Kristi Yamaguchi

ANNOTATION

Simple text describes the sport of gymnastics and how certain stunts are performed.

FROM THE CRITICS

Children's Literature - Amy S. Hansen

In easy, one and two syllable language, Klingel describes the basics of gymnastics for the emergent reader. Like the others in the "Wonder Books Nonfiction Readers" series, Klingel explains the logistics—"There are different pieces of equipment to use. Girls perform on uneven bars, the vault, the balance beam and the floor." In this book she does explain the basics of gymnastics performance, with each move showing strength and balance, as well as grace. However, unlike others in the series, she takes the opportunity to describe some of the excitement of the sport—"Gymnasts also learn jumps and leaps. Some gymnasts leap so well, it looks like flying." I would have liked more description of the joy of the sport, more answers as to what it feels like to be on a balance beam, or using the rings takes practice, but she does start to reach for those answers, and the book's strong, color photos of children gymnasts are very engaging. Back matter includes an index, a list of more sources and a letter to parents describing the series. 2003, The Child's World, Ages 4 to 8.

School Library Journal