The only thing keeping Unbeatable Betty: Betty Robinson, the First Female Olympic Track Field Gold Medalist by Allison Crotzer Kimmel from being a 5 is that it felt a little unorganized in places. However, the author has done an amazing job of telling us the story of a woman who is little known in the sports world; even though Betty Robison was literally the first woman to accomplish winning a gold medal in her sport.
I was not always feeling that the “big picture” was there and did not feel the story was “complete” after reading. However, the afterwards did fill in a few spots that were missing, but you know there is still more. Therefore, this introduction was the perfect book to get me interested in wanting more and I am not a track and field or sports fan. The biggest part of the book I liked is the fact this is not your usual person. It is great to learn about the woman and men who came after Robinson, the ones who broke other records and barriers (not only was Robinson able to win gold, she showed that woman were “tough enough” to do the sport), but to see the first, the one that paved the way is a nice treat. To see all she had to overcome (biases, lack of support in the sports world, surviving a plane crash) is inspirational. Robinson should be taught as American history, not just as sports or women’s history.
This longer picture book has Joanie Stone illustrations. They are comfortable, detailed and you can see the action along with the text. They are colored in a way that is not harsh, allowing you to enjoy them and the story. You should stop and look at them, taking your time. Therefore, this book is not for the child who is not apt to sit for a long read. Ages five and up might be the best audience. However, older children will enjoy, too.