Who Was: Jesse Owens?

Who Was Jesse Owens

If you're looking to introduce your young learners to a true hero and an inspiring figure in sports history, "Who Was Jesse Owens?" by James Buckley Jr. is a fantastic choice. This book is part of the wildly popular "Who Was?" series, which has a knack for bringing historical figures to life in a way that's both educational and engaging for primary school children.

So, who was Jesse Owens? Well, he was an African-American track and field athlete who made waves during the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Despite facing racial discrimination and growing up during the Great Depression, Owens shattered records and won four gold medals, making him a symbol of triumph over adversity. His story is not just about his incredible athletic achievements, but also about his resilience and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.

James Buckley Jr. does a splendid job of capturing Owens' inspiring journey in a way that's accessible and enjoyable for younger readers. The book is filled with illustrations and fun facts that keep kids hooked while subtly imparting important lessons about perseverance, equality, and the power of dreams. Whether you're a teacher looking for a captivating read-aloud or a parent seeking a bedtime story with substance, "Who Was Jesse Owens?" is a winner on all fronts. So, grab a copy and let your little ones dive into the remarkable world of Jesse Owens – they might just come away with a newfound appreciation for history and a spark of inspiration for their own dreams!

Author: James Buckley Jr.

James is a prolific author known for his extensive contributions to children's non-fiction literature, particularly in the field of sports and biographies. Buckley is known as "America's top author of sports books for young readers". He has written numerous books on various sports including baseball, football, soccer, and the Olympics. His annual "Scholastic Year in Sports" is particularly popular.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group
  • Format: Paperback
  • Print length: 112 pages
  • Dimensions: 13.49 x 0.64 x 19.38 cm
  • Reading age: 8 - 12 years old
  • Publication date: 11 Aug. 2015
  • ISBN: 978-0448483078

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How can "Who Was Jesse Owens?" help in teaching this KS2 "Olympics" topic?

Author: James Buckley

"Who Was Jesse Owens?" serves as an excellent resource for teaching the KS2 "Olympics" topic by providing a rich narrative about one of the most significant athletes in Olympic history. Here are several ways this book can enhance the learning experience:

Historical Context: Understanding Racial Dynamics: The book details Jesse Owens's experiences as an African-American athlete during a time of racial segregation and discrimination, particularly in the context of the 1936 Berlin Olympics. This can facilitate discussions about race, equality, and social justice, helping students understand the broader societal issues surrounding the Olympics and sports in general.

Inspirational Story: Overcoming Adversity: Jesse Owens's journey from humble beginnings to Olympic glory is a powerful story of perseverance and determination. His achievements—winning four gold medals at the Berlin Olympics—can inspire students to overcome their own challenges and pursue their dreams.

Engaging Learning Activities: Interactive Lessons: Teachers can use the book to create engaging lessons that include mapping exercises (locating Berlin on a map), discussions about the significance of the 1936 Olympics, and activities centered around Olympic values such as excellence, friendship, and respect.

Connection to Olympic Values: Exploring Olympic Ideals: The narrative can help students explore key Olympic values and how they relate to Jesse Owens's legacy. Discussions can include how his success challenged Hitler's ideology of Aryan superiority, making it a pivotal moment in Olympic history.

Supplementary Resources: Complementary Literature: "Who Was Jesse Owens?" can be paired with other books about Olympic history and athletes, enriching students' understanding of the Olympics' cultural significance and its impact on society over time.

In summary, "Who Was Jesse Owens?" not only provides a captivating biography but also serves as a versatile educational tool that fosters critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for the history of the Olympics.

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