The author of this story does an amazing job at capturing and portraying the powerful energy of Muhammad Ali while the illustrator brings the story to live with his detail oriented artwork. This story is a tribute to the life of the american hero boxer Muhammed Ali. The story is told in a rhyming, rap context which really illuminates the fighter and all he had to offer. The story shows Ali as a heavy weight boxer and also portrays the remarkable individual he outside of the boxing ring. This book is a great story for older children to read because Muhammed Ali is a great example of a role model. This book is also great for teachers because it can be looked at in a multicultural way. There are many cultural issues brought up in this book. The issues encountered provide a great way to start a discussion with students about cultural differences along with everyday issues Muhammad Ali encountered throughout his daily life. The book shares his journey with issues such as racism, refusing to fight in the Vietnam war, and ultimately his final battle with Parkinson's disease. This book sets a great example for school aged children. Teachers will enjoy this story because of the great meaning and value's that Muhammad Ali cherished. He is a remarkable human being who sets a great example for children. He is able to show children the importance of sports, energy, winning, determination, and respect.
Discussion Provoking Questions:
- Why do you think the author of this book chose to use rhyming words throughout this story?
- Do you think the rhyming verses helped you to visualize Muhammad Ali? If so, how did it help you to do so?
- What is one trait about Muhammad Ali that you respect most and why?
- Why is Muhammad Ali seen as a hero?
- Who is a modern day hero that compares to Muhammad Ali? How are they similar and how are they alike?
Motivational Activity for Students:
- After students read this book, ask them to think of three things or events that shaped them into the person they are today. After they have those three things or events, ask students to define those events and how it shaped them through a poem.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
This book and the activities provided definitely align with the Saint Leo Core Value of Respect. The Core Value of Respect is defined by Saint Leo University as "Animated in the spirit of Jesus Christ, we value all individuals’ unique talents, respect their dignity, and strive to foster their commitment to excellence in our work. Our community’s strength depends on the unity and diversity of our people, on the free exchange of ideas, and on learning, living, and working harmoniously". The actives provided encourage students to reflect on this core value and how to portray it in our everyday life as individuals and members of society. The activities based from this book reflect Muhammad Ali who demonstrated respect in every way he possibly could.
If you enjoyed this book there is a similar book written about Muhammad Ali's journey as person and champion written for younger readers, ages 4-8. Check it out!
- Muhammad Ali: Champion of the World written by Jonah Winter and illustrated by François Roca
***BOOK TRAILER***
Twelve Rounds to Glory: The Story of Muhammad Ali
Smith, C., Collier, B. (2007). Twelve rounds to glory: the story of muhammad ali. Caimbridge, MA: Candlewick Press
The GOAT. That's awesome you found a book about Ali that children can read and learn from.
ReplyDeleteMuhammad Ali is a hero because he stood against racism and classicism when it was an unpopular choice. He also neglected to go to War when the country United States at the time had treated him and his people so poorly.
ReplyDeleteActivities:
1. Ask students to write their own short poem about themselves. Have them rhyme what they like and what they think they are good or "The Greatest" at
2. Have the kids talk about who their hero is and why using rhymes.