"Speed to Glory" Review

About the Book:

He conquered the thing that nearly took his life.

At five years old, Cullen Jones nearly drowned. While some people might stay away from water after that, Jones conquered his fear when his mother enrolled him in a swimming class. Not only did he learn to swim, he quickly found that he was a good swimmer... and would become one of the world's best. Discover how faith, courage, and hard work led Jones to win an Olympic gold medal and set a new world record in his event. Find out what can happen when you overcome fear and strive to become all God calls you to be. Includes a personal note from Cullen Jones.


My Take:

I love the Olympics, especially the Summer Games. I have always enjoyed them, but during the 2008 Games in Beijing, I spent day after day watching them while I was pregnant with my daughter (and very ill).

I remember Cullen Jones from the 4x100 Freestyle relay, in which the USA won the gold medal. I actually accidentally requested this title from Netgalley, but when I realized what it was about, I decided to read it and review it anyway.

This is a biography written for kids ages 9 and up, so it was easy to read, but it was also informative. I especially liked learning how Cullen has established his Make a Splash organization to bring swim lessons to kids who might not have the opportunity to learn to swim.

I enjoyed learning about Cullen's path to swimming, but I thought the faith aspect of the book lacked depth.

This biography series from Zonderkidz is a great opportunity for kids to learn more about their favorite athletes and others who are in the spotlight.

And I will continue to cheer on the USA throughout all of the Olympics to come!

I will give Speed to Glory by Natalie Davis Miller ... 3 BookWorms.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Zonderkidz and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this is accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."