In the Running with Ntando Mahlangu

October 1, 2020
Grades 1-4 The Paralympic Games tend to be overshadowed by the Olympics, but superstars like teenage track phenomena Mahlangu are helping raise public interest. This straightforward biography, part of the Teen Strong series (4 titles), shares how Mahlangu was born in South Africa in 2002 with severe birth defects. The charity Jumping Kids got Mahlangu prosthetic legs when he was 10; at 14, he won his first Paralympian silver medal. Since then, he's garnered international acclaim, set records, and become an online celebrity for his activism. The upbeat text comes with full-color photos of Paralympians in action, sidebars with stats, generous definitions of new vocabulary, profiles of other athletes, activities, information on blade prosthetics, and other useful back matter. This inspiring account has multiple applications (diversity, sports, activism) and makes for an engaging read.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)

November 1, 2020

Gr 5-8-This series details the lives of teen movers and shakers, such as South African paralympic athlete Ntando Mahlangu. Each title focuses on how these teenagers have made a difference in the world by spotlighting their backgrounds and fields of interests. Graphs and additional information help readers learn more about their areas of activism. For example, Behind the Scenes with Marsai Martin features a chart explaining the lack of diversity on television. A time line, a quiz, and a research activity are included, as well as a page spotlighting other teens working in their fields. There are appealing graphics and full-page photographs throughout, and glossary words are located at the bottom of each page for easy reference. VERDICT Written at a third-grade reading level, these biographies centering inspiring teens are jam-packed with information and highlight the importance of activism.

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.