Proud

Ibtihaj Muhammad narrates her story of growing up as a black Muslim woman in the United States and becoming the first hijab-wearing American athlete. She is unflinching in her descriptions of a childhood without many role models--particularly in her chosen field of fencing. As narrator, Muhammad sounds like the young, optimistic woman she is; her choice to deliver her memoir makes us even more empathetic when we hear the ups and downs of her coming-of-age. We feel the sting of substitute teachers refusing to learn how to say her name, of missing out on slumber parties as a child, and of being told to find another sport besides fencing. M.R. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine

August 1, 2018

Muhammad (U.S. Olympics bronze medalist), with writer Tharps (Same Family, Different Colors), describes her journey to becoming a champion fencer in this memoir that aims to challenge the stereotypes and prejudices she encounters every day. From an early age, the author was aware that her African American heritage and her Muslim faith differentiated her from her peers; she had to cope with slights, aggressive behavior, and prejudice. After her mother observed that fencers compete in modest dress appropriate for an observant Muslim, Muhammad took up the sport and quickly showed aptitude. She credits her parents' influence, her own hard work, and the support of the minority fencing community for her championship record. She is not shy about admitting her failures, faults, and setbacks, and recounts a low period when she quit the sport then truly dedicated herself to it and became a champion, role model, entrepreneur, and activist. This memoir culminates in her historic performance at the 2016 Rio Olympics when she became the first American woman to compete in hijab. VERDICT Highly recommended for readers interested in sports or inspirational memoirs.--Rebekah Kati, Univ. of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

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