Proud (Young Readers Edition)

The inspiring all-American story of faith, family, hard work, and perseverance by Olympic fencer, activist, and Time"100 Most Influential People" honoree Ibtihaj MuhammadAt the 2016 Rio Olympics, Ibtihaj Muhammad smashed barriers as the first American to compete wearing hijab and made history as the first Muslim-American woman to medal. But it wasn't an easy road--in a sport most popular among wealthy white people, Ibtihaj often felt out of place. Ibtihaj was fast, hardworking and devoted to her faith but rivals and teammates (as well as coaches and officials) pointed out her differences, insisting she would never succeed. Yet Ibtihaj powered on. Her inspiring journey from a young outsider to an Olympic hero is a relatable, memorable and uniquely American tale of hard work, determination and self-reliance.

Praise for Proud (Young Readers Edition): A New York Public Library Best Book of 2018"Engaging...Muhammad's ability to face down multiple challenges will doubtless be inspiring to young readers."--The Washington Post, * "eye-opening...[Ibtihaj] Muhammad's story is an inspiring one that will encourage readers to question what it means to be American."--Booklist, starred review, * "Fencer and Olympic medalist Muhammad pens an eminently readable account of her childhood through her win at the 2016 Rio Olympics in this must-have memoir."--School Library Journal, starred review, * "Readers who are already fans of [Ibtihaj] Muhammad will love her even more, and all readers will gain much inspiration from this heartfelt memoir of a true American hero. Like Muhammad herself, this book is a timely gift to us all."--Kirkus Reviews, starred review, "compulsively readable and highly relatable." --VOYA

Ibtihaj Muhammad is a fencer and the first Muslim American woman in hijab to compete for the United States in the Olympic Games. She is also the first female Muslim American to medal at the Olympic Games, winning bronze in the women's sabre team event. Named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People in the world, she serves as a sports ambassador for the US State Department, cofounded Athletes for Impact and her clothing company Louella and inspired the first hijabi Barbie in her likeness. Ibtihaj invites you to visit her online at ibtihajmuhammad.com.