Author: Kathleen Krull

Illustrator: David Diaz

Published: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2000

Overview: When Wilma Rudolph was young, her left leg was paralyzed due to polio. Everyone told her that she wouldn’t be able to walk again, but she proved them wrong and ran in the Olympics. Readers learn about the perseverance and determination of women in their illness/disability. The story is educational in talking about the historical context and the individual’s struggles. The illustrations are engaging with the illustrator’s use in bold watercolor and acrylic painting grabbing the reader’s attention. Wilma’s journey is motivating, inspiring readers that they can do anything they set their minds to.

Intended Reader: Great for readers who are interested in athletes and a story of overcoming obstacles. A good resource that shows that people with a disability or illness can achieve anything they set their mind to. Grades 1-5.

Resources:

Lesson Plan for Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s Fastest Woman (downloadable file)

Reviews of Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s Fastest Woman from Goodreads