The Quickest Kid in Clarksville

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The Quickest Kid in Clarksville was written by Pat Zietlow Miller and illustrated by Frank Morrison. Pat started out as a newspaper reporter and wrote about everything from dartball and deer-hunting to diets and decoupage. Then, she joined an insurance company and edited its newsletter and magazine. This hardcover book is 40 pages long and first time published in 2016 by Chronicle Books [1]   

Summary

The story tells about Alta who runs fast, just like her idol Wilma Rudolph, an African American sprinter who grew up in Alta’s hometown of Clarksville, Tennessee, and won three Olympic gold medals. But when a new girl named Charmaine with fancy running shoes moves to town, Alta wonders if her own holey-sole shoes will be her downfall. The two compete to see who can run fastest and end up mad at each other. The girls make up and become friends when they have to work together to carry a banner to a parade to honor Wilma. [2]

Pros

Kirkus wrote the review about this book. As described on the blod it's said that Miller's girl-power story also tucks in some nice observations on friendship. Morrison's watercolor illustrations are vibrant and evocative, capturing the thrill and pride in this African-American community for its famous daughter. A helpful author's note adds context. [3]

Abigail Brown gave a very detail opinion about this book, she explained this book tells the story of a young girl and her ability to run fast, just like African American sprinter Wilma Rudolph. It is a great story that touches on the many ideas of friendship, sportsmanship, perseverance, and dissimilarity. The artwork in this picture book is very bright and quite beautiful. The full bleed, double page spread catches the readers eye and keeps one engaged. The authors note tells the wonderful story of Wilma Rudolph leaving the book to be a wonderful way to introduce Rudolph to your children. This book is suitable for children primarily in the later ages of elementary school. There are many different themes in this book, therefore, it can be used to introduce many different subjects. This book can be used in a lesson about sportsmanship, diversity, friendship, and Wilma Rudolph. There are many children who may relate to this book and many students who can use this book to relate to their peers. [4] 

References