Tell me something I can’t do. and I will do it or die trying. That’s what happens when you are born without legs. People immediately doubt you. Or they look at you funny. Or as less than human. But I’ve never seen myself as disabled. I’m just lower to the ground

Zion Clark

This inspiring book is meant to motivate 8-10 year olds, especially those that feel different from others. Images of Zion as a toddler all the way to an adult are truly amazing at what he has accomplished. It begins with his life story then the pictures take over. Motivational quotes from both Zion and others capture each moment.

The content is like a picture book for 8-12 year-olds. Many of the quotes and images would make a great poster. At just 32 pages the message to never give up is loud and clear. Here’s the official background of the book:

This stunning photographic essay showcases Zion Clark’s ferocious athleticism and undaunted spirit. Cowritten by New York Times best-selling journalist James S. Hirsch, this book features striking, visually arresting images and an approachable and engaging text, including pieces of advice that have motivated Zion toward excellence and passages from Zion himself. Explore Zion’s journey from a childhood lost in the foster care system to his hard-fought rise as a high school wrestler to his current rigorous training to prepare as an elite athlete on the world stage. Included are a biography and a note from Zion.

Zion Unmatched would be the perfect book for a table top at home or in the classroom. Just seeing the cover encourages anyone walking by to take a look. I hope for a sequel that would give more details on Zion’s training regiment and delve deeper into the events in his life. For now though you can be inspired by what this volume offers.

ABOUT ZION

Zion’s herculean efforts hadn’t gone unnoticed as a Hollywood producer documented his journey during senior year. The film “Zion” garnered critical acclaim at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival (2018) and global media exposure (it’s currently available on Netflix).

In addition to his brutal training/practice regimen, Zion stays busy as a motivational speaker.   

The moral of Zion’s inspirational story is that things don’t always go smoothly in life…but in order to succeed, you must adapt to your individual circumstances. 

Priding himself in hard work, Zion offers that there are no excuses…or shortcuts!
It’s all about faith, passion, and perseverance. 
Zion urges others to “Be Greater Than” > …the obstacles you face.  

YOU, and only YOU are in control of your destiny!

(For more visit Zion’s WEB SITE)

TIME IS RUNNING OUT TO ENTER MY 5 BOOK PAIR GIVEAWAY. YOU CAN FIND THE DETAILS HERE!

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Blogging about middle grade books or authors next week? Join the celebration.

All you have to do is blog about a middle grade book on a Monday (contests, author interviews, or anything middle grade related also count). Email me the title of the book or feature and a link to your blog at gpcolo[at]gmail[dot]com

Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book or author you’re featuring) You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for the coming Monday.

Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)

*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.