The totally awesome world of Caitlin Clark Learn all there is to know about your favorite all-star

This entry in the Totally Awesome World series (2 titles) follows the seemingly meteoric rise of WNBA All-Star Caitlin Clark. Clark's trajectory was an impressive feat: she was followed from a young age by college recruiters, earned top recognition in NCAA collegiate basketball, and was drafted in her final year into the WNBA. The book is comprehensive in its coverage, with each chapter covering a differentiated part of Clark's basketball career, with thoughtful interjections on the rising popularity of women's sports, sexism in professional athletics, and guidance on the machinations of basketball for those unfamiliar with the sport. Color photographs of multiple points in Clark's life (mostly action shots from games) decorate the pages, as well as photos and graphics relevant to the content. Sidebars present relevant and hot topics in Clark's career, including everything from trash talk to Title IX. This multifaceted review of Clark's rise to fame and lasting impact on women's sports is an excellent piece to hand to any trailblazer aficionado or young athlete looking for a hardworking role model.

A worshipful profile of the sensational young hoops icon. Weiss notes that Caitlin Clark's intensity sometimes results in her losing her temper; she also touches on the racial double standard that some have claimed to see in her mega-celebrity. Still, the author dwells much more on the positive, from her subject's strong work ethic, her willingness to be a team player, and her already-spectacular achievements on the boards to her electrifying effect on the popularity of women's basketball. Clark played on boys' teams from age 5, declared her intention to play in the WNBA in third grade, and went on to become NCAA Division 1 basketball's highest scorer of any sex--her example may daunt fans hoping to follow directly in her footsteps. Still, for those inspired to try, the author fills readers in on basic basketball skills and strategies that are applicable at any level of play. She also offers a sprinkling of biographical details and exciting game summaries (up to the July 2024 WNBA All Star Game), enhanced by many big, dramatic action photos. Thumbnail introductions to other women who have starred at the collegiate, Olympic, and professional levels widen the general angle of view, as do closing lists of WNBA champs and MVPs. Buoyant glimpses of a still-rising star. (photo credits)(Biography. 9-11) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.