Born to Run

by Cathy Freeman
Illustrated by Charmaine Ledden-Lewis
Published by Penguin Books
ISBN 9781761043802

A wonderfully inspirational book for ages 6+ but Cathy Freeman's story could be for any age.

Cathy Freeman writes the her life story from growing up as a happy child in Queensland with her family, enjoying barbecues, running on the sand as she has fun running with her brothers. She also speaks of the sadness in their lives, of her eldest sister Anne-Marie, who had cerebral palsy and how running and striving to achieve her goals was inspired in part by her beloved sister.

Although this is a younger child's book we couldn't put it down, as we learned of Cathy's story, trials and tribulations. Do you know that when she won one of her first races and was not given the winner's medal because of racism? Read what she did to push through to achieve her childhood reams of becoming a gold medal Olympian.

This biographical picture book should be given to all children to help them achieve their goals whatever their goals are, sport, academic or artistic. Reading this story, with the loving support of her family which includes her timeline, it's no wonder Cathy Freeman has achieved what she set out to do and continues to inspire others.

This book will make a worthwhile gift.