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“This inspiring early chapter book delves into the life and achievements of Naomi Osaka, a remarkable Japanese professional tennis player. …Her challenges and triumphs are accessibly presented in this biography, including her competitiveness, passion for tennis, and attention to self-care. …It also addresses Osaka’s use of her status to support social justice issues, realistically addressing her experiences with racial justice and mental health. Though Osaka is young and still shaping her identity, her story is one of resilience and determination.”

– School Library Journal

She Persisted: Naomi Osaka

Written by Kekla Magoon and Chelsea Clinton
Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint
Published by Philomel Books

Naomi Osaka grew up in Japan and the US, with one foot in each place. But wherever she was, she loved to play tennis—and she worked hard at it too, always practicing and improving. Many people doubted that she would make it as a professional player, but she persisted and showed the world that she is a champion. Her talent on the court and her activism for racial justice and mental health causes off it have made Naomi an inspiration to fans everywhere.

In this chapter book biography by NAACP Image Award-winning author and Coretta Scott King Honor recipient Kekla Magoon, readers learn about the amazing life of Naomi Osaka—and how she persisted.

Complete with an introduction from Chelsea Clinton, black-and-white illustrations throughout, and a list of ways that readers can follow in Naomi Osaka’s footsteps and make a difference! A perfect choice for kids who love learning and teachers who want to bring inspiring women into their curriculum.

Primary ISBN: 9780593623534
Publication Date: July 2024
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook, eBook
Chapter Book, Age 06 or older

Community Represented: ,

Themes: , , , , , ,

Setting: Japan, United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

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