Dickens & Rumi
Cover of COURAGE TO SOAR

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COURAGE TO SOAR

Simone Biles with Michelle Burford

The life of the gold-medal-studded Olympic gymnast. (Ages 13 to 17)

Ages 10+Source checked

Why this age? Accessible inspirational memoir, but it includes difficult family circumstances, parental substance misuse, foster care, abuse-related adversity, intense training, and discussion of discrimination and setbacks. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

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At a glance

Recommended age10+

Strongest cautions

  • Religious themes2/5
  • Alcohol or drugs1/5
  • Death of a character1/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience5/5
  • Good role models5/5
  • Positive messages5/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Mention of gymnastics brands and sponsors is expected given the subject.

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

No death themes present.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language, entirely appropriate.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Brief mentions of faith and religious upbringing.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

Family instability and challenging childhood experiences may feel emotionally upsetting, but there are no frightening creatures, horror scenes, or sustained danger.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

A parent's alcohol misuse is part of the family background, but use is not a central focus and is not glamorized or described in detail.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience5/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on the internal and physical courage to succeed.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Encourages pursuing personal talent and creative self-expression through sport.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Highlights the author's background and unique life journey.

Educational value3/5
Why this rating?

Provides insight into the world of elite sports and the experience of foster care.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Emphasis on the support of her family and coaches.

Positive messages5/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of perseverance, hard work, and achieving dreams.

Good role models5/5
Why this rating?

Simone Biles serves as a highly positive and inspirational role model.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. What beliefs or religious ideas appear in the story? How do they influence the characters?
  3. Which choice in COURAGE TO SOAR would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in COURAGE TO SOAR, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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