DREAM BIG A True Story of Courage and Determination by Dave McGillivray, race director of the Boston Marathon, is an autobiographical picture book that captures Dave’s physical and mental struggle to realize his dream of being a successful athlete.
Too small to be the popular choice
for team sports and always picked last, he discovers running at the age of 12.
Encouraged by his beloved grandpa, Dave adds a mile to his run on every
birthday. At 17, with no training or experience, he sets his sights on
completing in the Boston Marathon, only to collapse at mile 18 and end up in a
hospital instead of the finish line. Dave puts his feelings of failure aside
and begins a serious training regimen, but more disappointments and challenges
await.
His grandpa dies just a couple of
months into training. Despite the loss, Dave perseveres, but when the big day
finally arrives, Dave wakes up sick. Determined to race in memory of his
grandpa, Dave soon falters and partway through mile 21 he fears he go another
step. Slumped on the sidewalk, he discovers he’s at his grandfather’s cemetery.
Memories of his grandpa inspire Dave as he struggles to his feet and finishes
the race…a failure no longer.
Young readers will discover an
inspiring story that carries a strong message of courage, perseverance, and the
ability to overcome challenges. Better yet is Dave’s closing remarks as he
explains that his dream of becoming an athlete was transformed into an opportunity to provide other athletes with the chance to realize their running goals by his willingness to explore alternate paths to success.
Award-winning artist, Ron Himler’s
illustrations create a lovely visual journey that serves the text well without
overpowering the narrative.
An illustrated map of the Boston
Marathon route and a final page of related activities completes the book.
Recommended for school and home
libraries.
