Happy Black History Month! Celebrate by reading a review of Game, Set, Match, Champion Arthur Ashe by Crystal Hubbard. Enjoy!
Pop quiz – What is the name of the largest tennis stadium in the world? The answer is Arthur Ashe stadium in New York City. This stadium can house over 23,000 spectators and is named in honor of tennis icon Arthur Robert Ashe. Since February is Black History Month, and our country celebrates the accomplishments of African-American citizens, Dr. Toughlove thought it would be an ideal time to put a spotlight on this revered athlete by reviewing Game, Set, Match, Champion Arthur Ashe. This book is written by Crystal Hubbard and illustrated by Kevin Belford.
Ashe was born in Richmond in 1943, and this book begins with Arthur, holding his racquet and playing tennis at a blacks-only tennis court during the early 1950s. A quick study, he distinguished himself as a capable tennis player with lots of potential. As time went by Arthur got the attention of serious tennis players and coaches. As he worked with different coaches and in different programs he had to adjust to their methods – but two things were consistent – his work ethic and his desire to improve.
Although Arthur died before the age of fifty, he accomplished a great deal during his life. He graduated first in his class and received a scholarship to UCLA (University of California). He also won the United States Tennis Championship, the Davis Cup Championship (a team event where countries from around the world compete against each other) and the Wimbledon Championship, which is a prestigious tournament that takes place in England. In every case he was excited about his accomplishments yet humble, and used mental strategies as well as athleticism to defeat his opponents.
While reading Game, Set, Match, Champion, Arthur Ashe, Dr. Toughlove was struck by how Crystal Hubbard was able to distill a lot of detail about Arthur’s life into manageable segments that children can understand. Even if the reader or listener is not knowledgeable about tennis, the words presented, with support from beautiful illustrations, serve to paint the picture of this extraordinary man who overcame many obstacles to become an international star and a role model for all. His tenacious spirit is something everyone can emulate, be inspired by, and learn from.
Game, Set, Match, Champion, Arthur Ashe is a wonderful book to read any time of year, but is particularly timely during Black History Month. While this book is recommended for children aged 7 and up. Dr. Toughlove believes that children and adults alike will enjoy reading it and learning about this remarkable man. Game, Set, Match, Champion Arthur Ashe is available at your local library.