The Greatest

LoveReading4Kids Says

Interest Age Teen Reading Age 7+

Muhammed Ali’s life story provides daily inspiration for a young boy, also called Ali, who takes on the bigger lad who bullies him. The setting for their confrontation is the boxing ring. Barrington Stoke novels are written and produced specifically with reluctant and dyslexic readers in mind and this will be a real page turner for all.

Gibbons uses short sentences to tell the story, each one of which directly moves the story on, with no extraneous details. The blow by blow account of young Ali’s fight is gripping, while timelines of Muhammed Ali’s fights intersperse chapters, breaking up the text but also throwing more light on what is happening in the ring. A really effective piece of writing for young readers, particularly boys. 

Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+

Reviewed by Andrea Reece
Andrea Reece has spent almost her entire working life in children’s books, first as publisher, latterly as consultant, project manager and critic.
More reviews by Andrea Reece

About The Greatest

Great sporting title, packed with facts about Muhammad Ali. When Ali's bike is stolen by a local bully, he turns to the story of Muhammad Ali for inspiration - the greatest boxer of all time, inspiring the fight of Ali's young life. A brilliant read about standing up to bullies and overcoming the odds. From firm favourite Alan Gibbons.

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