Bright Path – Young Jim Thorpe

by: Don Brown

Published by: Square Fish Books

Reviewed by Diane Snyder

In this children’s book awash in soft, delicate colors on every page, the life of the world’s greatest athlete of his time, Jim Thorpe, is unfolded.

Beginning on his parents’ Oklahoma farm, it tells of Bright Path’s (Jim’s Indian name) young life with his siblings, and continues through his unhappy school years. Jim was sent to boarding school for Indians to learn to live the white man’s way, and it was during his later school years that Jim’s natural athletic talent was discovered.

The book continues with Jim’s amazing feats at the 5th Olympic Games in Sweden in 1912 where he won two gold medals, one in the pentathlon and one in the decathlon, setting records that were not exceeded for twenty years.

In his author’s note in the back of book, Don Brown retells Thorpe’s life, giving more detail about his family and sports careers after the Olympics. There are also references, a short bibliography and photographs of Jim Thorpe.

Don Brown has written and illustrated many biographies for children. Bright Path is for pre-school children to third grade but will be enjoyed by older children, and with the biography added in the back, adults will also appreciate reading this tribute to Jim Thorpe.

Armchair Interviews says: Well-told story of a wonderful athlete.

Author’s Web page: http://www.BooksByBrown.com