The true story of Fauja Singh, who broke world records to become the first one hundred-year-old to run a marathon, shares valuable lessons on the source of his grit, determination to overcome obstacles, and commitment to positive representation of the Sikh community.Every step forward is a victory.Fauja Singh was born determined. He was also born with legs that wouldn't allow him to play cricket with his friends or carry him to school miles from his village in Punjab. But that didn't stop him. Working on his family's farm, Fauja grew stronger to meet his own full potential.
He never stopped striving. At the age of 81, after a lifetime of making his body, mind, and heart stronger, Fauja decided to run his first marathon. He went on to break records all around the world and became the first person over 100 to complete the grueling long-distance race.
With exuberant text by Simran Jeet Singh and exhilarating illustrations by Baljinder Kaur, the true story of Fauja Singh reminds us that it's both where we start and how we finish that make our journeys unforgettable.
On sale: August 25, 2020
Age: 4-8 years
Grade: Preschool - 3
Page count: 48 Pages
ISBN: 9780525555094
Reading level: Lexile: AD730L | Fountas/Pinnell: P
Simran Jeet Singh loves sports and signed up for his first marathon after being inspired by Fauja Singh -- and like Fauja, he hasn't stopped running since. Simran is an activist, writer, and scholar who believes deeply in the divine goodness of all people. He was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, and now lives in New York City with his wife and two daughters.
Baljinder Kaur is an illustrator and storyteller. She enjoys observing, exploring, and expressing the simple joys and often seemingly ordinary details of life around her through mixed media. FAUJA SINGH KEEPS GOING is her first trade picture book. Learn more about her work at www.baljinderkaur.com.
PRAISE FOR FAUJA SINGH KEEPS GOINGAn NPR Best Book of 2020
A New York Public Library Best Book of 2020
A Chicago Public Library Best Informational Book for Younger Readers of 2020
A 2021 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List pick
A University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education Best Book for Young Readers 2020
A Rhode Island Children's Book Award Nominee 2022
A 2021-2022 VA READS Picture Book Winner
International Literacy Association Notable Book for a Global Society 2021
"Uplifting." --
Publishers Weekly, starred review
"[An] engaging picture book... with an inspirational message and strong cultural content." --
School Library Journal
"A powerful and utterly unique biography about a modern hero of great character and perseverance through disability, adversity, bigotry, and personal loss." --
Booklist
"An inspirational story about persevering in the face of hardship." -
Kirkus Reviews
