 
Bright Path: Young Jim Thorpe
Average Rating: 4.0 Total Reviews: 2
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 On: 2008-03-12
In this childrens book awash in soft, delicate colors on every page, the life of the worlds greatest athlete of his time, Jim Thorpe, is unfolded.
Beginning on his parents Oklahoma farm, it tells of Bright Paths (Jims 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 mans way, and it was during his later school years that Jims natural athletic talent was discovered.
The book continues with Jims 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 authors note in the back of book, Don Brown retells Thorpes 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.
On: 2006-12-02
Author/Illustrator Don Brown captures the life of Native American athlete Jim Thorpe. You cant help but smile as Jim thanks the King of Sweden for declaring him the Worlds Greatest Athlete in the Olympic Games in 1912. A drawback is Browns depiction of faces that portray the eyes as slits. This results in the characters appearing Asian. The Authors Note tells the sad story of Jims confiscated medals and their return many years after his death.
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