Perfect Match: The Story of Althea Gibson and Angela Buxton

by Lori Dubbin, Amanda Quartey (illustrator)

When Althea Gibson first dreamed of joining the big American tennis leagues, she was denied because she was Black. Angela Buxton dreamed of joining the best tennis clubs in Britain, but she was rejected because she was Jewish. When Angela heard that Althea was coming to Britain to compete, she skipped school to see the match. If Althea didn't let hatred stop her from playing the game she loved, Angela wouldn't either.


At the French Championships in 1956, Angela told Althea about her dream of winning Wimbledon with a doubles partner. To win as a team, they would have to stick to their strengths—together.

Genres: Sports, Picture Books, Friendship, Biography, Nonfiction, History, Jewish

32 pages, Hardcover

Published September 10, 2024

Reviews

[Jan]

As girls and teens, each girl just wanted to play the game she loved but was prevented by unfair rulings. When African American Althea Gibson broke through and was able to play in tournaments, she inspired British Jewess Angela Buxton to work even harder until she was able to represent her country on Tour. They became good friends and even became partners in tennis doubles. When they worked together and to their strengths, they were nearly unbeatable.
The illustrations by Amanda Quartey are fun, simple, brilliantly colorful, and delightful.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or your local public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Lerner Publishing Group/Kar-Ben Publishing ®via NetGalley. Thank you! Available Sept 10, 2024
#Althea Gibson #Angela Buxton #ProTennis @CBCBook #BlackHero #JewishHero #1950s

[Lisa Wiertel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for allowing me read an advance copy in exchange for a review.

I know of Althea Gibson but I had never heard of Angela Buxton and did not realize what they accomplished together. Gibson was denied entry into tennis clubs and associations due to her color. Across the water in England, Buxton was experiencing the same discrimination as she was Jewish. They eventually became friends and won the Wimbledon and French Open women's doubles championships. This would be a perfect book for Women's History Month!
Has a brief bio on each athlete at the end.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had not known before the story of how these two female tennis greats overcame discrimination (one was Black, the other Jewish) to win at Wimbledon. Incredibly inspiring for readers young and old!

[Noodlenuts Kids Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a time when misinformation and disinformation are not just easy to come by, but being actively pushed over social media, and doing far too good of a job creating rifts and distrust between communities worldwide, it feels more important than ever to share history with our kids from an early age.

And it feels particularly critical to share historical examples of vulnerable communities and their members showing up for each other, connecting, recognising their shared experiences.

"Perfect Match: The Story of Althea Gibson and Angela Buxton" (2024) is indeed "perfect" for this, an incredibly uplifting story of two dedicated talents, marginalised within their sport, who came together not only as friends, but to show the world why it was wrong in the way it had treated them.

Althea Gibson, despite her talents, was barred from competing in top-level American tennis tournaments because she was Black, and not welcome at the clubs hosting them. Angela was similarly refused access even to training facilities in England because she was Jewish.

But "Perfect Match" is the story of how these two persevered, first as individuals and then as a team, ultimately winning the women's doubles title at Wimbledon together in 1956.

And as a bonus, it is, as School Library Journal notes, "... short, simple, and easy to follow, making it suitable for younger audiences."

[Marta · Rating 5 out of 5]

This true story about two women who overcame prejudice makes the readers’ heart soar. If in the 1950s, these two women could be rejected from tennis clubs due to one’s color and the other’s religion, what hope would there ever be for their becoming champions? But despite the prejudice Althea Gibson encountered for being Black, and similar prejudice Angela Buxton encountered for being Jewish, they kept playing the game they loved. But friendship plays a part in this touching story, too. When Althea was chosen to represent the United States at an Asian tour, and Angela was chosen to represent the United Kingdom, they faced each other at a match in New Dehli. They had so much in common, they became fast friends. Althea and Angela practiced at doubles tennis, and they did become champions, winning the women’s doubles in Wimbledon, Angela’s dream come true! This is a positive, heartwarming story, and the writer keeps the reader turning pages. The illustrations make it extra attractive for young children. The back matter had more information and some photographs of the real Althea and Angela.

[Brooke - TheBrookeList · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perfect Match is told with a bit more focus on Angela Buxton, likely because the author was able to interview her in her later years. The story of Angela and Althea is unique for the 1950s and offers an uplifting and motivating historical view. We can focus on the hard, but this story focuses on the possible. At a time when it didn't make sense to see a black woman or a Jewish woman succeeding in tennis, these two built a strong friendship and played hard. The sort of heroes we should keep talking about!

Read as a nomination in the nonfiction book award category as a panelist for Children's and Young Adult Bloggers' Literary Awards (Cybils Awards)

While I think the story is great, the illustration style of blocky cartoons straddles too realistic, and perhaps not realistic enough. My children loved to read this story, but would not likely read it again and again. We did love the black and white photos in the backmatter and wish there'd even been a few more! I'd have loved a little more inside into Althea. We get a sense that her journey was hard, and she was successful, but didn't see a clear example of how she broke through.

[Danica is Booked · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️3.75 out of 5 stars.

Received for review: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: This book was extremely informative. I was aware of Althea Gibson, but I was not familiar with Angela Buxton. Althea was denied entry into tennis in the US because she was Black; Angela was denied entry in the UK because she was Jewish. I loved how the authors detailed their achievements, their friendship, and their hard work. I think this is an inspiring book that children (particularly those who love sports) will enjoy. This book chronicles the start of their careers, but mostly focuses on their partnership.

I thought the prose could have been written in a slightly more entertaining manner; however, I am still glad I read the book.

Pages: 32 pages

Reading age:6-9 years

Love,

Danica Page

[Mariana Ríos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book because I learned a lot. I've never heard of Angela Buxton or Althea Gibson, so getting to know about them was interesting for me. I liked the way in which Lori Dubbin wrote about the two characters side by side, because that allowed me to realize how similar their stories were.

I'm really inspired by what they were able to accomplish together in times in which they had to fight against prejudice. I'm glad that in spite of how hard it was for them, their love for the sport (tennis) kept them going until they achieved the highest honor, winning women's doubles in Wimbledon (1956).

I also enjoyed reading the back matter and looking at the black and white photographs of the athletes who inspired this story. I liked learning about the different sources that the author used for her research in preparing to write this book.

This book would be a great addition for homes, libraries and schools.

* I read an advance reader copy.

[Lori Keating · Rating 5 out of 5]

Althea Gibson and Angela Buxton were both trailblazers in the world of tennis. Althea, a talented African-American player, faced discrimination and segregation throughout her career. Angela, a Jewish player, also faced prejudice and anti-Semitism. Despite these challenges, both women persevered and rose to the top of their sport. Their friendship and partnership in doubles tennis showcased their incredible teamwork and complementary skills. Their ability to communicate and play off each other’s strengths made them a formidable force on the court, often resulting in victories. The illustrations in the picture book beautifully capture the joy and energy of their matches, with vibrant colors and playful depictions. This book not only teaches children about the remarkable achievements of Althea Gibson and Angela Buxton, but also highlights the power of friendship, perseverance, and embracing diversity. It is a must-have for any home or school library, inspiring readers of all ages.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although I was already familiar with Althea Gibson, the boundary-breaking African American tennis star, I wasn't aware of Angela Buxton, a British tennis player who faced discrimination because of her Jewish identity. This inspiring nonfiction picture book describes each woman's personal journey, highlights their friendship, and tells about their experience training for and winning doubles matches together.

This book is a wonderful story of perseverance and friendship, and it will appeal to kids who are interested in sports, women's history, and Civil Rights history. The author's note includes more details, along with some great historic photos, and I'm glad that I had the chance to read this uplifting true story.

I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Erika Dreifus · Rating 5 out of 5]

It seems that I've always known about tennis great Althea Gibson (1927-2003)—but I'd never heard of Angela Buxton (1934-2020). This lovely book begins with dual biographical portraits that converge in the mutually reinforcing friendship between the two players: one, a Black American (Gibson); the other, a Jewish Briton (Buxton). We see how this friendship evolved into the duo's historic doubles partnership (their wins include the 1956 Wimbledon women's doubles championship). There's history threaded here—including the racism and antisemitism that confronted these women—along with powerful messages about perseverance, recognizing and building on one's strengths, and friendship. Bright, beautiful illustrations, too.

[Aixa Perez-Prado · Rating 5 out of 5]

This touching and exciting story by Lori Dubbin tells a tale of friendship, persistence and grit. Two women who share similar goals are able to form a bond and work together despite their differences while meeting the pressures and challenges that they face in the process. Both young women are gifted athletes who love the game of tennis and who dare to dream big. The author has perfectly captured the similarities they share as well as highlighting the differences that made each experience their own. This book is a wonderful addition to any home or classroom that aims to both entertain and empower young women and men everywhere with real life examples illustrated in a fun and colorful style.

[Silvia López · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was able to read this story on an ARC. It is absolutely wonderful. While there are many excellent picture books about overcoming discrimination, this book addresses not only those obstacles faced by an African-American athlete but also by a Jewish athlete in the UK. The simple but gently flowing writing really brings out the support that the two women gave each other as well as their warm friendship. The book delivers on so many levels: sports, women, racism, teamwork. Young readers as well as parents and teachers will love this little-known story of triumph over adversity, and the back matter and photographs help deliver a whole package. Highly recommend it.

[Heather Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an outstanding double biography about one of the most fascinating and inspiring doubles tennis teams in tennis history! I'd never heard of either Althea Gibson or Angela Buxton before, but their story of resilience, determination, and kindness in the face of prejudice - as well as their obvious skill at playing the complicated game of tennis - made for an excellent read.

Lori Dubbin does an outstanding job of capturing Althea and Angela's friendship. The story covers many years as Angela sees Althea play and trains to become a better tennis player, but the pacing is perfect.

Recommended for schools, libraries, and anyone interested in sports, history, and friendship!

[Joyce Uglow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read the digital ARC of PERFECT MATH: The Story of Althea and Angela Buxton by Lori Dubbin. This book gives readers a wonderful chance to absorb the sad truth of real-life discrimination and exclusion. Books such as this one can make a difference in the world when adults lead open discussions with children. PERFECT MATCH is a book that shows kids that they, too, can accomplish their goals, overcome the odds, and fight for equality.

Pursue it! Althea and Angela did. This picture book biography is perfect for home schoolers, school counselors, classroom teachers, school librarians, and public librarians.

[Maritere Rodriguez Bellas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story that inspires perseverance, determination, friendship and hard work. At a time where the color of one’s skin and religion didn’t allow women to play tennis at the professional level, Althea Gibson and Angela Buxton were determined to play the sport that they loved. Beautifully written by the talented Lori Dubbin, Perfect Match teaches children the history behind two tennis players from different parts of the world and different backgrounds, how they met, formed a bond and what they endured to become tennis champions. Lovely and engaging illustrations by Amanda Quartey. This is a book that belongs in libraries everywhere!

[Becca McMurdie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This endearing story by Lori Dubbin, beautifully illustrated by Amanda Quartey, tells a unique story of friendship among women across several lines of difference. I found myself cheering for their friendship, for their love of the game, and for their big wins. This would be a great book for young athletes, especially girls, to cultivate teamwork and athleticism, but also for the K-2nd grade classroom. As an educator, there are many ELA, history and social studies lessons that can be taught with this book. Enjoy!

[Mary Helen Berg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved learning about these two history-making tennis players through Lori Dubbin’s very clear storytelling! Althea Gibson and Angela Buxton, were the first female Black and Jewish players to break through the all white sport, and their support for each other formed a partnership that couldn’t be beat! A wonderful story about perseverance and friendship, and a great addition to inspiring biographies of those who have fought for equality. Wonderful for classrooms, families, and sports lovers everywhere.

[Sandy Brehl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This offers insights to the systemic racism and anti-semitism throughout the mid-twentieth century and before, revealing the unfair restrictions placed on people of color and Jews. The parallels/reflections of such hurdles in the USA and in England make it clear that talent can overcome arbitrary obstacles. But should it have to?
No.
And in time those barriers fell, but the inspiring stories of two young women whose determination, outreach, and friendship won championships (and fans!) sets an important example.
it is well told and illustrated and will be enjoyed by many.

[Cynthia Mackey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read the digital ARC of this book. What an intriguing story of two tennis players from completely different backgrounds who became friends and persevered to play the game they both loved in spite of what seemed like insurmountable odds. This story will be great inspiration for so many children. It touches on themes of diversity, equality, history, and friendship. This book belongs in schools and libraries around the world.

[Suhasini Gupta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect Match: The Story of Althea Gibson and Angela Buxton, written by Lori Dubbin and illustrated by Amanda Quartey, is a wonderful story about the inspiring partnership between these two tennis players. Despite facing setbacks as Black and Jewish athletes, both pursued their dreams and won the Wimbledon doubles championship. This book beautifully highlights the power of friendship, teamwork, and the fight for equality.

[Paola Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect Match, written by Lori Dubbin, is an inspiring story about the friendship and challenges faced by tennis players Angela Buxton and Althea Gibson. It beautifully highlights their shared experiences in a world that often failed to see beyond skin color, religion, and culture, showing how their perseverance and resilience helped them rise above it all. A beautifully written story, highly recommended for schools and libraries.

[Carmen Gilbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story of two great athletes who were unable to reach their professional goals because of religious and racial reasons which existed during their times. Their friendship, courage and tenacity proved they could break through barriers which is a great message for your readers today.
An excellent job done by this author! Congratulations!

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a biography about someone I didn’t know about. In this case it’s two women. The first Althea was the first black woman to win Wimbledon, and the second also faced her own hurdles as a Jewish tennis player. These women took on Wimbledon and one. It led to a lifelong friendship and a story perfect for any kid that likes sports.

[Katherine Pogatshnik · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Perfect Match" by Lori Dubbin is an excellent portrayal of two extraordinary tennis players who both faced different versions of segregation. One inspired the other and both worked together to become champions.

[Martha Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

PB bio about Estee Ackerman, an 11 yo ping pong wiz who gave up a chance to play in a championship game because it was on Shabbat, but won the next year when it was on Monday. Nice multicultural friendship as two strong women face discrimination.

[Julie Carithers Overstreet · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great true story for all ages! This was very interesting!

[Rachel Funez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very inspirational story about two tennis players who beat the odds and became fast friends and champions. I really enjoyed it.

[Emmie R Werner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and inspiring story❤️

[Nichole · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing friendship!