Breaking Through: Heroes in Canadian Women's Sport

by Sue Irwin

This book highlights the achievements of Canadian women sports stars -- the role models of today's young female athletes. They fought for the right to compete in sports traditionally dominated by men and proved that women's sports are just as competitive and exciting to watch as men's. Spanning decades, Breaking Through focuses on seven sports and the women who made them their own, including well-known legends such as soccer player Christine Sinclair, who brought women's soccer in Canada into the limelight, and hockey player Hayley Wickenheiser, the longest-serving member of Canada's National team and five-time Olympic medalist. Readers will also see basketball, bobsleigh and rugby represented and learn the stories of less well-known athletes such as Indigenous cross-country skiers Sharon Anne and Shirley Firth, who faced down prejudice, and Carol Huynh, who brought home Canada's first Olympic gold medal in women's wrestling.

144 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 4, 2018

About the author

SUE IRWIN is a children’s author, educator, and presenter. Her writing has appeared in Clubhouse Jr, AppleSeeds, and Highlights for Children magazines, and Reading A-Z. Her two middle grade nonfiction books have received top awards from the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario, been named as Canadian Children’s Book Centre “Best Books for Kids and Teens” selections, included as “Recommended Reads” on the TD Summer Reading Club list, and shortlisted for the prestigious “Silver Birch Award” — part of Canada’s largest recreational reading program, where winners are selected by the children themselves.

Sue loves to visit children and their educators in school and library settings, and to join in on the fun with parents, educators, and librarians at children’s book conferences and literary festivals.

Reviews

[Moona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breaking Through is a powerful and inspiring read that celebrates the achievements of Canadian women in sports. The book introduces readers to athletes who not only excelled in their fields but also broke barriers in traditionally male-dominated sports. From household names like Christine Sinclair and Hayley Wickenheiser to lesser-known pioneers like Sharon Anne and Shirley Firth, each story showcases courage, perseverance, and dedication. Sue Irwin does a great job presenting their journeys in a clear and accessible way, making this a great book for young readers, especially girls interested in sports. It's not just about winning medals—it’s about changing the game. A meaningful read that highlights the importance of equality, representation, and resilience in sport.

[Mary King · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick easy read!