Title: The Incredible Life of Mary Kom
Author: Swayam Ganguly
Genre: Non-fiction Biography
Illustrations: Mohit Suneja
Publisher: Talking Cub (An Imprint of Speaking Tiger Books)
Length:124 pages
Type: Paperback
Recommended Age Group: 9 to 12 years
Rating: ★★★★★
‘The Incredible Life of Mary Kom’ is an inspiring biography about Mary Kom, one of India’s most famous athletes. The book tells the story of her journey from a small village in Manipur to becoming a world-famous boxer and an Olympic medallist. Here’s a brief review by my daughter 11-year-old daughter, Ayesha Khator (Class 6)
Plot Summary: The book starts with Mary Kom’s early life, showing the challenges, she faced growing up in a remote area with a few resources. It talks about her early love for sports, her determination to box despite what society expected, and the many obstacles she overcame to reach her dreams. The story is full of personal and professional moments that show her strong spirit and dedication.
Themes:
- Perseverance and Determination: Mary Kom’s story shows the power of never giving up. Her journey teaches us to stay committed to our goals, no matter how hard things get.
- Breaking Barriers: The book highlights how Mary Kom broke many barriers, both as a woman in a male-dominated sport and as an athlete from a marginalized community.
- Inspiration and Empowerment: Mary Kom’s life inspires many people, encouraging them to follow their passions and believe in themselves.
” I believe with all my heart that if you pursue your dream with all the zeal at your command, nothing is impossible. I dared to dream big in spite of my humble beginnings. I hope that my life is a proof to youngsters across India that it is possible to do more if they dare, if they have a will.”- Mary Kom
Writing Style: The author writes in a simple and engaging way, making the book easy to read for everyone. The story is well-paced, with a good mix of personal stories and professional achievements. The author has also added many amazing facts . The vivid descriptions and emotional storytelling help readers connect deeply with Mary Kom’s journey.
Here are some aspects that make this book special:
- Early Life and Challenges
The book delves into Mary Kom’s early life in Manipur, where she grew up in a humble family. It describes the hardships she faced, including financial struggles and societal expectations. Despite these challenges, Mary was determined to pursue her passion for sports. - Journey into Boxing
Mary’s entry into boxing is a significant part of the book. Inspired by the success of fellow Manipuri boxer Dingko Singh, she began training in secret due to her father’s initial disapproval. Her perseverance and talent soon shone through, leading her to national and international success. - Balancing Roles
One of the most inspiring aspects of Mary Kom’s story is how she balances her roles as a boxer, wife, and mother. The book provides insights into her personal life, showing how she manages to excel in her sport while taking care of her family. - Cultural Insights
The book offers a glimpse into the rich culture of Manipur and the unique traditions of Mary Kom’s community. This adds depth to her story.
Conclusion: ‘The Incredible Life of Mary Kom’ is a must-read for anyone looking for an inspiring story of determination. It celebrates the achievements of a remarkable athlete and reminds us of the strength of the human spirit. Whether you love sports or need some motivation, this book offers valuable lessons , amazing facts and a compelling story.
” I have the hunger still but unfortunately because of the age limit it is over.”
If you enjoyed this review and wish to order the book from Amazon (kbc affiliate link),
CLICK & BUY NOW!Disclaimer: Ayesha is part of the #kbcReviewerSquad and received this book as a review copy from the publisher via kbc.
