Colin Kaepernick: Athletes Who Made a Difference

Athletes Who Made a Difference

by Blake Hoena, Sam LeDoyen (Illustrations)

This graphic biography shows readers the moments that have defined Colin Kaepernick’s life as a quarterback and an activist. His talent and determination made him a college football success and brought him to the National Football League. As a quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, he led his team to multiple playoffs and even competed in the Super Bowl. When outrage over violence against African Americans became a national movement, Kaepernick joined the protests. His decision cost him his career in football, but he gained a voice heard worldwide.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Sports, Biography

32 pages, Paperback

Published August 4, 2020

About the author

Blake A. Hoena grew up in central Wisconsin, where, in his youth, he wrote stories about robots conquering the Moon and trolls lumbering around in the woods behind his parents house, and the fact that the trolls were hunting for little boys had nothing to do with Blake’s pesky brothers. Later, he moved to Minnesota to pursue a Masters of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing from Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Since graduating, Blake has written more than thirty books for children, including retellings of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and the Perseus and Medusa myth. Most recently, he’s working on a series of graphic novels about two space alien brothers, Eek and Ack, who are determined to conquer our big blue home.

--from the author's website

Reviews

[The Thursday Skunk · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s really interesting to read books about political events that you live through. I grew up in a remember when the take a knee movement happened. I was told it was unpatriotic, and he was ignorant of the bigger issues at play. But looking back It’s kind of a beautiful moment in NFL history where you’re able to practice you’re your right to protest, and I think it’s a great thing. I didn’t realize he was adopted too. I do think it’s interesting that he was kind of blacklisted from playing in the NFL after 2017 and that he got a settlement for it. I think the right to protest is a great. This book changed my perspective on him.

[Trevor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Colin Kaepernick's story is so important, of course. But the art in this book is terrible. I just don't understand how art this poor ever makes it past the editors. Even so, I still think this book is worth getting into kids' hands. And I will just hope that someday a graphic novel artist with some real skill will make another graphic memoir for this amazing athlete.

[Gabriel Weaver · Rating 3 out of 5]

A wonderful overview of Kaepernick's life. I think that the book was appropriately objective.

[wildct2003 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good for basic info