A Sporting Chance: How Ludwig Guttmann Created the Paralympic Games
Guides by Deb – Keeping your books in the hearts of young readers and in the hands of those who care for them.
A Sporting Chance: How Ludwig Guttmann Created the Paralympic Games
Author: Lori Alexander
ISBN: 978-1328580795
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers; Illustrated edition
Summary: Telling the inspiring human story behind the creation of the Paralympics, this young readers biography artfully combines archival photos, full-color illustrations, and a riveting narrative to honor the life of Ludwig Guttmann, whose work profoundly changed so many lives.
Dedicating his life to helping patients labeled “incurables,” Ludwig Guttmann fought for the rights of paraplegics to live a full life. The young doctor believed—and eventually proved—that physical movement is key to healing, a discovery that led him to create the first Paralympic Games.
Told with moving text and lively illustrations, and featuring the life stories of athletes from the Paralympic Games Ludwig helped create, this story of the man who saved lives through sports will inspire readers of all backgrounds.
Key Teaching Value: Links the science of healing to the ethics of equity—showing how movement, hope, and advocacy transform “incurables” into athletes and citizens with full, vibrant lives.
Educator Guide Content Summary: Students trace Guttmann’s journey from WWI volunteer to founder of the Paralympic Games, then blend science and history: spinal cord structure/modeling (NGSS), a chronology of key events, and a social-justice argument builder. Discussion prompts center dignity, resilience, and inclusion; tasks integrate research, explanatory writing, and evidence-based claims.
