Ash Barty: Champion (Ash Barty, HarperCollins)

Ash Barty hardly needs an introduction. She has captivated the world with her tennis skills, infectious personality and unwavering fair-mindedness since her first Women’s Tennis Association tour in 2011. Barty told her incredible story for the first time in the 2022 memoir My Dream Time: A memoir of tennis and teamwork (HarperCollins). Now, a young readers edition, Ash Barty: Champion, is set to inspire her youngest fans as it traces her journey from humble beginnings in Queensland to the world’s stage. This edition covers memorable moments such as Barty’s Wimbledon win, discovering her family heritage, and her final match at the 2022 Australian Open. It also explores more widely relatable experiences, including body image issues, juggling school and tennis—training or matches seven days a week—and dealing with homesickness as a child. At one point, she claims, ‘I wish I knew then what I know now’ about bravery being something you can learn, and you get the sense that through the book she genuinely wishes to encourage kids who may be walking a similar path to her own in childhood. Young minds will be captivated by Barty’s friendly and engaging language, and motivated to pursue their own passions with the same determination and joyful spirit. Ash Barty: Champion is a must-read for young tennis enthusiasts, aspiring athletes, or children aged 10 and up who are chasing a dream.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Jess Lomas is the acting editor of reviews for Books+Publishing. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Category: Reviews