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Topic: Gymnastics

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smallactor5 avatar
Subject: Gymnastics
Date Posted: 8/13/2008 2:29 PM ET
Member Since: 12/19/2007
Posts: 46
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Hey, guys, I'm a gymnast and we get a lot of downtime when we go to competitions and I'm always looking for good books to read, especially about gymnastics or that are just really empowering.  I hate those books that are nothing but critical of the sport, though, like "Little Girls in Pretty Boxes."  Yeah, some gymnasts do have eating disorders and insane coaches or parents, but most of us just really love our sport and all the sacrifices we have to make are worth it.  So, that said, any recommendations? 

Indogirl avatar
Date Posted: 8/14/2008 11:51 AM ET
Member Since: 10/25/2007
Posts: 1,253
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Are you interested in biographies of gymnasts? I've read some that were pretty good, but I don't have them anymore.

gurlgymnast avatar
Date Posted: 8/16/2008 9:28 PM ET
Member Since: 8/16/2008
Posts: 20
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If you like fiction, (albeit kids books) try the Little Gymnast by Sheila Haigh. I have it, but not selling. Also, if you can find a copy of Bart Conner's autobiography, it is hilarious. He talks about all the crazy things he did when he was a kid. I read it at the library, but have been unable to find it otherwise. I also liked Letters to a young gymnast by Nadia Comaneci and the American Gold Gymnasts series. There are a lot of good bios out there, but any by Krista Quinner are especially good. And of course, Gymnastoons is great too. If you are looking for instructional books, the old sports illustrated books are interesting (but hard to find). What gymnastics books do you like? What level are you? I'm in level 7.
Generic Profile avatar
Date Posted: 10/5/2008 2:50 PM ET
Member Since: 3/1/2006
Posts: 436
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Hey, I was surprised to see a thread like this. I'm not a gymnast nor have I ever been one. But I used to love watching it! Still do, especially when the Olympics come around.

 

Anyway, I have to say I never thought to look for books on gymnastics. Think I'll try something new today!

 

Also, are there any gymnasts out there wanting to chat? I'm a novice writer and love to soak up information like a sponge.

 

 Natalie



Last Edited on: 10/5/08 2:51 PM ET - Total times edited: 1