Venus and Serena Williams

Children's Literature

This interesting story chronicles the rise of tennis stars and sisters Venus and Serena Williams. In 1999, Venus, the older of the two, became the first African American woman since 1958 to win the U.S. Open, the top tennis tournament in the United States. The story is unique because the girls were trained primarily by their father. Although a good athlete, Mr. Williams had no training in tennis. He not only guided the girls to become great tennis players but insisted they be good students as well. As other professionals and trainers began to take notice, they suggested that the girls take up tennis full time with a recognized coach. The results have made the Williams sisters the top women athletes in their field. Consistent winners, the girls have dominated the women's tennis circuit. With a variety of color photos, the story follows their interesting rise and includes a list of career highlights, a glossary of tennis terms and an address for writing to the Williams sisters. 2001, Lerner, $22.60 and 5.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger<%ISBN%>0822536846