The A to Z of Who I Could Be: 26 athletes that every little kid (and big adult) should know; Chloe Dalton founder of the (female) athlete project, illustrated by Kim Siew

On the courts, on the slopes, on the sand, on the field, on the track, on the waves and in the water, Australia’s female and non-binary athletes tear it up and smash the competition. Breaking records, winning medals, lifting trophies and standing proudly as one of the best in the world are what these superstars of the sporting world do. From Ash Barty to Isis Holt, Nova Peris to Zali Steggaall, twenty six awesome Aussies will inspire a generation…

Chloe Dalton is on a mission to increase the visibility of women in sport, something that is much needed given the shocking statistic that, ‘women make up 40% of participants in sport yet only receive 4% of the media coverage.’ Playing multiple sports at elite level, she is more aware than anyone about the lack of attention and recognition given to female and gender diverse athletes. And in 2020, during Covid lockdown, she set about doing something about it. The (Female) Athlete Project was born.

The A to Z of Who I Could Be is the latest endeavour and it is sporting gold. Inclusive, diverse and bursting with positive role models, the brilliant collective of some of Australia’s best sporting talent is an inspirational and motivational celebration of female and non-binary athletes who have smashed it or who are smashing it in their chosen sports.

Each superstar is presented across a double page; a few words about their sporting prowess on one page and a powerful illustration on the other. It is an excellent starting point that will surely lead to further research into favourites. An excellent timeline, that consolidates the athletes and their achievements, is great for quick reference. It is worth noting that both first names and surnames are used to fit the stars into alphabetical order; Ash Barty takes position A with Anna Meares found at M. Jessica Fox fills the rather tricky X.

Sporty kids will carry it around with them, sharing stories of their favourite athletes, using it to fuel their own goals and proudly declaring they are going to be the next Belle Brockhoff, Madison Di Rozario, Darcy Vescio or Ariarne Titmus.

All athletes deserve to be and need to be household names. With Chloe and The (Female) Athlete Project leading the way, the growth, coverage and recognition of women’s sport is in safe hands. Will have everyone cheering loudly; Aussie! Aussie! Aussie!

Recommended for 6+.

With huge thanks to Allen & Unwin for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.