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48 pages 1 hour read

Undefeated: Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian School Football Team

Nonfiction | Biography | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

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Book Brief

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Steve Sheinkin

Undefeated

Nonfiction | Biography | Middle Grade | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • Early 1900s

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

980L

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Super Short Summary

Undefeated by Steve Sheinkin narrates the journey of Jim Thorpe, an Indigenous athlete, from his upbringing on the Sac and Fox reservation to his athletic triumphs at the Carlisle Indian School, coached by Pop Warner. This biography also explores the broader context of football history, highlighting themes of racism, exploitation of Indigenous peoples, and the challenges Thorpe faced, including losing his Olympic medals due to eligibility issues. The book discusses racial discrimination, exploitation, mistreatment of Indigenous peoples, and historical injustices.

Inspirational

Informative

Challenging

Emotional

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

3,538 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Steve Sheinkin's Undefeated has been praised for its engaging narrative and thorough research, making the story of Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian Industrial School accessible and compelling. However, some reviewers note that the book’s pace occasionally lags and could benefit from a more detailed exploration of its secondary characters. Overall, it remains a strong, insightful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Undefeated?

Readers who enjoy Undefeated by Steve Sheinkin are typically young adults and sports enthusiasts interested in compelling true stories of triumph. Similar to Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger, this book appeals to fans of history, football, and narratives of overcoming adversity. It’s a great fit for those who appreciate detailed research and engaging storytelling.

4.4

3,538 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • Early 1900s

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

980L

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