Fierce: How Competing for Myself Changed Everything Hardcover – November 14, 2017

I bought this book for my pre-teen, I read it first before I gave it to him. It is a very informative book about the power of confidence, perseverance, and overcoming obstacles. We read it as a family as to answer questions as they arose.

"Fierce" by Aly Raisman has quickly become one of my favorite books. A memoir of sorts, "Fierce" is written from a first person perspective and outlines the life events and experiences of Olympic gold-medalist, Aly Raisman. From childhood memories of Olympic dreams to finally sticking one last Olympic floor routine, Aly Raisman engages the reader by inviting them into her journey from not-so-talented child gymnast to one of the most well-recognized athletes in the sport.But "Fierce" goes far beyond Olympic achievement and the sport of gymnastics; "Fierce" tells an amazing story of an incredibly driven, hardworking, and passionate individual, determined to use her platform as a means for bringing positive change to the world. Within the pages of "Fierce", Aly shares intimate details of her life, discussing topics like mental health, body positivity, and child safety.I could go on, but I think it'd be best if you just went ahead and bought a copy yourself. Overall, I give this book a 5/5 stars and would honestly recommend it to anyone (gymnastics enthusiast or not).Note: If you're interested, on the opposite side of the dust jacket (the paper part of a book that wraps around the outside of a hardcover) is a poster of Aly on what I believe to be Day 6 of the 2016 Rio Olympics (dimensions, approximately 8.5 in by 20 in). I've attached a photo of what it looks like hanging up.

I love watching women's gymnastics and admire the focus as well as the talent and non stop hard work it demands to get to the gold. The sections about the training, the number of hours, the perserverence are the strongest. The details about same are gripping. Including the drive and push necessary from a strong coach. Aly's book makes these points very well and is an education about life in the gym when gymnastics is more than a hobby. The narrative starts to lose its momentum, however, when Raisman turns preachy and morfs more into becoming motivational . There are plenty of motivational books and speakers, but what it takes and is like to become an elite gymnast is fascinating. Aly seems to have had not only the most supportive parents, but a family that didn't quarrel or resent the attention and accommodations that were made . To be a good person was their constant reminder . Ali's narrative starts to falter the more we hear about this. Also the constant fits of gigging and laughing... Non stop... with her colleagues became annoying. If there was any real jealousy, which much exist at some level in any competitive existence, we don't hear about it. Perhaps this book is written primarily for young readers.. To inspire and encourage them to accept themselves... A very important message to be sure, but perhaps that could have been a different book.

I didn't finish it yet but... it's great! It's really really great!Aly Raisman is so brave to write honestly about her experiences in gymnastics. It is people like her who have the courage to take a stand for what they believe in that are going to change the world, impact lives, and hopefully change sport.This book is unique in that it is not another "fluffy" athlete book. Parts of it are upsetting, devastating, infuriating... disgusting. Raisman even talks about the culture of USA Gymnastics and how they neglected their athletes. Hopefully the culture of the organization will change to be kinder, healthier, safer, and more human than it has been in the past. With these positive changes I could see American gymnastics reaching heights never before seen or dreamed possible.

From dreaming of Olympic gold to living the Olympic dream; from practicing her signature on the living room wall, to signing autographs for so many young fans with a similar vision as her own, Aly's journey to Olympic success is one of incredible determination, persistence, heartache, and triumph. But this book is not just about Aly overcoming doubts, both from people around her, and her own inner doubt—we are given an emotional tale chock-full (or should I say chalk full ;-) of heartfelt guidance and encouragement so eloquently intertwined within her story—how all people, no matter their age or what their story, can find happiness, compassion, and peace within themselves despite living in a world full of fierce judgment. A must read for anyone looking to create positive change.

My 11 year old daughter really likes gymnastics and wanted this book. As I previewed the book the chapters were appropriate for her age. There was a chapter about sexual abuse but I thought it was well written and didn’t give so much information that she couldn’t read about it. We will read that one together, but otherwise it is a well written book about a woman of courage and determination. What more can I ask for in a role model for my daughter?

Aly is one of my favorite gymnasts from the last two Olympics. She has determination and worked hard to get to her goals. Good luck Aly.

This book is very inspiring and I look up to Aly Raisman a lot. She tells you about her life and gymnastics. I am a gymnast and I look up to her. She is a two-time olympian and is an awesome gymnast. Although, she talks about the USA team doctor. I wouldn’t recommend this book to little children.

Me atrapó desde el inicio su historia y las recomendaciones de este libro son muy acertadas

A wonderful view of a journey through gymnastics. Aly Raisman is a multi gold medalist at the Olympics and has proven her skills as well as just how amazing a person she is.

This is a great story of how to achieve your goals. Even if the road is full of problems.I should say that its a must if you are a sports/Olympics fan.

Major props to Aly for this book. A very enjoyable sports biography!

Mi hija de 12 años hace gimnasia y lo amó. Ya quiero leerlo.