Lydia Reeder

Sam Babb traveled far and wide to find only the most talented and dedicated young women basketball players. Despite being physically disabled, Babb was a talented coach. The girls he recruited simply loved playing basketball, and they were no strangers to hard work. For most of the team, this was their first time being away from home, but it was a dream come true. Not only did they get to play the sport they loved, but they also had the opportunity to receive a college education. Along the way, they became national champions during the Great Depression. This story of grit, tenacity, friendship, and compassion will keep you on the edge of your seat as the lady Cardinals battle one of the best athletes of the era.

The Bottom Line: This inspiring read is a look back in time when things were tough during the Great Depression. Not only did their coach provide them with the chance to play basketball, but each girl had the opportunity to better themselves and their families. These women went on to become coaches, teachers, and mothers and influenced generations of women after them. Enthusiastically recommended reading for high school and college classes, sports fans, and readers of women's history.

For the complete review including Book Club Notes, please visit the Mini Book Bytes Book Review Blog.… (meer)

I listened to the audiobook, and found it very enjoyable. The book weaves together threads of national, state, sport, and personal history really well to provide a pretty clear picture of the many different factors that led to the story as a whole. There was just enough detail about each of the people involved and the history of the school to enrich the story and not bog it down. The history of women’s basketball in and of itself was fascinating, I just had no idea of any of it at all!
The story of the OPC Cardinals and their coach was incredible, and the inner workings of how their amazing winning streak came about should catch the interest of coaches and players alike, as well as those who just enjoy a good sports story.… (meer)