Cindy Bentley

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Spirit of a Champion

Bob Kann and Caroline Hoffman

Meet a multiple-medal-winning Special Olympian who has inspired many and fought tirelessly for the rights of people with disabilities.

96 pages, 7 x 9, 65 b&w photos
Paperback: $12.95 | ISBN: 978-0-87020-456-2
Ebook: $9.99 | ISBN: 978-0-87020-666-5
Publication Date: 8/5/2010

Reading Level: Ages 10–14, Grades 5–8

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Front cover of Cindy Bentley: Spirit of a Champion by Bob Kann and Caroline Hoffman

Description

The odds seemed to be stacked against young Cindy Bentley. Born with cerebral palsy and an intellectual disability due to fetal alcohol syndrome, she spent much of her childhood bouncing around foster homes and living in institutions. No one expected her to learn the skills necessary to live on her own. To everyone’s surprise—including her own—she did that and much more. Cindy Bentley: Spirit of a Champion celebrates the life of a phenomenal athlete, inspirational leader, and dedicated activist.

With the encouragement of a teacher at the Southern Wisconsin Center for the Developmentally Disabled, Cindy realized she had a deep passion for sports—and the discipline to train and compete. She began participating in the Special Olympics and gained confidence as she worked with teammates to earn medals in tennis, track and field, and even snowshoeing.

Chosen as a Global Messenger for the Special Olympics International in 2000, Cindy has dined at the White House with two different American presidents, traveled around the world, and given speeches in front of thousands of people. A tireless advocate, she helped to start People First, an organization that encourages those with disabilities to speak up for their rights.

In this engaging and informative biography, young readers will learn what gives Cindy her champion spirit and about the important work she does to make sure everyone is given a fair chance.

Author Bios

Bob Kann has a PhD in education and is a professional storyteller, entertainer, and juggler who performs for audiences of all ages. He is the author several books, including Joyce Westerman: Baseball Hero; Bob and Belle La Follette: Partners in Politics; and Cordelia Harvey: Civil War Angel. Kann lives in Madison, Wisconsin.

Before retiring, Caroline Hoffman worked on disability policy for the Wisconsin Council on Developmental Disabilities. She lives in Madison, Wisconsin.