Shannon Miller: My Child, My Hero
Shannon Miller, multi-medal-winning gymnast at both the 1992 Barcelona and 1996 Atlanta Olympics, is the subject of this memoir written by her mother. While such a book could have become overbearing, Miller is instead gracious toward rivals, teammates, and the many who helped Shannon and temperate when discussing spats with coaches. In Kerri Strug's autobiography Landing on My Feet (LJ 11/1/97), readers came to understand a gymnast's terrific drive and sacrifices. In this book, we see how these sacrifices can affect an athlete's parents and siblings. Also interesting are the Millers' religious beliefs?as Christian Scientists, mother and daughter used prayer and the writings of Mary Baker Eddy to make decisions, even medical ones. Despite Shannon's fame and achievements, there is not a trace of superiority complex here. A solid addition to gymnastics collections in public libraries.?Kathryn Ruffle, Coll. of New Caledonia Lib., Prince George, BCCopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.