Q&A with Sophia Murphy

 

 

Sophia Murphy is the author of the new middle grade book Sports Superstars from Black History. She is based in Toronto. 

 

Q: What inspired you to write Sports Superstars from Black History?

A: Sports Superstars from Black History was written for young achievers who want to follow their dreams, whatever they may be. I wrote the book with the idea in mind that kids often look to athletes as role models.

 

But what we see from the outside is the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and commitment. What we don't see is all the steps they took to get where they are, the sacrifices they made, and the long hours of practice that athletes put into being at the top of their game.

 

Children are full of dreams, but they may not have a clear idea of how to pursue them. This book was intended to inspire, educate, and provide kids with insight into how some of their favorite athletes achieved success and how others along the way made it possible for them to reach their greatest potential.

Q: How did you choose the athletes to include--both contemporary and historical?

 

A: I love Black History, and from the beginning, I knew I wanted this book to feature not only current Black athletes but also celebrate pioneers who made significant contributions to their field of sport. 

 

For the current athletes, I wanted the names to be recognizable; people that kids know and love. These contemporary athletes are household names, the best of the best.

 

In contrast, the names of many historical figures I included in the book are not easily recognizable or may have been completely lost to time. We don't learn enough about the contributions Black athletes made to sports and society as a whole, and for this reason, I wanted to highlight the careers of these historical Black figures in sports.

 

These first trailblazers faced incredible obstacles and often lacked the support and resources that modern-day athletes have. Yet, they persevered, pursuing their dreams against all odds and breaking glass ceilings along the way.

 

Because of what they were able to achieve, they opened the doors for every athlete that came after them, and even more importantly, changed society.

 
Q: How did you research the book, and did you learn anything that especially surprised you?

 

A: I read books (autobiographies and biographies), commentaries, and an array of articles on the athletes. I also watched interviews and original footage I found on YouTube of the athletes at various events and speaking engagements.

 

I wouldn't say I was surprised by anything I found; I would describe my feelings as one of awe. I was impressed by the sheer determination of all the athletes when faced with some of life's hardest challenges. They remained dedicated to their dream, never giving up (though they may have had doubts), and always working towards improving themselves and their skills.

Q: What do you hope kids take away from the book?

 

A: The stories of these athletes are filled with many life lessons. And there is so much to learn from each and every one of them.

 

But in the end, I hope kids come to understand that life is full of ups and downs and no matter what comes their way, if they believe in who they are and what they can bring to this world, they can achieve so much in life.

 

I want them to know that their dreams, whatever they may be, are worth pursuing, and they can achieve whatever they set their minds to with practice, self-belief, and the right mindset.

Q: What are you working on now?

A: I'm currently working on two novels, one historical and one contemporary, both of which center on Black women. Both books are in the early stages of writing, and at some point, I will have to focus on one. However, since they're both labors of love, it will be hard to decide which gets my full attention.

Q: Anything else we should know?

A: I'm grateful to have written a book where Black children can read about representations of themselves, and all children can learn from the resilience of Black athletes and their contributions to sports.

 

I hope every child who picks up my book comes away with greater knowledge, a deeper understanding of the human spirit, and a renewed will to pursue their dreams.

 

--Interview with Deborah Kalb