Canadian tennis star
Bianca Andreescu has penned a children's book that centers around tennis, meditation and perseverance.
Titled 'Bibi's Got Game', the book focuses on a young athlete who learns to work through a setback with inner strength and help from an energetic little dog. Andreescu says the story is inspired by her own life and experiences on-and-off the court, adding she wanted to create a story that can help kids support their mental health when they face challenges.
"I started thinking about writing 'Bibi's Got Game' a few years ago, when I first had the idea to pass along the advice and tools that helped me as a young athlete," Andreescu said Tuesday in a release.
"I hope my picture book is not seen as just one tennis player's personal story. I really wanted to create something that feels classic and shares timeless messages about the importance of family (both human and furry animal) and draws attention to your own mental health when facing challenges — whether in sports competitions or elsewhere."
The book was written with Toronto writer and editor Mary Beth Leatherdale and features illustrations by Vancouver artist Chelsea O’Byrne. It centers on an energetic girl named Bibi who discovers she has a talent for tennis, but is devastated by an injury. With help from her mother and dog Coco, she learns to push past self-doubt and negativity.
Tundra Books says it's set for publication May 31, 2022.