The best gymnastics books for kids, teens, parents and coaches
Top gymnastics books include Simone Biles' memoir Courage to Soar, Laurie Hernandez's picture book She's Got This, the Go-for-Gold Gymnasts chapter-book series by Dominique Moceanu, and Elizabeth Levy's classic The Gymnasts series. Books make great meet, birthday and end-of-season gifts.
Last updated 2026-10-29 · Sources listed at the end of this articleWe grouped these by reader. Covers come from the Open Library; links go to Amazon search results so you can pick the format (paperback, hardcover, Kindle or audiobook). We haven't listed star ratings because we only show ratings we've verified.
Picture books
Cheers for Gymnastics
A bright early-reader picture book about a young gymnast's first experiences in the sport.
She's Got This
Olympian Laurie Hernandez's picture book about a girl who falls, gets back up and keeps trying.
Chapter books
Go-for-Gold Gymnasts: Balancing Act (Book 1)
First book in a middle-grade series co-written by 1996 Olympic champion Dominique Moceanu.
The Gymnasts #1: The Beginners
A classic series opener about a group of girls joining a gymnastics team.
Memoirs by gymnasts
Courage to Soar
Simone Biles' memoir of faith, family and becoming an Olympic champion.
Chalked Up
A former U.S. national champion's candid look at elite gymnastics culture. Best for adults and older teens.
For coaches
Men's Gymnastics Coaching Manual
A classic British Amateur Gymnastics Association coaching manual on men's apparatus technique.
Gift ideas with books
- Pair a picture book with a gymnast scrunchie for a little-sister gift (more ideas).
- Add a memoir to a senior night gift.
- Books make easy boo bag and meet-bag additions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best gymnastics book for kids?
For young kids, Laurie Hernandez's She's Got This; for middle grade, the Go-for-Gold Gymnasts or The Gymnasts series.
Did Simone Biles write a book?
Yes, Courage to Soar (2016), and a young readers' edition is also available.
Are gymnastics memoirs appropriate for kids?
Many are written for teens and adults and some discuss abuse in the sport; preview first.
What gymnastics books make good gifts?
A memoir by an Olympian for teens, or a picture book paired with gymnast accessories for younger kids.
Are there gymnastics books for coaches?
Yes, technical manuals like Lloyd Readhead's Men's Gymnastics Coaching Manual, plus your federation's education materials.
Sources
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