TORONTO — Tennis star Bianca Andreescu has penned a children's book about tennis, meditation and perseverance.
Andreescu says she wanted to create a story that can help kids support their mental health when they face challenges.
"Bibi's Got Game" is about a young athlete who learns to work through a setback with inner strength and help from an energetic little dog.
The 21-year-old Andreescu, from Mississauga, Ont., says the story is inspired by her own life and experiences on-and-off the court.
Tundra Books says it's set for publication May 31, 2022.
The book was written with Toronto writer and editor Mary Beth Leatherdale and features illustrations by Vancouver artist Chelsea O’Byrne.
It centres 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.
"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."
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 30, 2021.
The Canadian Press
