Description
Molly’s Big Score
2022 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Winner – 1st Place for New Author in Fiction and Honorable Mention for Special Needs/Disability Awareness
Molly wants nothing more than to score a goal for the soccer team, but just trying to kick the ball causes her to fall over. If only her legs worked as well as her brothers.
With the braces on her legs, Molly doesn’t believe she’ll ever be good at anything. Let alone soccer. Until her friend, Anna, encourages her to go for her dreams. Maybe now she has a chance at scoring big in the upcoming game?
This friendship story opens the discussion on inclusion and children with disabilities by demonstrating no matter what our bodies say, we are all important and have value. Molly may have cerebral palsy, but she’s not going to let it keep her from living life to the fullest. And neither should you. A children’s book about cerebral palsy for children ages 4-7.
5-Star Reviews from Reader’s Favorite
“Katie Purcell’s picture book story, Molly’s Big Score, is a touching, heartwarming story about a little girl with a physical disability. Molly has cerebral palsy, which limits the mobility in her legs. As she demonstrates her growing frustration, family and friends pitch in to help, demonstrating how love and caring can help. This is a great educational story for all children as they learn how to accept others and help those in need. ”
– Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Reader’s Favorite
“Molly’s Big Score by Katie Purcell is about Molly, a girl with cerebral palsy. This book hits several levels for kids with challenges: family relationships, best friends, personal struggles, and faith in oneself to do something never done before.”
– Bruce Arrington for Reader’s Favorite
“This is a wonderful book for all children, especially those who have a physical or emotional condition. Molly’s Big Score will help teach children that everyone is the same, even if they’re “different,” and encourage them to stay positive, work hard, and rely on the advice and support of family and friends. Because author Katie Purcell has worked with children with special needs for many years, she is ideally qualified to write the book.”
– Joe Wisinki for Reader’s Favorite
– Publishing Date: October 12th, 2021
– Dimensions: 10 x 8
– ISBN: 978-1-7363258-0-3
– Library of Congress Number: 2021919232
– Hardcover Bound
– E-Version available
– Publisher: BiblioKid Publishing
– Author: Katie Purcell
– Illustrator: Maggie Glisan
Katelynn G –
This is a great book to read at home or to use in the classroom. It helps readers understand that everyone has struggles. The theme of the book emphasizes that it is our job as family members, friends, classmates, etc. to use our gifts to lift others up. This is a lesson all children and adults can reflect upon.
bibliokid –
So glad you enjoyed it Katelynn! Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us.
Kristin Mohr –
I love this book and the valuable lesson it provides! Molly is a special little girl learning the importance of working towards her goals, both big and small. Her story highlights accepting each other’s differences and shares a great message for children (and adults) that everyone has their individual struggles. It’s a beautiful and heartwarming little story to inspire strength and perseverance for all ages.
bibliokid –
Yes! That’s exactly what we were hoping for with this story. So glad it’s resonated with you.
Shel Curry –
Inspired! This is the word I chose to describe my feelings after reading Molly’s Big Score by Katie Purcell. Molly just wants to feel normal and be “good” at things like playing soccer with her brothers, and kicking soccer balls and exercising with her best friend. This story is relatable because in life, there’s always someone close – a family member or friend – rooting for you during difficult times. A true best friend can be counted on when the going gets tough and be there when you need him/her the most. Molly’s best friend Anna is spectacular at helping Molly be her best self.
This story is relatable to kids with cerebral palsy or special needs, readers interested in a story that authentically represents the disabilities community, and teachers and educators looking for a picture book that teaches young readers about empathy, diversity, friendship, family, perseverance, and overcoming obstacles. Also, the beautiful, vibrant illustrations complement the story well, providing readers with important examples of how kids with cerebral palsy live active and full lives.
bibliokid –
Love this! Thanks so much for sharing your kind words, Shel. 🙂
Alison –
This is an encouraging story about overcoming obstacles. Molly is a young girl with cerebral palsy (CP) who makes it her goal to play well in the big upcoming soccer game. Due to her diagnosis of CP affecting the function of her legs, Molly often has to work harder than her peers to succeed at tasks like running, jumping, and even just playing.
This book does an excellent job at highlighting the importance of persistence as Molly makes a structured plan to work hard every day to improve her soccer skills before the big game. It also shows the value of friendship and inclusion as Molly’s friend joins her in her journey. Molly learns that she is not alone as we all have different challenges in life, but she also learns how to use her own strengths to accomplish her goals. This is an excellent book for children, and reminds us all to recognize how we can use our strengths to support one another.
bibliokid –
Thanks so much for your review, Alison! So glad Molly resonated with you. 🙂
Diane Proffitt –
Love this book! Having a daughter with cerebral palsy, this book tells about the daily struggles and accomplishments that she deals with. It shows how it feels looking a friends and wondering why she can’t do some activities the same. Also friends looking at her wondering why she has to do activities differently. As a parent I search for books to share with my daughters peers to help them better understand her disability. This will definitely be one I will share with them. I love how Molly’s brothers and friends are so encouraging. Taking the time to help and encourage her along the way. Big cheers for Mollys determination to never give up know matter how hard it may be.
bibliokid –
Awe, that’s so wonderful to hear Diane! We’re so glad you liked it! 😍
Robyn Bles –
As a parent and pastor who works with children, it’s often easy to exclude children due to visible differences. Molly’s Big Score educates, and removes the stigma of children with physical differences; all while placing those difference in conversation with many other types of challenges children face. Molly’s friends and family help her, and all children, see that when we work together, we can find ways to support one another in our personal that when we work together, we can find ways to support one another in our personal struggles. This is a must read for all children. It encourages empathy and empowerment.
bibliokid –
Yes ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ Thank you so much for sharing your kind words of encouragement, Robyn!
Emily Wright –
Molly’s Big Score is a wonderful story of a child with cerebral palsy who with her friends’ and family’s support overcomes her obstacles. This is a story which explains others’ differences and reminds us that everyone has struggles; although they may be different than our own and we may not see them on the surface. It shows us that even the simple accomplishments and support from others can make a large difference in someone’s life. This book explains difference that people may have in a way that children can understand and shares a great message of acceptance. With charming illustrations and a wonderful message, this book is a great way to teach children acceptance of others and their differences!
As a physical therapist who works with children with disabilities, I love to be able to see books for these children to relate to, as well as those without disabilities to learn from. This is a great book for children and adults of all abilities!
bibliokid –
This is fantastic to hear! Thank you so much for sharing Emily!
Katie Powers –
After reading this story, I can’t help but feel inspired. Molly’s determination is about more than just scoring and winning the big game. She wants to be included, feel normal and have fun with her friends. As a physical therapist, this story is so relatable for many children with all different abilities. Reading a story about another child just like you is empowering! As a mother, I can’t wait to read this story to my own children! Learning about people with all different abilities is extremely important, and shouldn’t just be done after you’ve encountered someone that is different than you. The author, Katie has done a phenomenal job with this book to help normalize talking about Cerebral Palsy and other difficulties children face.
bibliokid –
Oh yay! Thank you so much for sharing with us Katie! We’re so glad you enjoyed the story. 😍
Angie Stender –
Absolutely love this book! Katie does such a good job of describing what cerebral palsy is while making it relatable to the struggles everyone has as we’re all human! I love the dynamics of friendship, working together and encouraging one another to be the best they can be! There’s such a need for a positive book like this that’s also educational and fun- and they nailed it! The creativity in the pictures really brings it to life and keeps you engaged throughout! Can’t recommend this book enough!
bibliokid –
That’s so fantastic to hear Angie! Thank you so much for posting 🙂
Patricia Reidy –
I love Molly’s Big Score by Katie Purcell!
It is a delightful story about determination, friendship, and overcoming adversity, written in a way to be easily understood by children.
Born with cerebral palsy, Molly is frustrated that she cannot kick the soccer ball when playing with her brothers.
Encouraged by her mother, and accompanied by her friend, Anna, Molly buckles down to do the daily exercises her legs need to become stronger.
Most importantly, Molly realizes that she is not alone- everyone has different struggles to overcome.
Molly’s Big Score will definitely be a welcome addition to classroom and school libraries everywhere.
bibliokid –
Love this! Thanks so much for leaving a review, Patricia! 🙂
Ascnsr –
This book invites its audience into the life of Molly, a tenacious young girl who learns that she will need to work a little harder than her brothers to score a goal in soccer. Through clever metaphors (e.g., ‘tuning’ a piano) and curious characters, the author explores the challenges that Molly and her friends face — those outwardly visible and those hidden from view — in a way that kids will understand and easily relate to. And it is delightfully illustrated to capture the energy and curiosity of its characters.
This is an essential book for anyone looking to help children understand the wide range of abilities that contribute to our families and communities. And the identifiable story and fun characters will also make it a kid favorite. Loved, loved, loved it!
bibliokid –
Yay! We’re so happy to hear you loved it. 🙂
Nancy Baker Curtis –
As a parent of a child with a disability, I look to furnish our home library with books that center a character with a disability. Molly is a character that my kids can relate to. Like my own son, Molly needs regular therapy to help her with her mobility and uses orthotics to strengthen her legs. Molly’s Big Score is a story of resiliency. Molly is able to overcome struggles that many children face that wear leg braces like balance and clumsiness. Molly’s obstacles don’t disappear, they are made more manageable through hard work. In doing the work, Molly realizes the importance of good friends and a supportive family. Life is filled with challenges. Molly’s support system of family and friends help her overcome the challenges she faces while embracing her disability.
bibliokid –
Awe, yay! We’re so glad to hear that Molly fits into your home Nancy. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts. 🖤
Meghan –
Love this book! It’s an inspirational story for kids and teaches them that with hard work, anything is possible 🙂 This book is a great read for kids with special needs as they can relate to Molly’s daily struggles with cerebral palsy, but I think it is just as impactful, maybe even more, for families outside the special needs community to better understand their role in helping everyone feel special and important. Definitely a must have in every home, therapy clinic and classroom!
bibliokid –
🖤🖤🖤
Michelle Stoermer –
Molly’s Big Score sends such a great message! For any child that has ever felt lost, confused, frustrated, or scared will relate to this story. This book beautifully shows that through hard work, with friends and family by their side, they can accomplish anything they set their hearts to. Molly’s Big Score is a must read for children of all abilities!
Kayla Poucher –
As a mom of a child with cerebral palsy, I was ecstatic to see the accurate and compelling representation of special needs displayed in Molly’s Big Score. Her emotions resonate at our house, and her success is so relatable. I think this book will help kids (and adults!) unfamiliar with cerebral palsy understand the nuances of it.
I give only 4 stars because I felt the illustrations left much to be desired. It appeared to be a first draft to me. Additionally, for the writing, there was a lot of “telling” rather than showing, or storytelling. As it is clearly meant to be educational, this is not necessarily problematic. However, it just may not be the book that kids without cerebral palsy beg to read before bed each night. A great classroom and clinic resource for sure!
Lisa Q –
Loved this book! It simplifies what CP is for kids and helps them learn kids with disabilities are just like them! I hope it helps kids include those who are different than them.
Myra –
I absolutely loved this book!!! The creative writing, beautiful illustrations, and encouraging message of perseverance. As a school counselor, I’m always looking for stories that celebrate differences, showcase beautiful friendships, and show young readers how to overcome obstacles. Molly’s Big Score does that perfectly. Furthermore, as a mom of 3 young kids, I want my kids to learn about people who experience life differently than they may. Molly’s Big Score encouraged insightful questions from my kids. They were cheering for Molly every step of the way. What a beautiful story!!
bibliokid –
Yay! So happy to hear how much you loved this book. 😍😍
Abbie –
This book is adorable! This heart-warming story about Molly working hard for something she wants so badly is the perfect amount of fun and learning a life lesson we all can appreciate. Molly is a smart young girl born with cerebral palsy. From the beginning, she sets a goal and doesn’t back down. This story is perfect in every way. It teaches us that children born with CP are just like the rest of us!
My seven year old stated after the book, “I liked how her mommy compared her to the piano. It was so good!”
Sarah –
What an inspiring book! The illustrations are beautiful and the words are well written. Katie does a great job of explaining Cerebral Palsy and promoting inclusivity. What a fun and unique book. Can’t wait to read it with my kids!
Jannesy DeLeon –
This book is a much needed addition to any child’s library. It’s the lovely story of a determined girl who has cerebral palsy and wants to play soccer at the neighborhood picnic. Even though feeling doubts about her abilities, Molly is determined to participate in the game. This story teaches children despite any challenges, if you work toward a goal, all things are possible! I highly recommend this book and its important message!