Did you know that before Muhammad Ali became one of the world’s best-known athletes, he had a different name? That his prime years were lost because he chose to stand by his principles rather than go to war against people who weren’t his enemies? And that he always bounced back from defeat to emerge victorious because he believed in himself when no one else did?

The Story of Muhammad Ali takes you through the journey of this great man, who became a global icon because he chose to stand up for what he believed was right rather than follow the crowd.

Born Cassius Clay during the era of segregation, Muhammad Ali took control of his destiny at a young age. He changed his name and embraced Islam because he wanted to stand by his beliefs.

He became a boxer and showed the world that an ordinary African American could rise to the top. He also stood firm in his opposition to a war that the government wanted him to fight in, even when it cost him his boxing career for several years.

This book explores his childhood, his rise as a boxer and what made him intimidating to his opponents and a symbol of courage for his fans. It describes his journey to the top in language that is easy to understand. The illustrations and photographs make the book even more interesting, while unfamiliar words are explained in the margins or in the glossary at the end.

What makes this book even more interesting is that it shows the human side of one of the greatest athletes the world has ever seen. How he planned his fights, danced around to tire out his opponents and reacted after each victory are all fascinating details.

After retiring, Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. But true to his fighting spirit, he continued to face challenges and became involved in efforts to raise awareness and support research into the disease.

After reading this book, you will understand what the ‘Thrilla in Manila’ was, why the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ became so famous and why Muhammad Ali’s appearance as a torchbearer at the 1996 Olympic Games moved his fans and admirers.

Published in Dawn, Young World, November 14th, 2026