Steve Sheinkin's Undefeated has been praised for its engaging narrative and thorough research, making the story of Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian Industrial School accessible and compelling. However, some reviewers note that the book’s pace occasionally lags and could benefit from a more detailed exploration of its secondary characters. Overall, it remains a strong, insightful read.

Readers who enjoy Undefeated by Steve Sheinkin are typically young adults and sports enthusiasts interested in compelling true stories of triumph. Similar to Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger, this book appeals to fans of history, football, and narratives of overcoming adversity. It’s a great fit for those who appreciate detailed research and engaging storytelling.

Undefeated by Steve Sheinkin narrates the journey of Jim Thorpe, an Indigenous athlete, from his upbringing on the Sac and Fox reservation to his athletic triumphs at the Carlisle Indian School, coached by Pop Warner. This biography also explores the broader context of football history, highlighting themes of racism, exploitation of Indigenous peoples, and the challenges Thorpe faced, including losing his Olympic medals due to eligibility issues. The book discusses racial discrimination, exploitation, mistreatment of Indigenous peoples, and historical injustices.

Steve Sheinkin

Middle grade

Biography

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Undefeated Summary and Study Guide

Background

Undefeated Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “First Half”

Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 8

Undefeated Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 8 Summary & Analysis

Part 1 Chapters 9-18

Undefeated Part 1 Chapters 9-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Second Half”

Part 2, Chapters 19-26

Undefeated Part 2, Chapters 19-26 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapter 27-Epilogue

Undefeated Part 2, Chapter 27-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

Undefeated Key Figures

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Themes

Undefeated Themes

Index of Terms

Undefeated Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

Undefeated Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Undefeated Essay Topics

Undefeated: Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian School Football Team

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Undefeated?

Reading Age

Book Details