International Rights

Scholastic Canada Biography: Meet Tom Longboat

By: Elizabeth MacLeod
Illustrated by: Mike Deas
  • ISBN 9781443163910, Hardcover
  • 32 Pages | Ages 6 to 10

Meet Tom Longboat, the Onondaga runner who broke world records . . . on his own terms!

On April 19, 1907, a hundred thousand people lined up to watch the eighth running of the Boston Marathon. At the start of the race, more than one hundred runners surged forward, and at the end, Tom Longboat won it in a record-breaking 2 hours, 24 minutes and 24 seconds. He became the most famous runner in the world, yet faced scrutiny and criticism of every part of his life, from his revolutionary training techniques to his Indigenous heritage.

This picture book will introduce young readers to a brave and fascinating man whose legacy as Canada’s foremost distance runner continues to be recognized to this day.

This new biography series features accessible text, full-colour illustrations, with historical notes and timelines that provide even more information on Tom Longboat’s background and incredible accomplishments.

Rights Sold

French (N. Amer.) – Éditions Scholastic

Selling Points

• This lively and colourful new biography series is unlike anything available!
• A great introduction to larger issues.
• Tom Longboat’s story invites reflection on our treatment of Indigenous peoples.

Awards

  • Short-listed, OLA Silver Birch Express Award, 2019
  • Commended, TD Summer Reading Club - Top 10 Recommended Read, 2020
  • Commended, OLA Best Bets, 2019