Who Is Michael Phelps? book cover
  • Athletes

Who Is Michael Phelps?

A young boy from Maryland who started swimming at age seven
A philanthropist whose organization promotes physical and mental health in children
A former competitive swimmer who holds the world record for winning the most Olympic medals


Find out how a mischievous boy became a phenomenal swimmer and the greatest Olympian of all time in this inspiring addition to the #1 New York Times bestselling Who Was? series!

Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Michael Phelps began swimming at age seven at the urging of his mom. As a young boy, Michael was brimming with energy–more energy than most other kids his age–and Mrs. Phelps thought this sport could help keep him calm and focused. As Michael grew older, his skills improved, and he transformed into one of the greatest swimmers in the world, winning twenty-eight Olympic medals.

Outside of the pool, Michael became an advocate for mental and physical health for adults and children. He even founded an organization that teaches water safety and promotes healthy living. Young readers can learn more about Michael Phelps’s thriving legacy in this illustrated middle-grade biography.

Play the Who Was Adventure game!

Download the Who Was series app with over 5,500 questions and 100 levels to play on your phone.

Download on the AppStore

Activity Sheets

Download these activity sheets to add to the lesson and spark classroom discussions.

View All