Wei Skates On

By Nathan Chen and illustrated by Lorraine Nam

★ Junior Library Guild Selection

★ Bank Street Children’s Best Books of the Year - 2024

★ “Chen draws on his experience as a figure skater and Olympic gold medalist in this uplifting story about finding joy in one’s passion. Nam’s graceful, color-saturated paint and paper collage art has a subtle 3D effect.” — Publishers Weekly

★ “Nam’s illustrations capture Wei’s charming family life but are most impressive when revealing his strength and beauty on the ice; full-bleed spreads feel like slow-motion breakdowns of each jump. Any reader who has had fun chased aside by the pressure of expectations will find solace in this tale. An inspiring, invigorating story about the value of practice, perseverance—and joy!” — Kirkus Reviews

Olympic gold medalist and three-time World Champion Nathan Chen delivers an inspirational picture book about facing your fears and finding the joy in sports, no matter the outcome. 

Wei has loved ice-skating ever since his first visit to the rink. He loves gliding across the ice, taking flight on jumps, and moving with the music—there’s nothing else like it!

But as Wei’s first big competition draws near, he begins to worry. He’s been training hard, but what if he doesn’t win? With help from Mom, can Wei find a way to handle his nerves? What would it feel like to skate without the pressure of winning? 

As the first Asian American man to win gold in figure skating, Nathan Chen is a celebrated role model for kids who want to shine on and off the ice. His uplifting message of positivity and perseverance makes this story the perfect choice for social emotional learning at home or in the classroom.

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