Literacy Warriors

Everything you need to bring Fist Bump to young readers.

Why Fist Bump Works

A 28-page picture book that hooks every listener — from reluctant readers to eager bookworms.

28 pages, big illustrations, and a SPLAT! moment that hooks every listener. Volunteers can lead a session with zero prep.

Football, speed, and a stadium setting pull in kids who wouldn't normally pick up a book. Max speaks their language.

Resilience, belonging, and encouragement — woven into a story kids actually want to hear again. No lecturing required.

No training needed. Follow these four steps and you're set.

1

Works with 5 kids or 500. Arrange seating so everyone can see the illustrations. Hold the book high or project pages on screen.

2

Use voices for Max, Dad, and J.D. Pause at the SPLAT! moment — let the kids react. The energy in the room will tell you it's working.

3

Use the discussion questions below. Let the kids lead — they'll connect Max's story to their own experiences faster than you'd expect.

4

Hand out coloring pages or word searches. While they work, walk around and give fist bumps. End the session the way J.D. would.

Pick 3-4 questions that fit your group. No wrong answers — the goal is conversation.

J.D. said "We all mess up." Why is it important to hear that from someone you look up to?
Max's dad told him "What matters is what you do next." What does that mean for your own life?
Who is someone who has given you a "fist bump" moment — made you feel like you belong?

Coloring pages, word searches, and vocabulary sheets — ready to print and hand out.

Michael Williams visits schools, libraries, and community events for interactive read-alouds and Q&A sessions. Bulk book pricing available.