In My Skin

Book excerpt: The WMBA All-Star shares the inspiring story of her singular life as an athlete and activist in this “searing and ultimately liberating memoir” (New York Times Book Review). Brittney Griner is a once-in-a-generation basketball player. A two-time Olympic gold medalist and a six-time WNBA All-Star, she has been hailed by Sports Illustrated as “the sport’s most transformative figure.” But she is equally famous for speaking out on a range of social issues, as well as for surviving a wrongful detention in Russia that became a geopolitical flashpoint. Now Griner shares her coming-of-age story, revealing how she found her strength to overcome bullies and embrace her authentic self. At 6’8”, with an 88-inch wingspan and a size 17 shoe (men’s), the Phoenix Mercury star has heard every vicious insult in the book, enduring years of taunting that began in middle school and continues to this day. Through the highs and lows, Griner has learned to remain true to herself, rising above the haters trying to take her down. In her heartfelt memoir, she reflects on painful episodes in her life and describes how she came to celebrate what makes her unique—inspiring lessons she now shares. Filled with all the humor and personality Griner has become known for, In My Skin is more than a glimpse into one of the most original personalities in sports; it’s also a powerful call to readers to be true to themselves, to love who they are on the inside and out. With eight pages of photos.