Books in Breakthrough Biographies series

Jettisoned into the public eye for his extensive involvement with the musical "Into the Heights" in 2008, which won him a Tony Award for Best Original Score, Lin-Manuel Miranda has become a household name. Most recently, Miranda has received awards and media attention for writing the music, lyrics, and book for the musical "Hamilton," in which he performed the lead role of Alexander Hamilton. On top of these achievements, Miranda, of Puerto Rican descent, worked with President Barack Obama and other legislators to help ease Puerto Rico's debt. He has been recognized for his originality and dedication to theatre and has shown young people the value of a varied musical education.

The first Muslim American woman to wear a hijab while competing for the United States in the Olympics, Ibtihaj Muhammad has become a symbol of diversity and tolerance for America. Muhammad has broken the mold by becoming a standout female Muslim American athlete and is an inspiration to many. In 2016, Muhammad reached the high point of her fencing career so far, becoming the first female Muslim American athlete to earn a medal at the Olympic Games. Full-color photographs and a detailed timeline provide readers with essential information into Muhammad's life.

It isn't very often that late bloomers are called prodigies, but Misty Copeland is an extraordinary case. At the age of 13, she began her formal ballet training, which is considerably later than most children begin ballet. In 2015, Copeland was promoted from soloist to principal at American Ballet Theatre, one of the world's premiere ballet companies. She has written a memoir and a children's book, and starred in the screen adaptation of her memoir. She advocates for inclusivity in the classical ballet world and as well as body positivity for young women.

This title explores the life and career of the most decorated American gymnast so far, Simone Biles. This young woman rose from the challenges of her youth to break the mold, earning five medals, including four gold, at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Biles is one of only six female gymnasts to have won an individual all-around title at both the world Championships and the Olympic Games. This record-breaking young woman has set the stage for future gymnasts as well as all those struggling to overcome adversity. Photographs and a timeline accurately depict Biles's exciting gymnastics career.

The civil rights movement of the 1960s brought John Lewis out of anonymity. As one of the "Big Six" leaders of the civil rights movement, he participated in the March on Washington as the youngest speaker of the event. Even after the Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Act were passed, Lewis continued to fight for civil rights. Readers will learn that today he represents Georgia in the House of Representatives and has advocated for healthcare reform, improvements to education, and reducing poverty. This biography shows that Lewis serves as a role model for young people throughout the country by fighting equal rights for all.

In 2009, a deceptively simple block-based sandbox game first began appearing on computers. Now, eight years later, Minecraft is one of the best-selling games of all time. But how did this worldwide phenomenon come to be? Readers will learn about the game's creator, programmer Markus "Notch "Persson; Mojang, the company he founded to help make it a reality; and the team of people who've helped it reach its current popularity. Intriguing details, an in-depth timeline, and full-color photos will enthrall gaming enthusiasts eager to learn about the people that have broken the computer programming mold to create their favorite pastime.

Emma Watson is best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films, but her influence reaches far beyond the silver screen. In the public eye from a young age, Emma Watson has chosen to use her place in the spotlight to advocate for women's rights. She started the gender equality campaign HeForShe, works closely with fair trade garment retailers, and continues to act. Once a young unknown, Emma Watson has broken the mold and uses her place in the limelight to educate the world on pressing issues such as women's rights and ecologically sustainable fashion.

Michael Phelps, nicknamed the Flying Fish, is the most decorated Olympian of all time with a total of 28 medals. He has broken several world records in swimming and is now known as the greatest swimmer of all time. Diagnosed with ADHD at a young age, Phelps has broken the mold by overcoming the stigma surrounding the disorder. Although he retired from swimming after the 2016 Summer Olympics, Phelps still serves as a role model and a source of inspiration for young people around the world. This book provides readers with photographs and a timeline that give insight into Phelps's record-setting career.