Ignite a Passion for the Winter Olympics: A New Book for Young Dreamers
Come February 2026, a new generation of fans will be cheering on athletes at the Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina, Italy. But the excitement is starting now, thanks to a new children’s book designed to introduce young readers to the magic of the Games. “Chasing Gold: A Kid’s Guide to the 2026 Winter Olympics,” published by USA TODAY, isn’t just a book; it’s a gateway to inspiring a lifelong love of sports, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams.
This 40-page hardcover book transforms screen time into quality family time, offering vibrant, full-color profiles of Team USA athletes that will make them feel like true superheroes to your child. Forget dry explanations of complex rules – “Chasing Gold” breaks down sports like skiing, curling, figure skating, and snowboarding into easily digestible, exciting concepts. It’s a fantastic way to build vocabulary and foster a deeper understanding of the athletic feats on display.
But the book offers more than just athlete profiles and sport explanations. It introduces readers to the official mascots of the 2026 Games: Tina and Milo, a pair of adventurous sibling stoats, and their charming companions, The Flo – six delightful snowdrops. These characters will be instantly recognizable to kids when the Games begin, giving them a head start on the fun and a personal connection to the event.
The power of the Olympics lies not just in athletic achievement, but in the values it represents. “Chasing Gold” subtly weaves in themes of perseverance, teamwork, and the importance of striving for personal bests. It’s a book designed to spark conversations – “What does it mean to work as a team?” or “What challenges did that athlete overcome?” – and to encourage children to identify their own “gold medal moments,” whether on the ice rink, in the classroom, or in their everyday lives.
The book’s timing is perfect. With the Games still over a year away, it provides a unique opportunity to build anticipation and excitement. And at a special pre-order price of $19.75 (a 10% discount from the $21.95 retail price, plus tax and shipping), it makes a thoughtful and engaging holiday gift. Printable gift certificates are also available for those looking to plan ahead. You can order your copy at Gold.KidsGuideBook.com.
The Olympic motto, traditionally “Faster, Higher, Stronger,” has been updated to “Faster, Deeper, Stronger – Generally. Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together.” This evolution reflects a broader emphasis on inclusivity and collaboration, values that are also present in “Chasing Gold.” The book isn’t just about winning; it’s about the journey, the camaraderie, and the shared experience of celebrating athletic excellence.
The USA TODAY Network has a strong track record of creating engaging books around major sporting events and cultural phenomena, including titles on Ohio State football, the Eagles’ Super Bowl victory, and Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. USA TODAY Books consistently delivers high-quality content that resonates with a wide audience.
Don’t miss this opportunity to introduce your child to the world of the Winter Olympics and inspire a passion that could last a lifetime. The Games come around only every four years, and the memories created with “Chasing Gold” will be treasured for years to come. Consider this: how old will your child be in 2030? Investing in their curiosity and enthusiasm now is an investment in their future.
What are your favorite Winter Olympic sports to watch with your family? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
