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The astonishing life story from one of Australia's most inspirational athletes.

Dylan Alcott has never let his disability get in the way of what he wanted to achieve. His family treated him no differently to any other kid, and it was the best thing they ever did. Growing up, Dylan always had a positive attitude to life. So when he discovered sport, he’d have a go at anything and could always be found at the centre of the action, giving his best and playing to win. Then he tried wheelchair basketball and tennis and was hooked.

Fast forward ten years or so, and the now three-time Paralympic gold medallist, Order of Australia recipient, Grand Slam tennis champion and philanthropist combines elite sport with a love for music (he’s a triple j radio announcer and is famous for his crowd-surfing). But Dylan’s greatest passion is changing the way those with disabilities are perceived, and to inspire young people – whether they have disabilities or are able-bodied – to achieve their dreams. It’s a passion that drives him every day of his life.

In Able, Dylan shares his story. It’s the tale of someone who’s proud of who he is, who has a go, does everything with heart and soul, who always sees the upside and never takes himself too seriously. As inspiring, honest and funny as its author, Able proves that for every one thing you can’t do, there are 10,000 things that you can.

APPLE BOOKS REVIEW

A celebration of spirit both on and off the court, Dylan Alcott’s memoir is just as empowering as his multiple Paralympic and Australian Open triumphs. Born with a tumour near his spinal cord, Alcott endured his first surgery at just five weeks old before transitioning from a stroller to a wheelchair at age four and becoming a Paralympic champion after high school. Alcott’s resilient attitude drives this self-narrated audiobook, as does his infectious passion for sport, music and everyday life. He delivers dramatic renderings of critical games and funny accounts of his world travels, while also recounting appearing on stage with Queens of the Stone Age and Wu-Tang Clan (even rapping with the latter). Whether revisiting his inspiring basketball and tennis glories or a lifetime of difficult medical procedures, Alcott is both a warm, honest athlete and an advocate.

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