Relentless Spirit

The Unconventional Raising of a Champion

By: Missy Franklin, D.A. Franklin, Dick Franklin, Daniel Paisner

Narrated by: Emily Rankin

What does it take to become a champion? Gold medalist Missy Franklin, along with her parents, D.A. and Dick, tell the inspirational and heartwarming story of how Missy became both a legendary athlete and a happy and confident woman, something they accomplished by doing things their own way and making the right choices for their family.

The word relentless has many meanings for swimmer Missy Franklin. In the pool, it reminds her to remain steady and persistent, unyielding in intensity and strength. In life, it tells her to reach down for her very best, even when it feels like there’s nothing left. The motto “don’t quit” doesn’t do it for Missy, but relentless gets her where she needs to be. And when Missy faces a challenge or a setback, her relentless spirit is what empowers her to learn, adapt, and move forward into the future.

In Relentless Spirit, Missy and her parents, D.A. and Dick Franklin, share the story of how Missy became the athlete she is today, a six-time Olympic medalist, five of them gold. Since her Olympic debut in London’s 2012 games—when Missy was just seventeen—people who have met the Franklins or seen them on TV have wondered what it was like to raise such a champion. What was the training like? How did Missy handle school? How did the family find the right facilities, coaches, and support network?

The story that Missy, and her parents, share inside is both inspiring and heartwarming, explaining how she became both a legendary athlete and a happy and confident woman, something they accomplished by doing things their own way and making the right choices for their family, which includes Missy’s faith journey, something she writes about with inspirational candor.

Including the highs, the tough moments, and everything in-between, Relentless Spirit tells the story of a woman—and a family—full of love, heart, faith, and resilience.


Read by Emily Rankin, with D.A. and Dick Franklin

Critic reviews

Praise for Relentless Spirit:

"A consistently sunny, family-oriented story of persistence and achievement." —Kirkus Reviews

"Conversational and sincere." —Bustle

This book is awesome!!

This book is one of my favorites. It is so inspirational. I am a swimmer but I defiantly think non swimmers can relate to this book. This book inspires me to push harder and believe every day. Thank you Missy Franklin!!

Physically, emotionally and spiritually complete!!!

I loved this book. It was written from the heart about three people who are living life passionately!!!

MIssy is a sweetheart

Would you consider the audio edition of Relentless Spirit to be better than the print version?

I never read the print version, so I can't compare them.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Relentless Spirit?

What is really great about this book is that it shows the closeness of relationships that Missy Franklin has with her parents. She loves them so muc and is supported so well by them that she had them write their takes on things throughout the book. You get their perspectives, and it is really sweet and encouraging.

Which scene was your favorite?

I loved learning how her parents met and the story of how she came to be, which I had no idea about until listening to this book!

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

The Thankful Child Olympian

Any additional comments?

Just to let you guys know, Missy does talk about her faith throughout this book, but she is never preachy at all and is really respectful of those who believe differently than herself. She just tells her story and how she came to become a Chistian, but she doesn't go into theology or anything like that. I mean, it seems even her parents are not Christians, so that is why she does as she does, because they all have deep love and respect for one another despite any differences. THIS is how a story should be written!

Authentic and inspiring

To hear about Missy’s development both in and out of the pool was fascinating and inspiring. Her parents’ love and support is exemplary and their deep commitment to their daughter’s well-being through the ups and downs brought me to tears a few times. Missy is so much more than record breaking swimmer—her grace, wisdom, tenacity, and leadership make her a unique leader and role model.

Wow

Absolutely love this book and the presentation. Missy and her family are so inspiring. Missy we love you and will always support you!!