Did anyone have “boxing legend writes wholesome children’s book” on their 2024 bingo card? Because Laila Ali just body-slammed the publishing world with “A Spark of Greatness,” a picture book autobiography that’s serving major inspiration realness — and honestly, we’re not mad about it.
The undefeated champ (24-0, 21 KOs, thank you very much) told People that every book on her nightstand leaves her feeling like a “better person.” Goals. While the rest of us are doom-scrolling TikTok at 2 AM, Laila’s out here curating a literary glow-up. The 46-year-old mom of two says she gravitates toward stories about resilience, kindness, and becoming your best self — basically the literary equivalent of a protein shake for your soul.
“A Spark of Greatness” follows little Laila from boxing-obsessed kid to world champion, complete with illustrations that make the sport look adorable instead of terrifying. It’s giving “Little People, Big Dreams” but make it legacy. And can we talk about the irony? The daughter of The Greatest writing a book about finding your own greatness? Muhammad Ali would 100% be posting this on his Instagram Story with twelve heart emojis.
Fans are eating it up. “Buying this for my niece AND myself,” wrote one commenter. Another added: “Laila Ali could write a grocery list and I’d buy it.” The book dropped this week and is already climbing Amazon’s children’s sports biography charts — because nothing says “bedtime story” like a two-time Super Middleweight champion teaching your toddler to throw a metaphorical jab at self-doubt.
What do you think? A) Laila’s knockout pivot to kid-lit is the cutest thing ever B) Stick to the ring, champ — leave the bedtime stories to the pros