Joan Ryan

About the Author

Joan Ryan is an acclaimed investigative journalist and author whose incisive work exposes the hidden pressures and triumphs within the world of elite youth sports. With a background in reporting for major newspapers, she brings a sharp eye and empathetic voice to her examinations of how societal expectations shape young athletes. Her seminal book, Little Girls in Pretty Boxes, delves into the intense culture of competitive gymnastics and figure skating, revealing the physical and emotional toll on girls striving for perfection. Ryan's writing challenges readers to reconsider the cost of ambition in sports, advocating for healthier approaches to training and competition. Through her storytelling, she highlights resilience and reform, making her a vital voice in sports journalism and women's issues.