“That’s just the way things are,” was a philosophy Effa Manley could not accept, even though, as a light-skinned black, she could have taken advantage of it. Whenever she encountered injustice, she fought tirelessly to find a solution. She and her husband founded the Eagles baseball team in the Negro Leagues, and she became a solid, innovative businesswoman who nurtured the players on and off the field. When many Negro League players finally got an opportunity to join the Major Leagues, she fought to negotiate fair terms for the transference of the players’ contracts. Later in life, she campaigned for the inclusion of Negro League players in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Vernick employs a matter-of-fact tone and highly descriptive, accessible language that not only provides a great deal of information but also captures both the essence of the era and Manley’s compassion and strength of character. Tate’s muscular illustrations illuminate and breathe life into the events. He skillfully emphasizes emotions, giving every character a distinct personality and demeanor. Effa became the first woman inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame; readers will cheer. (Picture book/biography. 6-10)
