JACKIE ROBINSON

by Maury Allen ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 29, 1987

The 40th anniversary of Robinson's debut in the major leagues is the occasion for this reminiscence. The first black American to play big-time ball is described in considerable detail by his family, friends, teammates, coaches and others. Robinson was an American success story in a number of ways--poor boy from a large, fatherless family does it all on his own, becomes rich, famous and a historic figure to boot. That would be enough for anyone, except for a man who happened to be black and a pioneer. People like Branch Rickey, Pee Wee Reese, Roy Campanella, Duke Snider, Don Newcombe, Monte Irvin, Leo Durocher and many others speak frankly about him here. By all accounts, he was a good guy to have on your team and a tough opponent. He joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947, a player carefully selected by Rickey because of his character as well as his skill. Many of the great players in the Negro Leagues were passed up--men like Josh Gibson, Cool Papa Bell, Satchel Paige and others--for various reasons. The responsibility fell on a 28-year-old rookie--he would be the first. Robinson was a passionate, gung-ho player made of sturdy stuff. Those who tried to break hint soon gave up. Old-timers will remember Robinson and enjoy this book. However, young baseball fans may have forgotten just what he accomplished and against what odds. He was intelligent and sensitive, and he believed in the good fight. In these days of drugs, big money and misfits, he looks bigger and better than ever.

Pub Date: May 29, 1987

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Watts

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 1987

Categories: NONFICTION