While Jackie Robinson was the first African American to play Major League Baseball, it wasn’t until 24 years later, at an otherwise insignificant game, where the whole starting lineup for a team was composed of Black and Latino players. This first in MLB history happened when the Pittsburgh Pirates started all 9 players of color against the Philadelphia Phillies in 1971. To remember and celebrate the 50th anniversary of this event, here are some books about the history of African American baseball players available at the Chatham Area Public Library.
Shades of Glory by Lawrence Hogan is packed with stories, biographical essays, and archival photographs about the Negro Leagues and African American baseball. The book is an important contribution to sports history and a fitting tribute to legendary baseball stars such as Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson, Martin Dihigo, Cool Papa Bell, and many more, who were shadowed by racial prejudice. Color Blind by Tom Dunkel traces the rise of a Bismarck integrated squad and follows them through their ups and downs, focusing on the 1935 season, and the first National Semi-Pro Tournament in Wichita, Kansas. Oscar Charleston: the life and legend of baseball’s greatest forgotten player by Jeremy Beer introduces readers to one of America’s forgotten athletes. Due to his combined record as a player, manager, and scout, he’s considered the most accomplished figure in black baseball history.
Young readers might enjoy We are the Ship by author and illustrator Kadir Nelson. It’s the story of Negro League baseball from its beginnings in the 1920s through the decline after Jackie Robinson crossed over to the majors in 1947. Clemente! by Willie Perdomo is about a boy who learns about his namesake, the great baseball player Roberto Clemente. The Hero Two Doors Down by Sharon Robinson is based on the true story of a friendship between a boy and a legend. Eight year old Steve is thrilled to find out that Jackie Robinson has moved into his Jewish neighborhood in Brooklyn in 1948, although many of his neighbors are not. When Steve actually meets his hero he is even more excited--and worried that a misunderstanding over a Christmas tree could damage his new friendship.
Read these, any many more books, about Black and Latino players and their contribution to baseball this month. All available for free from the Chatham Area Public Library.