Set #4:We Are the Ship

Nelson, K. (2008).We are the ship: The story of Negro League baseball. New York: Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Children. The Negro Baseball League was the only arena in which African-American baseball players could compete from the 1920's until the integration of baseball by the magnificent Jackie Robinson in 1947. Negro baseball club owners brought a different style of baseball to the American public. The Negro teams were under funded, harassed, segregated, and tenacious. Eventually, with Jackie Robinson, major league baseball opened up for everyone and the Negro Baseball League dies. The behind the scene stories and player testimonials make this book an informative and accessible read for all sport fans. Nelson's breathtaking paintings of the stars of the colored league pay tribute to the diverse skin colors and uniforms. While prejudice and injustice was pervasive across the nation, courage and excellent play changed a nation. A wonderful book to inspire research on individuals and the role of baseball in America's race relations evolution.