The United States v. Jackie Robinson

• Age Range:  4 - 8 years

• Grade Level: Preschool - 3

• Junior Library Guild Selection 2018

• ALSC Notable Children's Books 2019

• Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers 2019

SUMMARY

Jackie Robinson broke boundaries as the first African American player in Major League Baseball. But long before Jackie changed the world in a Dodger uniform, he did it in an army uniform.

As a soldier during World War II, Jackie experienced segregation every day. When the army outlawed segregation on military posts and buses, things were supposed to change. Jackie would stand up for what was right, even when it was difficult.

This nonfiction picture book is a powerful choice for sharing at home or in the classroom—as Booklist noted: "A story that will appeal to both baseball fans and those looking for an interesting way to highlight lesser-known aspects of the fight for civil rights.”

With an author's note, a timeline, bibliography, and more, this book offers helpful resources for readers, teachers, and librarians to find out more about Jackie Robinson and the history of civil rights in the US.

REVIEWS

“It’s nice to have an athlete celebrated for personal integrity over physical prowess, and R. Gregory Christie’s pictures bolster this, evoking a Robinson who is strong and sure, but also smiling, warm, and ultimately, triumphant.” —New York Times Book Review 

“[A] well-told biography…complemented by Christie’s dramatic expressionistic…illustrations”—The Horn Book

“Kids will feast on this deliciously scary tale over and over.”—Kirkus Reviews