Like other books in this author/illustrator duo’s “Ordinary People Who Changed the World” series, this inspired offering delivers a handful of facts to reinforce significant traits about its subject. In the case of Robinson, it’s his athletic talent and his role as a leader within and beyond sports. The blend of brief, engaging, first-person text and fictional speech-bubble commentary work together to advance the themes and outline the story of Robinson’s life, including his accomplishments in baseball and the racism he faced. The visual humor centers around Robinson’s appearance as a child in a baseball uniform and cap with a “B” from his earliest days, a point of occasional speculation in the comic-style dialogue, even in the midst of serious moments. At one point, Jackie describes the segregated pool of his childhood. “Don’t they know how mean that is?” asks one friend. “Trust me, they know,” Jackie replies. “Maybe the 'B’ is for buoyant?” suggests another friend of Jackie’s. In the end, of course, the “B” is for Brooklyn. But also for “brave.” (Ages 6–9)

"We can all be heroes" is the message entertainingly told in this New York Times Bestselling picture-book biography series, with this title focusing on groundbreaking baseball player, Jackie Robinson (Cover may vary)

Jackie Robinson always loved sports, especially baseball. But he lived at a time before the Civil Rights Movement, when the rules weren't fair to African Americans. Even though Jackie was a great athlete, he wasn't allowed on the best teams just because of the color of his skin. Jackie knew that sports were best when everyone, of every color, played together. He became the first Black player in Major League Baseball, and his bravery changed American history and led the way to equality in all sports in America.

This friendly, fun biography series inspired the PBS Kids TV show Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. One great role model at a time, these books encourage kids to dream big. Included in each book are:

   • A timeline of key events in the hero’s history
   • Photos that bring the story more fully to life
   • Comic-book-style illustrations that are irresistibly adorable
   • Childhood moments that influenced the hero
   • Facts that make great conversation-starters
   • A virtue this person embodies: Jackie Robinson's bravery led him to make his mark in baseball history. 

You’ll want to collect each book in this dynamic, informative series!