Call Him Jack: The Story of Jackie Robinson, Black Freedom Fighter

In this eye-opening biography, Williams (The Black Panthers, for adults) and Long (Three Lines in a Circle) detail the varied personal history of Jack Roosevelt Robinson (1919–1972), best known for being the first Black MLB player. In a beginning note, the authors contextualize quotations containing racist slurs: “We think it’s important for readers to know—and feel—the words that white people used when trying to hurt Jack and other Black Americans.” The book discusses how, throughout his life, Robinson felt as if he needed to be an “acceptable guest” to succeed in the athletic world. But beyond his sports persona, Robinson considered himself a “relentless and uncompromising Black freedom fighter,” outspoken in his beliefs. Without minimizing Robinson’s historic athletic prowess, the creators provide a potent look into his civil rights achievements by highlighting key moments from his life, including marching for integrated schools and raising money for burned churches in Birmingham. This well-researched volume—which includes b&w photographs throughout, accompanied by brief sidebars explaining key historical events—skillfully highlights one prominent Black figure’s impact on America’s history both on and off the ball field. Additional information concludes. Ages 10–14. (Sept.)