Jackie Robinson: He Was the First

In simple, fluid language, Adler writes of the sports hero who paved the way for other minorities by being one of the best athletes of this century. Jackie Robinson wasn't offered fat scholarships or mind-boggling salaries for his sports skills. He simply outplayed and outhit and outran his teammates and became the first black to play major league baseball. Adler emphasizes Robinson's life in sports, mentioning his marriage and children only briefly. The illustrations are serviceable, and help move the action along, but most children will read this because it is so approachable, certain to pique further interest. A list of important dates is included, as is an index. Ages 8-10. (Apr.)