All Star: How Larry Doby Smashed the Color Barrier in Baseball

Larry Doby (1923–2003), the first Black baseball player to play in the American League and the second to play in the major leagues, takes center stage in this picture book biography by Vernick, which opens with the figure’s childhood in an unsegregated South Carolina neighborhood. Interspersed with Doby’s quotes, and highlighting his milestones in baseball as well as the bigotry he faced, the narrative emphasizes change as an ongoing process: “The door was closed to Black players.... His world didn’t even allow him to dream of reaching the major leagues. The world would have to change.” Chapman’s subtly textured, poster-style digital spreads emphasize stylized figures from varying angles, rendered in a subdued vintage-toned palette. This worthy spotlight on a baseball hero will also serve as a solid discussion opener about ongoing racism and discrimination in sports. Back matter includes an author’s note and selected bibliography. Ages 4–7. (Jan.)