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Book details

Pitching for the Stars: My Seasons Across the Color Line

Pitching for the Stars: My Seasons Across the Color Line

Description

The author of the memoir Our White Boy tells his story for younger readers: in 1959 Carl Sedberry, team manager of the Wichita Falls/Graham Stars successfully recruits their first white player, pitcher Jerry Craft. During the next two years, the team plays baseball together in the West Texas Colored League while listening to their manager's observations about sports and life, experiences that will change them forever. Craft relates an unlikely story of respect, character, humor, and ultimately friendship with Mr. Sedberry and his boys as the teammates pulled together to succeed in a game they all loved.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
136 pages
Book in series
#1

Why to read

  • Historical Insight: 'Pitching for the Stars: My Seasons Across the Color Line' offers readers a unique perspective on the racial integration of baseball, providing an in-depth look at the challenges and triumphs of African American players during a pivotal time in sports history.
  • Inspiration: Jerry Craft's personal journey through the ranks of baseball, facing and overcoming adversity, serves as an inspiring narrative for readers who are interested in stories of perseverance and determination in the face of systemic discrimination.
  • Cultural Significance: The book delves into the broader context of the Civil Rights Movement and the role that sports, particularly baseball, played in advancing racial equality, making it a significant read for those interested in American culture and social change.
  • Personal Growth: Through the lens of baseball, 'Pitching for the Stars' explores themes of teamwork, leadership, and personal development, offering valuable lessons that extend beyond the sport and can be applied to various aspects of life.