SYNOPSIS

Third grader and diehard Brooklyn Dodgers fan Steve unexpectedly finds himself living down the street from the Dodgers’ rising star, Jackie Robinson and his young family. 

Steve’s love for baseball and Jackie’s deep kindness toward the boy make the two close friends. 

At Jackie’s invitation, Steve’s school class and their families are invited to celebrate Steve’s birthday at a Dodgers game. 

Through shared experiences, Jackie and Steve teach each other about racism, segregation, religious tolerance, and lifelong friendship. 

(Based on a true story and written by Jackie’s daughter.)

PERFECT AGE 7 – 12

THEMES

• Ethnic / racial acceptance and tolerance
• Challenges for black players in baseball in the 1940s and ‘50s
• Humility, kindness and patience with fellow humans even when you are a star

We love

• The inclusion of rich real-world history for readers to learn about, along with the main story
• Learning about segregation and bias through the eyes of a young boy whose Jewish NY neighborhood is reticent about the arrival of an African American family
• Getting acquainted with a real hero, Jackie Robinson, his personality and his family

WATCH OUT FOR (Language, Big / Sensitive Topics, Outdated Concepts):

• If this is your reader’s first exposure to segregation (in baseball or generally) racism or antisemitism, some pre-read context may be helpful

CONVERSATION STARTERS

• Why did the Dodgers have to travel to the Dominican Republic for training? How do you think that felt for the players?
• What did you learn from the story about the Christmas tree in Steve’s home? Do you think it was easy or difficult for Steve’s dad to change his mind?
• Do you have a real-life hero you’d like to meet? Why do you like them and what would you say to them?