Reviews by Andrea Elson of the Oakland Public Library
Just as Good : How Larry Doby Changed America’s Game
By: Chris Crowe
Expanding on the story of baseball’s racial integration, a family follows the play of the second African-American to play major league baseball, Larry Doby. The story does an excellent job of presenting the historical context and significance of the player who helped prove that Jackie Robinson was no fluke, African-Americans could play ball just as well whites. Recommended for elementary aged children, the book is sure to please any baseball lover and educate fans further on baseball’s pioneer players.
Brothers at Bat : The True Story of an Amazing All-Brother Baseball Team
By: Audrey Vernick
The dream of any father, Brothers at Bat follows the true story of twelve brothers from New Jersey who played on a semiprofessional baseball team in 1938. The tale honors both the love of the game and the love of family. The illustrations add to the story with lively, colorful scenes. The story is heartwarming and reads as true Americana.
And then it’s spring
By: Julie Fogliano
This sweet story that slowly builds to its climax will delight all readers ready for a nice, warm spring. The simple text compliments the simple but detailed illustrations that contain background humor and nuance. The story truly captures the building anticipation for spring from a dark brown winter. The book is much anticipated as the newest project from the Caldecott winning illustrator Erin Stead.
Happy go Ducky!
By Lori Haskins Houran
A charming title to go with a charming beginning reader selection, Happy Go Ducky, tells the story of Max the duck preparing for spring. His silly antics will entertain any beginning reader as goofiness is always a lovable trait. This series of beginning readers is based off the popular picture books, which also feature Max, by Jackie Urbanovic.