42 Is Not Just a Number: The Odyssey of Jackie Robinson, American Hero

"42 Is Not Just a Number: The Odyssey of Jackie Robinson, American Hero," published on March 12, 2019, is a riveting narrative that unveils the courageous journey of Jackie Robinson, a seminal figure in the fight for racial justice. This biography, crafted by award-winning author Doreen Rappaport, captures the essence of Robinson's battle against racial barriers in sports, highlighting his exceptional talent in baseball, basketball, and football. Despite his prowess, Robinson was relegated to the Negro Leagues—until 1946, when he was chosen by Branch Rickey of the Brooklyn Dodgers to integrate Major League Baseball. Facing relentless discrimination and hostility, Robinson's unyielding courage and discipline not only pioneered change in America's favorite pastime but also challenged the deeply segregated norms of society. Ideal for middle-school readers, this book is a powerful exploration of resilience and the impact one individual can have on changing the course of history.