Kenneth Rudeen

Biographies are important to read because they allow the reader to understand and learn about someone in history. This autobiography allows the reader to learn about the struggles that Jackie Robinson went through when trying to become a famous baseball player. I enjoyed this story because I did not know that much about Jackie Robinson. This book was very informative to me as a reader. I liked the detail that the author provided in this book. For example, he clearly describes the challenges that Jackie faced when he was playing in the major leagues. “…players used the spikes on their shoes to cut Jackie’s legs.” I think this clearly shows the reader the difficulties that Jackie faced as a ballplayer. The main message in this book is perseverance. This story shows the reader what can come when they stick with something they believe in and love. This book clearly describes the struggles and patience that Jackie Robinson experienced as the first African American baseball player to make it to the major leagues. Overall, I enjoyed this book.… (meer)

I really liked this book. I enjoyed this book for two reasons. I like that is in broken up into chapters, but still has pictures in it, both photographed and drawn. I also like that the book didn't jump right into Jackie’s Life, but mentioned many things that happened for the first time in American history. For example, it says “Charles Lindbergh was the first man to fly alone across the Atlantic Ocean. Neil Armstrong was the first man to step on the moon.” (1). I also liked that the book talked about his personal life and how he became a Dodger. I really like it tells you some things you don’t learn in other books. For example, “players used the spikes on their baseball shoes to cut Jackie’s legs. When he came to the plate to bat, some pitchers threw the ball straight at his head” (43-44). This book will give students insight into the life of Jackie Robinson that they didn't learn in other books or through watching shows and movies or documentaries about his life.… (meer)