All Star: How Larry Doby Smashed the Color Barrier in Baseball

The remarkable story of Larry Doby, the first Black baseball player in the American League. 

In 1947, Larry Doby signed with the Cleveland Indians, becoming the first Black player in the American leagues. He endured terrible racism, both from fans and his fellow teammates. Despite this, he became a unifying force on and off the field, and went on to become a seven-time All Star. Illustrated with Cannaday Chapman’s bold, stylized illustrations, this exceptional biography tells the story of an unsung hero who not only opened doors for those behind him, but set amazing records during his Hall of Fame career. More significantly, it examines the long fight to overcome racism in sports and our culture at large, a fight that is far from over. 

This biography for young readers brings an American hero’s story to life:

• An Unsung Hero of Baseball: Learn about Larry Doby, the first Black player in the American League, who broke barriers just eleven weeks after Jackie Robinson.
• Overcoming Adversity: A powerful, age-appropriate introduction to the Civil Rights movement and the story of facing down racism with courage and dignity.
• Inspirational Sports Story: Follow Larry’s journey from the Negro Leagues to becoming a seven-time All-Star and a Hall of Fame legend.
• Stunning Illustrations: Vibrant, stylized art by Cannaday Chapman makes this an engaging and beautiful book for read-alouds and young history lovers.

"Chapman’s textured digital art effectively makes use of interesting perspectives to create striking visuals...An important story that we still have a lot to learn from." - Kirkus Reviews

“This worthy spotlight on a baseball hero will also serve as a solid discussion opener about ongoing racism and discrimination in sports.”  - Publishers Weekly

“This is a balanced account of one player’s brilliant achievements and the ongoing struggle for racial equality in sports and society.”   - Horn Book Magazine

“The narrative focuses on [Doby’s] ability to achieve his dreams through hard work and endurance […] An appealing depiction of Doby growing from an athletic boy to a man who helped pave the way for other Black baseball players.” - Booklist