PROMISES TO KEEP

Jackie Robinson’s daughter tells the story of her father’s life and accomplishments, paying particular attention to the profound effect he had on American culture. Robinson writes in a straightforward style that is accessible to young readers without being condescending. Of course, she stresses all the positive aspects of her father’s character, but this is not meant to be a completely objective account. Instead, the reader finds an insider’s view of Robinson as husband, father, and friend, as well as athlete, pioneer, and civil-rights activist. Many of these activities have been ignored, or glossed over, by other biographers of works for children. Illustrated with copious photographs and letters from the family’s private collection, this is a unique perspective on a man whose story has become so much the stuff of legend that the real person is often obscured. An excellent and much-needed addition to the Jackie Robinson story. (Biography. 9-12)