We are the ship

Nelson, K. (2008).  We are the ship.  NY:  Hypercion.

Before the Negro League, there was no official professional league for colored men to play baseball.  They attempted to organize a league, but fell short, due to money and leadership.  A leader was found in Rube Foster.  He possessed the knowledge, money and leadership skills to properly organize and maintain Negro League Baseball.  Still, negro baseball players were treated and payed differently, depending on the team and manager.  Therefore, the players moved around from team to team frequently.  The Negro League was home to many famous baseball players, before the major leagues allowed them to play.  As years went on, Jackie Robinson crossed over to play in the major league, a decision that would change the future of all men and the United States.  We are the ship is the recipient of the Coretta Scott King award.  Kadir Nelson paints magnificent pictures, that portray the time period perfectly.  The paintings and story line accurately portray the lives of so many African American people and the struggles they endured to move into integration.