Author Description

The story of Negro League baseball is the story of gifted athletes and determined owners; of racial discrimination and international sportsmanship; of fortunes won and lost; of triumphs and defeats on and off the field. Most of all, the story of the Negro Leagues is about the unsung heroes who overcame segregation, hatred, terrible conditions, and low pay to do the one thing they loved more than anything else: play ball. Nelson tells the story of Negro League baseball from the 1920s through its decline after Jackie Robinson crossed over to the majors in 1947. What makes this book so outstanding are the dozens of full-color oil paintings -- breathtaking in their perspectives, rich in emotion, and created with affection for these lost heroes of our national game.