Pages :- 191
Genres :- Sports, History
Rating :- 10 yrs +
Author :- Bert Schwartz
Synopsis :-
This book covers a collection of the lives and achievements of great athletes such as Jackie Robinson, Jesse Owens, Bob GIbson, etc. It also speaks of Superstars of Tomorrow such as, O.J. Simpson, Perry Williams, etc.
The Review:-
This is a piece of work that I’m not accustomed to reading; however as I continued to read, it proved to be a very good read.
The book is centered on the lives of those black athletes who made a name on history’s page. It is interesting to read how their lives began. Most, if not all of them, did not have a very privileged start in life but they did not allow that to stop them from attaining what they set their hearts on.
Another obstacle that proved trying in that era, was the racial inequality. I applaud the way they conducted themselves despite the circumstances. They were comfortable in their skin, and did not allow coach, fan or anyone to make them feel inferior.
Some of the situations that these athletes have been in I have found myself in as well. For example, there are times where others may say that those of colour are lazy, like to have the latest of everything and don’t have proper houses or they speak weirdly. However, these things do not solely describe people of colour but people of every clime all over the world.
People all over the world can also be very hardworking and aspire to create safe havens for themselves; and yes, even speak proper English despite their different accents.
I think that this collection of history is inspiring to those who read it and helps to shed a light not only on the past but on the potential of what we can take away from these great men and apply to our daily lives and dreams.
We’ve given Great Black Athletes a rating of 10 out of 10. I enjoyed reading about the lives of these men and it was such a breath of fresh air that was needed.
Stay Tuned For One Of My Favorite Quotes!
“He has often expressed his disdain for stereotypes that racists used to pigeonhole negroes- as, for instance, that they are lazy, that they like to drive expensive cars although they don’t have decent homes, that they all speak in their own quaint jargon.” - (Bob Gibson pg. 160)
What do you think about this book? Do you agree with our rating? Let us know what you think in the comments!
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