Mamie “Peanut” Johnson had one dream: to play professional baseball. She was a talented player, but she wasn’t welcome in the segregated All-American Girls Pro Baseball League due to the color of her skin. However, a greater opportunity came her way in 1953 when Johnson signed to play ball for the Negro Leagues’ Indianapolis Clowns, becoming the first female pitcher to play on a men’s professional team. During the three years she pitched for the Clowns, her record was an impressive 33-8. But more importantly, she broke ground for other female athletes and for women everywhere.
My Review:
Leah Henderson is starting 2020 off with a fantastic new book about the incredibly talented Mamie Johnson. Mamie “Peanut” Johnson was an amazing trailblazer in the world of women’s baseball. She grew up in New Jersey with a passion for baseball, and a determination to be the best. Mamie joined the Negro Leagues and broke several records. She overcame the prejudice and segregation of the 1950s to fulfill her dream and challenge the expectations of others. The illustrations by George Doutsiopoulos are rich in color and detail. The back of the book has more information about the baseball player as well as a black and white photo of Mamie Johnson. Leah Henderson wrote a well-researched nonfiction text that is perfect for Black History Month, as well as National Women’s Month. A must-have for school and classroom libraries.
Ages 5 and up
32 Pages
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