Author Biography

Leah Henderson was one of only two girls on a highly competitive "all-boys" traveling soccer team when she was young, so Mamie's desire to play ball echoed her own. Leah writes for young readers of all ages, and her books include Children's Africana Book Awards notable and Bank Street Best Books of 2017, One Shadow on the Wall. She is a mentor, and avid traveler, and her volunteer work has roots in West Africa. Leah holds an MFA in Writing and is on faculty in Spalding University's MFA program. When she is not traveling or off playing soccer with her dog at midnight, you can find her at home in Washington, D.C. George Doutsiopoulos graduated from the School of Economics of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece in 2005, but he decided to pursue a career in illustration, his true passion. In 2006, he won a prestigious comic competition and received a three-year, full scholarship to AKTO Applied Arts College in Athens, Greece. He has created illustrations for publishing houses like Scholastic and Heinemann, gaming companies, and other companies in the United States, Europe, and Asia. He specializes in illustrations for books, children's books, board games, online games and advertising. In addition, George teaches drawing, sketching and illustration to both children and adults

Review

Thanks to the Ellen Klages middle grade novel Out of Left Field, I already had a rudimentary knowledge of the lives of Mamie "Peanut" Johnson, Toni Stone, and Connie Morgan. Even so, this picture book focuses its attention squarely on Johnson alone from childhood to an Afterword that talks about the many honors she received late in life. Leah Henderson is having quite the year herself! Between this and The Magic in Changing Your Stars, she's cranking out some high quality fiction and nonfiction alike. There were a number of things I liked about this book, including the ways in which Henderson eschews faux dialogue and has this extensive list of Source Notes with direct quotes, as well as a Select Bibliography for consideration. The illustrator, George Doutsiopoulos, is Greek and insofar as I can tell this may be his first book published here in the States. He better keep at it, because there's a twinkle in Mamie's eyes in this book that's difficult to capture in illustration. This isn't the first picture book bio of a Black woman in baseball, but it's certainly one of the best you'll find. In a league of its own.--Elizabeth Bird "A Fuse 8 Production, 31 Days, 31 Lists: 2020 American History Titles for Kids"
African American Mamie Johnson was just six years old when her uncle started to teach her about baseball and she soon proved to be a natural pitcher. Her talents were so remarkable that, as a child, she won a spot on the roster of an all-white boys' team, helping them win two division championships. Though she was able to break the color and gender barrier as a child, Mamie was not even allowed to try out for the segregated All American Girls Professional Baseball League when she graduated from high school, despite her talent. In 1953 she was drafted by the Indianapolis Clowns, making her one of the few women to play in the Negro Leagues, and her small stature earned her the nickname "Peanut." This well researched picture-book biography brings to life a little-known athlete who deserves much more attention and fame. (Ages 6-10)-- "Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)"
In this biography of Mamie "Peanut" Johnson...Henderson focuses on Johnson's determination and passion for the sport. . . .Johnson's grit appeals: "She would say, 'Don't emphasize the hardness of it, ' because she and the other players were doing what they wanted to do--playing the game they loved." Smoothly exaggerated realism gives Doutsiopoulos's illustrations an engaging cartoon flair.-- "Publishers Weekly"
The colorful, expressive artwork highlights Johnson's joy while also showing the oppressive racism faced by the ball player and her teammates. The afterword explains how Johnson's contributions to the sport have resonated through the years, earning recognition from Presidents Clinton and Obama. Readers who are unfamiliar with Johnson will walk away from Henderson's thoughtfully written picture book biography as fans of this resilient, über-talented ballplayer. An important purchase for most collections.-- "School Library Journal"
Through informative prose and muscular illustrations, Mamie emerges as both small in stature and larger than life. . . .The artwork deftly works with the text to provide a memorable reading experience, Mamie's enthusiasm and determination shining from every page. . . .This compelling story of breaking barriers and perseverance is timely and essential. . . .An incredible tribute to an African American woman who dismantled racial and gender obstacles amid the civil rights movement.-- "Kirkus Reviews"

Review Quote

Through informative prose and muscular illustrations, Mamie emerges as both small in stature and larger than life. . . .The artwork deftly works with the text to provide a memorable reading experience, Mamie's enthusiasm and determination shining from every page. . . .This compelling story of breaking barriers and perseverance is timely and essential. . . .An incredible tribute to an African American woman who dismantled racial and gender obstacles amid the civil rights movement.

Promotional "Headline"

Little known story that celebrates both female athletes and trailblazing black athletes; Mamie Johnson overcame the prejudice and segregation of the 1950s to fulfill her dream of playing professional baseball; Fans of today's rising star Mo'ne Davis will love learning about a woman who preceded her; Perfect for spring promotion

Feature

Full color, Glossary, Illustration(s)/Drawing(s), More Resources/Suggestions for Further Reading, Pronunciation Guide, Table of Contents

Details