"The topics include a personal memoir of a young Jewish boy's excitement over Robinson's debut; a surprising study of baseball attendance during Robinson's early career; and an essay that contrasts Robinson's response to racism with those of fellow black baseball pioneers Monte Irvin and Roy Campanella. The last two years have seen an abundance of Robinson material published of varying merit. This collection rises near the top of the field based on its freshness (all original pieces), diverse topics, and unique voices. In addition, Erskine's heartfelt tribute to Robinson as a friend is guaranteed to cause an ache in even the hardest heart." --Booklist

"A major contribution to the scholarship and anecdote of this critical historical event. It should be required reading for students of the game as well as students of the American civil rights movement in the latter half of this century." --Elysian Fields Quarterly

"An indispensable analysis of the legendary baseball player as an individual and as a racial symbol. ... A feast of facts and insights for any connoisseur of the great American pastime.--The Washington Times

"A fine survey of social conditions changed by Robinson's achievements."
--The Midwest Book Review

"The essays ask the reader to reflect on the condition of the US in the aftermath of WW II, to recall that baseball in that era was an aspect of national self-identification, to ponder the ways in which the US has in fact changed since 1947, and to honor the courage of the great man who stood in the center of the storm. For all libraries." --Choice