by Raymond Angelo Belliotti (2008)
"Ted Williams breathes life into Camus' Sisyphus; Billy Martin's competitiveness recalls Niccolo Machiavelli's take on politics; Satchel Paige echoes wisdom Marcus Aurelius; and DiMaggio's personality cry out for resolution that Nietzsche's doctrine of perspectivism might have given. The book offers a very practical application of Western philosophy by examining these icons of American sport and culture"--Provided by publisher.
Jim Bouton and Eliot Asinof
A story of game-fixing during National League playoffs. In his 38-year career as a baseball umpire Ernie Kolacka never once favored a team, but now he must, to repay a debt to a Korean War buddy in trouble with gamblers.
text by Glenn Stout
Takes an in-depth look at the first African-American to play Major League baseball, at his road to the majors and his Hall of Fame career, focusing on the color barrier that existed for him, and exposing a number of myths concerning Robinson's relationship with Branch Rickey.
Jackie Robinson as told to Alfred Duckett
A straightforward yet inspiring story of what it took to be the first man of color to break into the white world of professional sports. Jackie Robinson's story is more than a telling of his tremendous talent; it is also a recollection that showcases his tenacious spirit, bravery and the courage of his ideals. From the early influences of family and friends, to his time at UCLA, to the army where he challenged racism and Jim Crow laws, Jackie Robinson traces his life to playing in the black leagues, frustrated by the abuses and restrictions of second-class status in professional baseball. As Branch Rickey, president of the Brooklyn Dodgers, began to look around for a player to break the color barrier in 1946, he knew he needed a man of character who could withstand the pressures of his "Noble Experiment." Choosing Robinson gave both of them the chance to prove what they believed in. Struggles that continued in his personal life and in response to the turbulent sixties are interpreted with insight by Robinson and will give listeners an added appreciation for the amazing strength of his character.
Wil Mara
Brief text chronicles the life of the Hall of Fame baseball player who, in 1947, became the first African American to play for a major league team.