Book description
The true story of John Meyers and Charles Bender, who in 1911 became the first two Native pro baseball players to face off in a World Series. This picture book teaches important lessons about resilience, doing what you love in the face of injustice, and the fight for Native American…
Why read it?
1 author picked Contenders as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
There are lots of books about famous White and Black baseball players, but there are few books about Native pro baseball players, and definitely not about two!
This dual biography of NY Giants power hitter John Meyers and Charles “Al” Bender, pitcher for the Philadelphia Athletics, who faced off in the 1911 World Series features realistic illustrations bordered with traditional designs, bookended with the play-by-play of the game.
More than baseball, Sorell’s text addresses the adversity both players overcame, along with the prejudice and injustices they faced, for the love of the game. Injustices, Sorell points out, Native players still…
From Kelly's list on baseball players of color for little sluggers.
If you love Contenders...
The Eye of Ra
Gold Recipient, Mom's Choice Awards Honoring Excellence.
Silver Medal in Children's Adventure, 2020 International Readers' Favorite Awards.
Award-winning Finalist, Next Generation Book Awards.
1st Place in both Children's Adventure AND Grades 4th-6th, 2020 TopShelf Awards.
Grand Prize Winner, Colorado Author Project.
1st Place, Gertrude Warner Middle Grade Fiction Award.
Exploring…
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