Sharon Robinson (1) (1950–)

An incredible memoir from Sharon Robinson about one of the most important years of the civil rights movement. In January 1963, Sharon Robinson turns thirteen the night before George Wallace declares on national television "segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever" in his inauguration speech as governor of Alabama. It is the beginning of a year that will change the course of American history. As the daughter of baseball legend Jackie Robinson, Sharon has opportunities that show more most people would never dream of experiencing. Her family hosts multiple fund-raisers at their home in Connecticut for the work that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is doing. Sharon sees her first concert after going backstage at the Apollo Theater. And her whole family attends the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. But things don't always feel easy for Sharon. She is one of the only Black children in her wealthy Connecticut neighborhood. Her older brother, Jackie Robinson Jr., is having a hard time trying to live up to his father's famous name, causing some rifts in the family. And Sharon feels isolated-struggling to find her role in the civil rights movement that is taking place across the country. This is the story of how one girl finds her voice in the fight for justice and equality. show less

A really excellent overview of Jackie Robinson's life both in and after baseball. His daughter is the author, but she uses Jackie's own words to illustrate his struggles and his perseverance. The book is divided into sections related to Jackies' nine values to live by and each section has stories, photos, and essays. I found it to be a great way to learn more about Jackie and also a nice review of the Civil Rights struggle in this country. Go #42!

It's powerful to hear stories directly from the Civil Rights movement, and Sharon Robinson has a unique voice -- child of a celebrity, Jackie Robinson. Family in the spotlight at the time, growing up in Connecticut, as one of the few Black families in their neighborhood. It's an interesting contrast of her family's relative wealth and power and the vulnerability of their visibility. Took a while for the narrative to take off, but Sharon's wonderful compassion, her courage, and her family's show more commitment to change is worth waiting for. show less

Testing the Ice is a warm, wonderful story by Jackie’s daughter Sharon, illustrated with the amazing oils of Kadir Nelson. As Sharon tells the story of how her dad braved the ice one winter so she and other kids could go ice skating, you feel as if you are sitting around the living room hearing it live. And it will bring (happy) tears to your eyes!

An author’s note provides additional background on his life.

Evaluation: This book makes a great start for both kids and adults to get an show more intimate glimpse of the real Jackie Robinson, and what his life was like outside of baseball at home with his family. And what better way to do so than with the breathtaking pictures of Kadir Nelson, who adds so immeasurably to any story he illustrates. Highly recommended for all ages! (JAB, who refuses to read any children's book unless Kadir Nelson is involved, not only loved this one, but also had (happy) tears in his eyes at the end!) show less