Jewish people have been involved in many aspects of Major League Baseball since its founding. In honor of the upcoming World Series, here are some of our favorite books about baseball:
For younger readers (ages 5-8)
Recommended for ages 8 and up
This story introduces Hank Greenberg, baseball superstar and the first Jewish inductee to the Hall of Fame. Greenberg’s story takes place at a time when “outsiders” were breaking through barriers in American professional sports.
Recommended for ages 8 and up
As a child, Lipman Pike helps out in his family’s dry-goods store in Brooklyn, but what he really loves is baseball, a new ballgame that everyone’s talking about -- and he’s good at it, too. In a few years, Lip’s offered a job playing baseball profesionally! His parents think it’s crazy -- but Lip knows this is the life for him.
Recommended for ages 7-8
This book opens a window into the life of the major league baseball player many called the greatest lefty who ever pitched. Included in this story is Koufax's famous decision to sit out the first game of the 1965 World Series rather than play on Yom Kippur.
For PJ Our Way subscribers (ages 9+)
Recommended for ages 9+
Batter Up! Reuven and Avi, pitcher and catcher, may share the same mom and dad, but only one of them will make it to the All-Star Game...Who will it be?
Recommended for ages 10 and up
Jason's the best pitcher on his Little League team, but he's got a secret that might ruin his entire season. Can he keep his stepfather from finding out?
Recommended for ages 9+
Baseball is a great escape, but can it solve your problems? Nine year-old Joey Sexton has to grow up fast – his African American dad is gone, his Jewish mother just died, and now he has been sent to live with his mother’s family in Brooklyn. Joey’s zayde (grandfather) acts as though Joey can’t do anything right. Sure, Joey can play a mean game of baseball, but is that enough to impress the person whose affection he wants most?
For grownups
An inside look at the world of professional baseball from behind the plate.
A big hit with any baseball fans, this book is full of great interviews with players from several generations.
An indepth look at the history and players of the Israel Baseball League's only season.
Want to learn more about the history of Jews and baseball? Read Forget Peanuts and Cracker Jack. What Jews Love About Baseball Is Jewish Players from Tablet Magazine and Jews & Baseball from My Jewish Learning.
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October 18, 2016