We are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball

Module 4: Book Review 3

Bibliography

Nelson, K. (2008). We are the ship: the story of Negro League baseball. Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Children.

ISBN: 0786808322

Plot Summary

We are the Ship is an inspirational nonfiction book that tells the story of the Negro League. This book is organized by innings instead of chapters to follow the game of baseball. A "Gentlemen's Agreement" among white pro-baseball owners to systematically remove Black players led to the rise of new leagues and owners.

Andrew “Rube” Foster, a journeyman player/manager, took the Leland Giants and exhibited just what a colored team could be. Changing the style of play from the Major League teams, Rube and his giants “Bunt-and-ran” audience members into the bleachers. After proven success, other colored team owners/managers gathered to officially make the Negro National League in 1920. This book tells their story through the financial ups and downs, the treatment of players, how they played the game, and the eventual crossing of Jackie Robinson into the Major Leagues.

Critical Analysis

WE ARE THE SHIP is an inspirational read for 10-year-olds and up, and well-tailored for those who love the game of baseball. Kadir Nelson’s use of resources was fairly narrow, though. Of the 42 references, 3 individuals, Holway, Burns, and Refocus Films, accounted for 37 of the references. This narrowness might limit some of the accuracy of the thoughts and reasoning behind events, outside of direct quotes from players and managers. The chapter's organization did play well for the reader's interest. Each chapter had a theme describing aspects of the game, business, and outside influences. While reading, it mentions Jim Crow laws, the Great Migration, World War I and II, Harlem Renaissance, and as a teacher, my first thought would be to make sure my class had background knowledge on that and a few other events that were important to the story. I want my students to fully understand what this author is trying to teach about the contributions of these men. To avoid confusing readers, timelines were included in chapters to guide the narrative. Captivating, beautifully executed illustrations, mainly in a baseball card style poses like the white athletes, featured a prominent pullout "First Colored World Series" ticket panorama, effectively highlighting the Negro National and Eastern Colored Leagues' rivalry. I found myself looking at the painting of the players to take in all the details. I could see the emotions and felt the anxiety and love of what they were doing. 

This is a book I would have on my shelf at school and home. The perseverance these men showed lines directly with what we want our children to be like. They took the challenges that came their way head-on, and they did not give up. We can honor their legacy by learning from them and continuing their mindset for the rest of our lives.

Review Excerpts

• Sibert Chair Carol K. Phillips. “This history of the Negro League entices fans and non-fans alike. His stunning oil paintings, based on archival photographs, illustrate grace, pride, and discipline far beyond what words alone might convey.”

Awards and Recognitions

• Winner of the 2009 Coretta Scott King Author Award
• Winner of the 2009 Sibert Medal

Connections

• Have students learn more about segregation in other sports and locations for traveling. 

• Have students learn more about Civil Rights, the Harlem Renaissance, Ku Klux Klan, because it is mentioned in the story. This is background knowledge that can help students comprehend.