Larry Doby: The Struggle of the American League's First Black Player

Thoroughly researched and beautifully written, this inspiring tale chronicles the life of the second black player to reach the Major Leagues. In 1947 Larry Doby joined the Cleveland Indians, integrating the American League eleven weeks after Jackie Robinson's first appearance with the Brooklyn Dodgers. A seven-time All Star, Doby hit 253 home runs, drove in nearly 1,000 runs, and performed with distinction in the 1948 World Series. While achieving those remarkable statistics, he faced the same prejudices that plagued Robinson — but with far less media attention and support.

The story of Doby's struggles constitutes a critical chapter in African-American history and the Civil Rights movement. This captivating account of his triumph over bigotry and injustice was praised by The New York Times Book Review as "a tribute to both its author and Larry Doby." Now available in an updated edition, it features a new Introduction, an additional chapter that covers Doby's 1998 induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame, and a selection of new photographs.

Joseph Thomas Moore is Professor Emeritus of History and Social Studies Education at Montclair State University in New Jersey and the author of its centennial history. He served as principal consultant on Bud Greenspan's 90-minute 2007 Showtime film on the life of Larry Doby and has published books and articles about war and teaching.
The original edition of this volume won the Carter G. Woodson Award for Excellence, received positive reviews in the print media throughout the United States, and has been deemed by a panel of sportswriters to be one of the ten best baseball biographies ever written.