Stealing Home

Nine-year-old Joey Sexton, living in the Bronx in 1947, has just lost his mother and discovers that his estranged father has also died. He is surprised to find out that his mother's sister, whom he has never met, is willing to welcome him into her home. While he immediately strikes up a friendship with his cousin, the rest of the family and their neighbors aren't as accepting since Joey is what they call a "half-breed," born to a Jewish mother and an African-American father. Inspired by Jackie Robinson, and with the support of his cousin and aunt, Joey learns how to shake off the taunts of the neighborhood bullies, gains an appreciation for his Jewish heritage, and builds a loving a respectful relationship with his grandfather. Ellen Schwartz tells a heartwarming and poignant story of racial tension, family, belonging, and baseball which will especially appeal to boys. Recommended for all libraries, it would also make a great selection for a book discussion group.