Review: Hank on First! How Hank Greenberg Became a Star On and Off the Field
Hank on First! How Hank Greenberg Became a Star On and Off the Field by Stephen Krensky, illustrated by Alette Straathof Apples & Honey Press (imprint of Behrman House), 2023 Category: Picture Books Reviewer: Belinda Brock Buy at Bookshop.org Hank on First! introduces us to Hank Greenberg, Hall-of-Famer, MVP, and the first Jewish sports superstar. Hank felt that "he had the best job ever—playing first base for the Detroit Tigers." But then the reader learns about the struggles Hank encountered along the way: his Romanian-born parents' initial opposition, the conditions in the minor leagues, and most notably, antisemitism, which he had to deal with throughout his baseball career. He was often subjected to boos and taunts from spectators and even from players on opposing teams. Hank maintained his dignity and used his frustration to fuel his achievements on the field. In 1934, the Tigers were in a tight race to clinch the pennant, but the High Holidays conflicted with ...