Hall of Fame DNA: The Legacy of Norman "Turkey" Stearnes

by Vanessa Ivy Rose

The story of Norman "Turkey" Stearnes is one of greatness hidden in plain sight. According to baseball statistics and four Hall of Fame inductions, he is one of the all-time greats, yet many people have never heard his name. In this sports biography and memoir fusion, Vanessa Ivy Rose gives the play-by-play. Written as a conversation with Turkey, she details what makes her grandfather an unforgettable legend, both on and off the field.

121 pages, Paperback

Published May 7, 2023

Reviews

[Barb Kilkka · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an inspiring (and inspired) love letter to the grandfather the author never knew, except through the admiring voices of those who attested not only to his athletic prowess but also to his shining character. Kudos to author Vanessa Ivy Rose in her search to find and share the legend of Norman “Turkey” Stearnes, one of baseball’s all-time-greats.

[Sue Herrmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Turkey Stearnes is the baseball legend you may have never heard of, but should be a name all baseball lovers know. If you love history or baseball, you will love this book….a conversation between a granddaughter and her grandfather filled with history, baseball, and family.

[Bradley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a metro Detroiter and I'm glad that this book exists. It's a love letter from the author to her grandfather, the legendary Turkey Stearnes. Where Turkey played for the Detroit Stars in the Negro League, not a lot of baseball fans know his story. Now that the MLB has added statistics from the Negro Leagues to the Major League historical record more people might know is name.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reads like a meditation. Not quite what I expected, but it's interesting how much love you can have for a relative you never met. Also, the family photos are a win.