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Candlewick Biographies
Henry Aaron's Dream: Candlewick Biographies
“This rousing tribute should resonate with a wide audience." — School Library Journal (starred review)
Before he was Hammerin’ Hank, Henry Aaron was a young boy growing up in Mobile, Alabama, with what seemed like a foolhardy dream: to be a big-league baseball player. He didn’t have a bat. He didn’t have a ball. And there wasn’t a single black ballplayer in the major leagues. But none of this could stop him. In a captivating biography of Henry Aaron’s young life, Matt Tavares pays inspiring homage to one of baseball’s all-time greats.
Before he was Hammerin’ Hank, Henry Aaron was a young boy growing up in Mobile, Alabama, with what seemed like a foolhardy dream: to be a big-league baseball player. He didn’t have a bat. He didn’t have a ball. And there wasn’t a single black ballplayer in the major leagues. But none of this could stop him. In a captivating biography of Henry Aaron’s young life, Matt Tavares pays inspiring homage to one of baseball’s all-time greats.
48 pages, Hardcover
First published January 12, 2010
3 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Matt Tavares
34 books141 followersMatt Tavares was born in Boston, and grew up surrounded by books and reading. From the time he was very young, his mother read to him every night, and his family made countless trips to the public library. Years later, as a studio art major at Bates College, he rediscovered his love for picture books, and decided to try to make his own.
For his senior thesis project, Matt wrote and illustrated a story called Sebastian's Ball, which eventually became Zachary's Ball, Matt's first published picture book. Zachary's Ball went on to win a Massachusetts Book Award Honor, and was named one of Yankee Magazine's 40 Classic New England Children's Books.
Since then, Matt has published eighteen more books and has won several awards, including three Parents' Choice Gold Awards, an Orbis Pictus Honor, and two ALA Notable books. His artwork has been exhibited at the Museum of American Illustration, the Brandywine River Museum, and the Mazza Museum of Picture Book Art.
When Matt's not working in his studio on his latest book project, he travels the country speaking (and drawing) at schools, libraries, conferences, and bookstores. He has presented at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Eric Carle Museum, the White House Easter Egg Roll, and he's even done a few book signings at Fenway Park.
Matt lives in Maine with his wife, Sarah, and their two daughters.
For his senior thesis project, Matt wrote and illustrated a story called Sebastian's Ball, which eventually became Zachary's Ball, Matt's first published picture book. Zachary's Ball went on to win a Massachusetts Book Award Honor, and was named one of Yankee Magazine's 40 Classic New England Children's Books.
Since then, Matt has published eighteen more books and has won several awards, including three Parents' Choice Gold Awards, an Orbis Pictus Honor, and two ALA Notable books. His artwork has been exhibited at the Museum of American Illustration, the Brandywine River Museum, and the Mazza Museum of Picture Book Art.
When Matt's not working in his studio on his latest book project, he travels the country speaking (and drawing) at schools, libraries, conferences, and bookstores. He has presented at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Eric Carle Museum, the White House Easter Egg Roll, and he's even done a few book signings at Fenway Park.
Matt lives in Maine with his wife, Sarah, and their two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
March 3, 2017
This is a true story about Henry Aaron who grew up in the segregated south and become a professional baseball player.
When growing up, he didn’t have a bat or a ball and no African-American people played in the major leagues. But he still had a dream to become a professional baseball player. This book covers Henry from when (at 12) a baseball field was built for "colored only," to him playing in the Negro Leagues and to when he played his first spring training game for the Braves.
This was a great story that my students absolutely loved! They wanted to keep learning about him, so we googled him and researched photos. Also, I had to pass the book around afterword so they could all see it. They LOVED this book!
When growing up, he didn’t have a bat or a ball and no African-American people played in the major leagues. But he still had a dream to become a professional baseball player. This book covers Henry from when (at 12) a baseball field was built for "colored only," to him playing in the Negro Leagues and to when he played his first spring training game for the Braves.
This was a great story that my students absolutely loved! They wanted to keep learning about him, so we googled him and researched photos. Also, I had to pass the book around afterword so they could all see it. They LOVED this book!
May 31, 2015
Fantastic in every way.
Considering that I don't really like sport stories (or sports in general), and I had no idea who Henry Aaron aka "Hammerin' Hank" was, it's surprising how much I loved this book.
Henry Aaron was a boy with a dream. He wanted to play baseball. At the time there were no black major league players, but he didn't give up and he practiced everyday. Then, Henry's whole world changed: Jackie Robinson played for the Brooklyn Dodgers.
I never thought about it before (the effects of privilege), how it must have been to see someone who was just like you, doing the impossible. It reminded me of Whoopi Goldberg telling about seeing Uhura and knowing that she could be an actress.
Honestly, I found myself in tears by the end. It was so COOL to see this little boy who wanted to be a ball player work his butt off and finally achieve his dream. Matt Tavares perfectly captured the story in very simple language. The illustrations were great.
He was a trailblazer, just like Jackie Robinson, and he faced a lot of discrimination. People can be really cruel.
But Hank didn't let that get him down and now he's one of baseball's legends. Stories of people overcoming the odds and achieving their dreams will never fail to inspire me.
This is my second Candlewick Biography, I'd love to collect them all for my classroom library.
October 18, 2021
Baseball and biography are areas of strength for author Matt Tavares, and Henry Aaron's Dream puts the two together in a picture book. Early 1940s America was a tough place for a black kid like Henry Aaron, who aspired to play pro baseball. The big leagues were for whites only, his father said, but Henry's passion for the game wouldn't let him accept that. In Mobile, Alabama, it was illegal for blacks and whites to play on the same baseball diamond, but when Henry was twelve years old the city built Carver Park. The "COLORED ONLY" sign outside meant Henry and his pals could finally play baseball on a real field. Henry didn't have perfect batting technique—a right-hander, he held the bat with his left hand on top—but he honed his power-hitting skills until they were unmatched by any kid in Mobile.
Things changed for black ballplayers in 1947 when the Brooklyn Dodgers signed second baseman Jackie Robinson. Now Henry's ambition to play Major League Baseball (MLB) was attainable, and he closely followed all news about Jackie. Many white fans yelled profanities and racial slurs at Jackie during games, and some boycotted the team, but Jackie ignored the chatter and emerged as a superstar. Henry felt confident he could do the same. When he and his father attended a Dodgers exhibition game in 1948 and saw Jackie play live, it made Henry more determined than ever to become an MLB player.
By 1951 the Mobile Black Bears, a local semipro team, offered Henry a contract. His mother didn't want him quitting high school, so he signed a limited deal to join the Black Bears only on Sundays when they were in Mobile. Henry's first opportunity to audition for MLB scouts went poorly; they didn't like his small stature and strange grip on the bat, but Henry refused to quit. After high school he joined the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro Leagues. When a scout for the Major League Baseball Braves helped Henry improve his grip on the bat, his offensive efficiency exploded. The Braves tendered him a minor-league contract, and Henry was on the verge of achieving his childhood dream.
Did Henry have the talent to consistently hit against white professional pitchers? He wouldn't know until he faced one, but it turned out he had minimal difficulty making that adjustment. As he worked his way through the minor leagues, Henry faced the same verbal abuse and threats from fans as Jackie Robinson had, but Henry emulated his hero by staying silent and playing the game well. In 1954 the Braves inserted him into their lineup for a spring training game. When they played an exhibition in Alabama before the regular season, throngs of old friends, family, and other proud locals flocked to the ballpark to cheer for Henry. Through hard work, patience, and the discipline to tune out the criticism of hateful people, Henry Aaron had fashioned himself into a Major League Baseball player...and over the next quarter century, he was one of the finest to ever step on a diamond.
Looking back on the United States in the 1940s from our vantage point today, we can easily fail to apprehend how blacks must have felt. Racial segregation was condoned (or at least accepted) by a majority of Americans; defying that meant placing yourself in society's crosshairs. Most people would not look on you kindly. This is the social landscape in which Henry Aaron became a pro ballplayer, even if his trail was made somewhat easier by Jackie Robinson blazing it first. It requires courage to openly stand against society when they are wrong, but in every generation there are individuals who take the risk to do so, and Henry Aaron was among them. I'll rate Henry Aaron's Dream two and a half stars; the themes are solid, but the story drags a bit, and stops short of his prime baseball seasons. By the time Matt Tavares released Growing Up Pedro: How the Martínez Brothers Made It from the Dominican Republic All the Way to the Major Leagues in 2015, he was more adept at condensing an entire sporting career into a compelling picture book. Still, Henry Aaron's Dream is a worthwhile read for kids who love baseball history and are receptive to a good underlying message.
Things changed for black ballplayers in 1947 when the Brooklyn Dodgers signed second baseman Jackie Robinson. Now Henry's ambition to play Major League Baseball (MLB) was attainable, and he closely followed all news about Jackie. Many white fans yelled profanities and racial slurs at Jackie during games, and some boycotted the team, but Jackie ignored the chatter and emerged as a superstar. Henry felt confident he could do the same. When he and his father attended a Dodgers exhibition game in 1948 and saw Jackie play live, it made Henry more determined than ever to become an MLB player.
By 1951 the Mobile Black Bears, a local semipro team, offered Henry a contract. His mother didn't want him quitting high school, so he signed a limited deal to join the Black Bears only on Sundays when they were in Mobile. Henry's first opportunity to audition for MLB scouts went poorly; they didn't like his small stature and strange grip on the bat, but Henry refused to quit. After high school he joined the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro Leagues. When a scout for the Major League Baseball Braves helped Henry improve his grip on the bat, his offensive efficiency exploded. The Braves tendered him a minor-league contract, and Henry was on the verge of achieving his childhood dream.
Did Henry have the talent to consistently hit against white professional pitchers? He wouldn't know until he faced one, but it turned out he had minimal difficulty making that adjustment. As he worked his way through the minor leagues, Henry faced the same verbal abuse and threats from fans as Jackie Robinson had, but Henry emulated his hero by staying silent and playing the game well. In 1954 the Braves inserted him into their lineup for a spring training game. When they played an exhibition in Alabama before the regular season, throngs of old friends, family, and other proud locals flocked to the ballpark to cheer for Henry. Through hard work, patience, and the discipline to tune out the criticism of hateful people, Henry Aaron had fashioned himself into a Major League Baseball player...and over the next quarter century, he was one of the finest to ever step on a diamond.
Looking back on the United States in the 1940s from our vantage point today, we can easily fail to apprehend how blacks must have felt. Racial segregation was condoned (or at least accepted) by a majority of Americans; defying that meant placing yourself in society's crosshairs. Most people would not look on you kindly. This is the social landscape in which Henry Aaron became a pro ballplayer, even if his trail was made somewhat easier by Jackie Robinson blazing it first. It requires courage to openly stand against society when they are wrong, but in every generation there are individuals who take the risk to do so, and Henry Aaron was among them. I'll rate Henry Aaron's Dream two and a half stars; the themes are solid, but the story drags a bit, and stops short of his prime baseball seasons. By the time Matt Tavares released Growing Up Pedro: How the Martínez Brothers Made It from the Dominican Republic All the Way to the Major Leagues in 2015, he was more adept at condensing an entire sporting career into a compelling picture book. Still, Henry Aaron's Dream is a worthwhile read for kids who love baseball history and are receptive to a good underlying message.
March 3, 2011
There are a lot of books about Jackie Robinson, but this book has an interesting perspective--it looks at how Robinson's breakthrough to the Major Leagues was a seminal moment in the life of Henry Aaron.
The illustrations are incredibly rich with detail. I have at least two favorites: there is one in which Tavares has Aaron looking at the lineup posted in the dugout with his name in the leadoff spot; another has Aaron sliding in to second base, ahead of the tag being applied by Jackie Robinson. With the first, I recognized some of the players listed for both teams, an element of authenticity that reminds me that with specificity comes credibility. In the latter, I could not help but wonder whether people watching that play in the exhibition game had any idea of what lay in store for Aaron's career. I doubt that any would have believed that he would go on to become baseball's all-time home run leader by the time of his retirement.
Henry Aaron's Dream is much more than a baseball book--it is a marvelous recapturing of attitudes during the Civil Rights movement and a lesson in perseverence. It also reminds us how important it is to have role models and inspirational figures that lend substance to the dreams we pursue. One can only imagine the seismic impact of Barack Obama winning the presidency, the importance of breaking that glass ceiling for African Americans. We are another day closer to no longer referring to people as "the first person of color" to do this, or "the first woman to" do that, and so on. I find it intriguing that, when growing up, I never gave any thought as to Hank Aaron's race. The books always talked about about Robinson and his Dodger teammates (especially Roy Campanella), Larry Doby, Roberto Clemente, and guys like Minnie Minoso and Buck O'Neal. But Aaron's story is integral to understanding race as it impacted baseball, American sports and American culture in general.
This book gives the reader an importance glimpse as to Aaron's development prior to reaching the Show, and I think it is a must-read for baseball enthusiasts, as well as those who are studying African American history. I believe it merits consideration for all ages, although I should note that there are two uses of n-word that could spark trouble if not appropriately addressed. While the use of the word does lend authenticity to the story, it likely spells the end of read-aloud opportunities without changing the word. Some others may believe differently, but I'd suggest a 'courageous coversation' in regards to the implications of the word if it is read aloud.
The illustrations are incredibly rich with detail. I have at least two favorites: there is one in which Tavares has Aaron looking at the lineup posted in the dugout with his name in the leadoff spot; another has Aaron sliding in to second base, ahead of the tag being applied by Jackie Robinson. With the first, I recognized some of the players listed for both teams, an element of authenticity that reminds me that with specificity comes credibility. In the latter, I could not help but wonder whether people watching that play in the exhibition game had any idea of what lay in store for Aaron's career. I doubt that any would have believed that he would go on to become baseball's all-time home run leader by the time of his retirement.
Henry Aaron's Dream is much more than a baseball book--it is a marvelous recapturing of attitudes during the Civil Rights movement and a lesson in perseverence. It also reminds us how important it is to have role models and inspirational figures that lend substance to the dreams we pursue. One can only imagine the seismic impact of Barack Obama winning the presidency, the importance of breaking that glass ceiling for African Americans. We are another day closer to no longer referring to people as "the first person of color" to do this, or "the first woman to" do that, and so on. I find it intriguing that, when growing up, I never gave any thought as to Hank Aaron's race. The books always talked about about Robinson and his Dodger teammates (especially Roy Campanella), Larry Doby, Roberto Clemente, and guys like Minnie Minoso and Buck O'Neal. But Aaron's story is integral to understanding race as it impacted baseball, American sports and American culture in general.
This book gives the reader an importance glimpse as to Aaron's development prior to reaching the Show, and I think it is a must-read for baseball enthusiasts, as well as those who are studying African American history. I believe it merits consideration for all ages, although I should note that there are two uses of n-word that could spark trouble if not appropriately addressed. While the use of the word does lend authenticity to the story, it likely spells the end of read-aloud opportunities without changing the word. Some others may believe differently, but I'd suggest a 'courageous coversation' in regards to the implications of the word if it is read aloud.
October 2, 2017
This inspiring biographical picture book written about Henry “Hank” Aaron would be an excellent read aloud for upper elementary to middle school-aged students. It begins with Henry as a twelve-year-old boy who has a love for baseball, and a desire to play it despite the many obstacles he would have to face. He becomes inspired by his hero, Jackie Robinson, and continues to play baseball and eventually joins a Major League team and sets multiple records of his own!
This book is about perseverance and determination even in the face of odds. It will teach children to stand up for what they believe in and to push towards their dreams despite the current "norms" in society. As a teacher, I think that this would be best read to students so that we could discuss the history and harsh reality of segregation in the United States. Matt Tavares has written a few similar books, so this book could be taught to compare and contrast the lives of athletes, for example, Babe Ruth and Henry Aaron.
This is a "WOW" book for me for many reasons. First, it would spark great discussions about perseverance. This book points out the hardships that both Jackie Robinson and Henry Aaron faced in their career because of their skin color. Additionally, the oversized illustrations in this book are incredibly detailed and realistic. I know that students would be as intrigued by them as I was! Lastly, the Author's Note at the end of the book provides more details of Henry Aaron's career and how he even surpassed Babe Ruth's home run record! This book gives just enough information for readers to feel satisfied, yet I know that this would likely spark curiosity for many readers to seek out more information about him.
This book is about perseverance and determination even in the face of odds. It will teach children to stand up for what they believe in and to push towards their dreams despite the current "norms" in society. As a teacher, I think that this would be best read to students so that we could discuss the history and harsh reality of segregation in the United States. Matt Tavares has written a few similar books, so this book could be taught to compare and contrast the lives of athletes, for example, Babe Ruth and Henry Aaron.
This is a "WOW" book for me for many reasons. First, it would spark great discussions about perseverance. This book points out the hardships that both Jackie Robinson and Henry Aaron faced in their career because of their skin color. Additionally, the oversized illustrations in this book are incredibly detailed and realistic. I know that students would be as intrigued by them as I was! Lastly, the Author's Note at the end of the book provides more details of Henry Aaron's career and how he even surpassed Babe Ruth's home run record! This book gives just enough information for readers to feel satisfied, yet I know that this would likely spark curiosity for many readers to seek out more information about him.
March 30, 2011
I initially selected this book to read because I remembered my Dad talking about going to watch the Milwaukee Braves play when he was a little boy. Henry "Hank" Aaron was one of the players he would tell me about.
As a boy, Henry practiced batting by swinging a broom handle and used rags or tin cans for his baseballs. In the 1940s, there were many ball diamonds in his hometown of Mobile, Alabama where he couldn't play because of the color of his skin. When he turned twelve, a new ball diamond opened, one where the sign read "colored only" instead of "whites only". Henry didn't hold his bat the right way, but he'd play until the night was too dark and until he could hit harder than anyone else at Carver Park.
A year later, Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in big league baseball and Henry Aaron now had a chance at his dream. He heard of the challenges, knew what he would face, but kept working to get into the big leagues. While still in high school, Henry was able to play for a local semi-pro team. When first he had a chance to try out for the Dodgers, he was dismissed as someone too small who played wrong. That didn't stop Henry. The book follows his progress until he makes it into the major leagues and his family sees him play in an exhibition game in Mobile.
The illustrations in this book are gorgeous. This would be a great picture book for not only sports fans, but for discussing civil rights and following dreams. It could also be a good fit for students studying either Alabama or Wisconsin history. Of particular interest to many baseball fans will be the statistics chart at the end of the book.
As a boy, Henry practiced batting by swinging a broom handle and used rags or tin cans for his baseballs. In the 1940s, there were many ball diamonds in his hometown of Mobile, Alabama where he couldn't play because of the color of his skin. When he turned twelve, a new ball diamond opened, one where the sign read "colored only" instead of "whites only". Henry didn't hold his bat the right way, but he'd play until the night was too dark and until he could hit harder than anyone else at Carver Park.
A year later, Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in big league baseball and Henry Aaron now had a chance at his dream. He heard of the challenges, knew what he would face, but kept working to get into the big leagues. While still in high school, Henry was able to play for a local semi-pro team. When first he had a chance to try out for the Dodgers, he was dismissed as someone too small who played wrong. That didn't stop Henry. The book follows his progress until he makes it into the major leagues and his family sees him play in an exhibition game in Mobile.
The illustrations in this book are gorgeous. This would be a great picture book for not only sports fans, but for discussing civil rights and following dreams. It could also be a good fit for students studying either Alabama or Wisconsin history. Of particular interest to many baseball fans will be the statistics chart at the end of the book.
February 12, 2016
I shared this book with my fifth graders and it was a great pick for a read aloud. The stunning paintings do a masterful job of telling the story of Henry Aaron's life as he struggled to become a major league baseball player. As a youngster, Henry's father didn't encourage him to play baseball because there were no teams that would allow black players. Even after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, he still faced discrimination, insults and physical assaults from those who couldn't accept him. As I shared the illustrations and the story, my students were disturbed by the images of Whites Only signs on the baseball field fence and the racial bigotry that was widespread at that time in our history. As the story unfolds, though, many were impressed by Aaron's perseverance through these times. Many of them felt inspired by it. So did I. What an awesome book!
March 7, 2011
Matt Tavares did a nice job on both the text and illustrations for Henry Aaron's Dream. This book would be a wonderful addition to a collection on African Americans who made a difference or a sports collection. It also does a good job of showing what determination, dedication, and perseverance was required for Aaron to reach his dream.
June 4, 2024
Checked this one out because a lady at my library filed a statement of concern about it. Apparently, the use of the n-word was so shocking that she thinks there needs to be a warning about it.
While I appreciate that it's a charged word with a lot of uncomfortable history that I am not qualified to talk about, I do not appreciate that this woman's solution was to file a statement of concern. I live in an area that has had hundreds of statements of concern filed in the last few years, and now every statement feels like an abuse of the system.
The book is good. It's written for kids, but it's educational for adults too.
While I appreciate that it's a charged word with a lot of uncomfortable history that I am not qualified to talk about, I do not appreciate that this woman's solution was to file a statement of concern. I live in an area that has had hundreds of statements of concern filed in the last few years, and now every statement feels like an abuse of the system.
The book is good. It's written for kids, but it's educational for adults too.
August 23, 2010
In this beautifully illustrated oversized picture book, award-winning author/illustrator Matt Tavares concentrates not on his home run record, but on the childhood and early career of baseball legend Hank Aaron.
The book opens with a full-page illustration of a baseball field, seen through a fence with a large sign, prominently featured, reading WHITES ONLY. We then meet Henry Aaron as a young boy in Alabama who wants to be a big-league baseball player. So poor that he can't afford a bat or a ball, Henry's father reminds him that there "ain't no colored ballplayers." There were no baseball diamonds, either, in Mobile, Alabama, either, where black kids could play ball. When a baseball field for "Colored Only" finally opens, young Henry spends all his time there practicing, till he can hit the ball harder than anyone else. Henry's whole world changed in 1947, when Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers, and Tavares depicts a glowing young Henry watching his idol play an exhibition game in Mobile.
Henry started his career in the Negro Leagues, figuring that might be his best chance to be discovered. His teammates knew he wouldn't be in the Negro Leagues for long, and soon a scout for the Braves spots Henry, offering him a minor-league contract. Like Robinson, Aaron was called racial epithets by white fans, and sent threatening letters. He even had rocks thrown at him.
During spring training in 1954, Henry got his chance with the majors, traveling with the big-league club during spring training. When two outfielders were out injured, Henry was put in, and before spring training was over, he had signed his first major-league contract. Henry's impossible dream had come true!
Oversized illustrations done in watercolor, ink, and pencil spill onto two pages, and convey a monumental, sculptural quality, especially in the use of action close-ups, that suit very well the great accomplishments of Henry Aaron. The use of earth tones and glowing light also evoke the not-so-long ago era when black and white players began to play baseball together, but couldn't stay in the same hotels in Southern cities or even play checkers together.
An author's note provides additional biographical information about Aaron, including not only how he broke Babe Ruth's home run record in 1974, but how he spoke out about the racial injustice he faced in baseball. A chart of Aaron's baseball stats is also included, as well as a bibliography.
The book opens with a full-page illustration of a baseball field, seen through a fence with a large sign, prominently featured, reading WHITES ONLY. We then meet Henry Aaron as a young boy in Alabama who wants to be a big-league baseball player. So poor that he can't afford a bat or a ball, Henry's father reminds him that there "ain't no colored ballplayers." There were no baseball diamonds, either, in Mobile, Alabama, either, where black kids could play ball. When a baseball field for "Colored Only" finally opens, young Henry spends all his time there practicing, till he can hit the ball harder than anyone else. Henry's whole world changed in 1947, when Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers, and Tavares depicts a glowing young Henry watching his idol play an exhibition game in Mobile.
Henry started his career in the Negro Leagues, figuring that might be his best chance to be discovered. His teammates knew he wouldn't be in the Negro Leagues for long, and soon a scout for the Braves spots Henry, offering him a minor-league contract. Like Robinson, Aaron was called racial epithets by white fans, and sent threatening letters. He even had rocks thrown at him.
During spring training in 1954, Henry got his chance with the majors, traveling with the big-league club during spring training. When two outfielders were out injured, Henry was put in, and before spring training was over, he had signed his first major-league contract. Henry's impossible dream had come true!
Oversized illustrations done in watercolor, ink, and pencil spill onto two pages, and convey a monumental, sculptural quality, especially in the use of action close-ups, that suit very well the great accomplishments of Henry Aaron. The use of earth tones and glowing light also evoke the not-so-long ago era when black and white players began to play baseball together, but couldn't stay in the same hotels in Southern cities or even play checkers together.
An author's note provides additional biographical information about Aaron, including not only how he broke Babe Ruth's home run record in 1974, but how he spoke out about the racial injustice he faced in baseball. A chart of Aaron's baseball stats is also included, as well as a bibliography.
June 4, 2016
Color-drenched watercolor, ink, and pencil illustrations beautifully complement this engaging story of a single-minded boy who becomes a record-setter and groundbreaker in baseball. He retired from the sport with a record 755 home runs, surpassing even the great Babe Ruth. Readers will learn about how Henry (later called Hank) Aaron grew up in segregated Mobile, Alabama where he played the sport even with what he had on hand rather than the proper equipment. All that practice eventually paid off, and he spent time in the Negro Leagues and later in the minors before eventually being picked up by the Milwaukee (later, Atlanta) Braves. Although Hank's own records as a baseball player are quite impressive, the author takes care to highlight the inspiration Aaron drew from the feats of Jackie Robinson who broke the color barrier in baseball in 1947. Following Jackie's example of grace under pressure and his refusal to respond to the racist comments and taunts of some baseball fans, Aaron strived to do the same thing, and even insisted that offensive signs be removed from the ballpark where he played. Although the Author's Note acknowledges many of Aaron's accomplishments and the acclaim he received during his career, the focus of this story is how he kept his eye on his dream, which was to play major league baseball, and not on that home run record. Interested readers will want to search out other picture biographies focusing on Jackie Robinson, Roy Campanella, and others mentioned in this title to mull over the connections among them and to note the impact each man had on those who followed him. This picture book is a wonderful introduction to how civil rights had a start in sports, and it also serves as a moving tribute to one man's incredible focus and determination. Although the book doesn't delve deeply into his upbringing and early days, the author provides enough details to satisfy readers and to encourage those curious to learn more to search for other resources.
June 19, 2013
“Henry Aaron’s Dream” by Matt Tavares gives the history of baseball legend Hank Aaron’s rise from boyhood baseball fan learning about Jackie Robinson on the Brooklyn Dodgers, to baseball player in the Negro Leagues, to member of the minor leagues, and finally to baseball legend playing for the Atlanta Braves. This book touches on the segregation many black baseball players experienced and the racism hurled at the players by white fans. However, it also highlights Henry Aaron’s hope of one day achieving his dream and his tenacity at overcoming adversity in order to reach his goal. When times got tough and the racism wore on Aaron, his inspiration to keep going came from thinking about his fans and the other Negro League players who never got a shot at playing in the majors.
This book features large watercolor, ink, and pencil illustrations, also by Tavares, that illuminate the text of the story. The size and excellence of the illustrations make this a terrific book to use during story time.
The text is limited, appropriate for young elementary school readers (1st through 3rd grade) but some concepts in the book such as segregation, historical figures such as Jackie Robinson, and historical institutions such as the Negro Leagues may require further explanation for some readers. This is an excellent book for young, male, reluctant readers who have expressed interest in sports. They will love this look at famous baseball legend Hank Aaron and his journey to achieving his dream.
This book features large watercolor, ink, and pencil illustrations, also by Tavares, that illuminate the text of the story. The size and excellence of the illustrations make this a terrific book to use during story time.
The text is limited, appropriate for young elementary school readers (1st through 3rd grade) but some concepts in the book such as segregation, historical figures such as Jackie Robinson, and historical institutions such as the Negro Leagues may require further explanation for some readers. This is an excellent book for young, male, reluctant readers who have expressed interest in sports. They will love this look at famous baseball legend Hank Aaron and his journey to achieving his dream.
October 26, 2017
“Henry Aaron’s Dream” by Matt Tavares; published by Candlewick Press; Massachusetts ; copyright 2010.
Awards the book has received: This book has not received any awards.
Appropriate grade level(s): This book is appropriate for children from Preschool- 2nd grade and older.
Summary: This book is about a boy named Henry Arron who had a dream of playing for a major league baseball team. He was black so his father told him not to get his hopes up. He practiced on their towns only colored baseball field until he eventually was recognized. This story tells about Henry’s journey through each step until his dream finally becomes a reality and he is able to play baseball next to his idol, Jackie Robinson.
Review: This book is an inspirational story that shows the perseverance and determination of a black boy trying to become a major league base ball player This is a wonderful story to read to children because it shows that if you keep trying and never give up, you can achieve your dream. It shows it in a realistic and somewhat harsh manor but can defiantly be read to younger students.
Uses in the classroom:
· Students can explore a few difficult words and learn their meaning through the text. (example: perseverance)
· Students can play baseball and learn sight words as they play using the bases to spell out the word.
· Students can write about a dream they had and what they did to reach that dream.
Awards the book has received: This book has not received any awards.
Appropriate grade level(s): This book is appropriate for children from Preschool- 2nd grade and older.
Summary: This book is about a boy named Henry Arron who had a dream of playing for a major league baseball team. He was black so his father told him not to get his hopes up. He practiced on their towns only colored baseball field until he eventually was recognized. This story tells about Henry’s journey through each step until his dream finally becomes a reality and he is able to play baseball next to his idol, Jackie Robinson.
Review: This book is an inspirational story that shows the perseverance and determination of a black boy trying to become a major league base ball player This is a wonderful story to read to children because it shows that if you keep trying and never give up, you can achieve your dream. It shows it in a realistic and somewhat harsh manor but can defiantly be read to younger students.
Uses in the classroom:
· Students can explore a few difficult words and learn their meaning through the text. (example: perseverance)
· Students can play baseball and learn sight words as they play using the bases to spell out the word.
· Students can write about a dream they had and what they did to reach that dream.
June 4, 2012
Any Atlanta Braves fan worth his or her salt knows the name Hank Aaron, but fans may not realize everything Henry Aaron went through to become one of the best players in the history of baseball.
In Henry Aaron's Dream, a nominee for the 2012-13 South Carolina Children's Book Award, author and illustrator Matt Tavares tell the story of how the dream of one young boy came true, despite enormous pressure from those who couldn't see past the color of his skin. This book takes readers from Aaron's boyhood, playing baseball with anything he could find, through his time with minor and Negro league teams, to his triumphant entry into the world of Major League baseball. The journey was not easy, but Henry Aaron, with help and inspiration from his hero Jackie Robinson and other leaders who'd gone before him, emerged as one of the best and most beloved baseball players ever. (As a die-hard Braves fan, I know he's one of my favorites.)
For a great Black History Month lesson revolving around baseball, pair this book with Testing the Ice: A True Story About Jackie Robinson by Sharon Robinson and Kadir Nelson.
*This wonderful book, despite being a picture book, is intended for readers in third grade and up. It does use a racially insensitive word, but only to depict the kinds of hatred that Hank Aaron and other black baseball players faced on a regular basis.
In Henry Aaron's Dream, a nominee for the 2012-13 South Carolina Children's Book Award, author and illustrator Matt Tavares tell the story of how the dream of one young boy came true, despite enormous pressure from those who couldn't see past the color of his skin. This book takes readers from Aaron's boyhood, playing baseball with anything he could find, through his time with minor and Negro league teams, to his triumphant entry into the world of Major League baseball. The journey was not easy, but Henry Aaron, with help and inspiration from his hero Jackie Robinson and other leaders who'd gone before him, emerged as one of the best and most beloved baseball players ever. (As a die-hard Braves fan, I know he's one of my favorites.)
For a great Black History Month lesson revolving around baseball, pair this book with Testing the Ice: A True Story About Jackie Robinson by Sharon Robinson and Kadir Nelson.
*This wonderful book, despite being a picture book, is intended for readers in third grade and up. It does use a racially insensitive word, but only to depict the kinds of hatred that Hank Aaron and other black baseball players faced on a regular basis.
April 12, 2015
Full review at: http://www.unleashingreaders.com/?p=5953
My Review: Matt Tavares's four superbly crafted biographies take a look at the life of each man, but as more than a baseball player. We learn about their childhoods, where they came from, and their dreams and hopes. Each book includes aspects of the history surrounding them including the Depression, wars, and racism. Additionally, these books are crafted beautiful with lyrically written prose. These books are must reads for lovers of baseball, history, and biographies in general.
Teachers’ Tools for Navigation: I was lucky enough to be asked to write a teachers’ guide for each of these books. For each book, I created discussion questions and activities (including cross-curricular activities). I plan on using this guide in my own classroom with the books in a lit circle type of setting. Each group will be given one of the biographies, will complete the discussion questions and activities, and then become experts on their player before presenting. These biographies are asking to be in classrooms, and I hope the guide helps show how they can fit into a language arts/reading class.
Please check out the complete guide at http://www.candlewick.com/book_files/...
My Review: Matt Tavares's four superbly crafted biographies take a look at the life of each man, but as more than a baseball player. We learn about their childhoods, where they came from, and their dreams and hopes. Each book includes aspects of the history surrounding them including the Depression, wars, and racism. Additionally, these books are crafted beautiful with lyrically written prose. These books are must reads for lovers of baseball, history, and biographies in general.
Teachers’ Tools for Navigation: I was lucky enough to be asked to write a teachers’ guide for each of these books. For each book, I created discussion questions and activities (including cross-curricular activities). I plan on using this guide in my own classroom with the books in a lit circle type of setting. Each group will be given one of the biographies, will complete the discussion questions and activities, and then become experts on their player before presenting. These biographies are asking to be in classrooms, and I hope the guide helps show how they can fit into a language arts/reading class.
Please check out the complete guide at http://www.candlewick.com/book_files/...
July 20, 2017
On the fourth page of writing, there is a quote that would not be appropriate at my elementary school - "Everywhere Jackie played white fans called him "N" and a second "N" comes a few pages later with a similar quote. The information was ok throughout the book but seemed a bit wordy at times. The illustrations were good. I would not purchase this one due to the language. Even though I know it was used in that time era, I think I would receive negative a very response from my local patrons and their parents. I showed it to several teachers and they all gasped when they read it - saying that is too bad - and why on earth would they put that in a children's picture book? I think the editor did not think about this one too much. It is one thing to express the culture and racial tensions of the time, but some things, especially language, are still extremely problematic today and I would not go there. Skip this one or put pressure on the editor to update without the "N" word. Reading level was around 3rd-4th.
June 12, 2014
1) Text to Self Connection: Henry Aaron’s Dream describes a boy’s determination to play baseball when faced with prejudice. I have faced prejudice because I am female. This does make me very aware of differences in the classroom and remaining open-minded to students’ needs and goals.
2) Remembering: Name two things that Henry struggled with in order to achieve his goal?
Understanding: Explain what is meant by “And through it all, Jackie persevered”?
Applying: What evidence can you find that supports Henry’s hard work paid off?
Analyzing: What is the theme of Henry Aaron’s Dream?
Evaluating: Would you recommend this book to a person that doesn’t enjoy baseball? Why or why not?
Creating: How would you rewrite the story from Henry’s point of view? How would that change the tone of the book?
3) Adapted Citation: (2010, January 1) School Library Journal
http://www.booksinprint.com.leo.lib.u...#
2) Remembering: Name two things that Henry struggled with in order to achieve his goal?
Understanding: Explain what is meant by “And through it all, Jackie persevered”?
Applying: What evidence can you find that supports Henry’s hard work paid off?
Analyzing: What is the theme of Henry Aaron’s Dream?
Evaluating: Would you recommend this book to a person that doesn’t enjoy baseball? Why or why not?
Creating: How would you rewrite the story from Henry’s point of view? How would that change the tone of the book?
3) Adapted Citation: (2010, January 1) School Library Journal
http://www.booksinprint.com.leo.lib.u...#
November 19, 2017
Life Stories
Awards: N/A
Appropriate Grade Levels: 4-6
Summary: Henry Aaron's Dream takes readers through the upbringing of famous MLB legend Hank Aaron. Before he made it to the big leagues, Aaron was a child with no baseball equipment yet, he was determined to make it. This story highlights Aaron's struggle from childhood to the Negro leagues and eventually, the big leagues.
Review: Henry Aaron's Dream is definitely a powerful story that showcases triumph in the face of adversity and small odds. This book would make an excellent addition to the classroom for sports fans and those who appreciate a good story.
In-Class Uses:
-Could be used as a part of a research project on Hank Aaron
-Can serve as a highlight of history and give children an opportunity to study some racial attitudes of the past (best for older primary grades)
Awards: N/A
Appropriate Grade Levels: 4-6
Summary: Henry Aaron's Dream takes readers through the upbringing of famous MLB legend Hank Aaron. Before he made it to the big leagues, Aaron was a child with no baseball equipment yet, he was determined to make it. This story highlights Aaron's struggle from childhood to the Negro leagues and eventually, the big leagues.
Review: Henry Aaron's Dream is definitely a powerful story that showcases triumph in the face of adversity and small odds. This book would make an excellent addition to the classroom for sports fans and those who appreciate a good story.
In-Class Uses:
-Could be used as a part of a research project on Hank Aaron
-Can serve as a highlight of history and give children an opportunity to study some racial attitudes of the past (best for older primary grades)
May 26, 2011
This is the second picture book biography of Henry "Hank" Aaron taht I've read in as many days, and I have to say that the variation between the two is very interesting. I'm no Hank Aaron fanatic, but I do find his accomplishemnts and the incredible degree of character that he demonstrated throughout his lifetime worthy of a bit of marveling. He was truly an exceptional human being and he was far from the only one. It's true that Jackie Robinson endured a lot as he led the way with his entrance into the Major Leagues, but that doesn't mean that the trail was any smoother for the others that followed after him. Yet so many people discount perseverance of Hank Aaron. Unfortunate. Good book though.
December 7, 2014
This is a great book that tells a biography of the baseball hero Henry Aaron. It follows Henry's dream of becoming a professional baseball player and playing against his hero Jackie Robinson. The author, Matt Tavares explains Hank Aaron's career before he played in the majors. He uses great accounts of what Henry's life was like before he was a star and he does a great job of telling the life of the baseball hero in a narrative style.
This Biography of Hank Aaron is also told through amazing illustrations with great detail and amazing color. I thoroughly enjoyed this retelling of the life of an amazing person and an amazing athlete. I would recommend this book for any child who wants to learn about the life of Hank Aaron and also any adult too.
This Biography of Hank Aaron is also told through amazing illustrations with great detail and amazing color. I thoroughly enjoyed this retelling of the life of an amazing person and an amazing athlete. I would recommend this book for any child who wants to learn about the life of Hank Aaron and also any adult too.
November 3, 2013
Great background story of Hank Aaron. I really enjoyed learning more about his history before his major baseball career. Even better than the story, were the incredible illustrations.
My only concern (and I'm sure I will catch flack for this) is I wish it hadn't used the "N" word. Because of the age of the children I would read this book to, I would have found it more appropriate to use the phrase "N word" or just say mean names, etc. I understand the need to use that word for historical purposes, effect, etc., but using it in a book for that age... I wouldn't feel comfortable reading it aloud.
Other than that, I loved the story and illustrations. Great read.
My only concern (and I'm sure I will catch flack for this) is I wish it hadn't used the "N" word. Because of the age of the children I would read this book to, I would have found it more appropriate to use the phrase "N word" or just say mean names, etc. I understand the need to use that word for historical purposes, effect, etc., but using it in a book for that age... I wouldn't feel comfortable reading it aloud.
Other than that, I loved the story and illustrations. Great read.
October 16, 2017
This story is about a young African American boy who had a dream to play major league baseball. Henry Aaron- Dav grew up wanted to play major leagues but did not have a ball or a bat. The book tells us about his childhood and how he played at the sandlot and then the negro leagues. He eventually got to play in a spring training game for the Atlanta Braves. Henry Aaron became one of baseball’s great and is also known as Hammerin Hank. I personally love baseball so I loved this book. It is a great book to show children that you can become anything you want to be with hard work and determination.
April 20, 2013
A biographical story of the man’s childhood who would change sports and American forever with his drive and spirit. The book recreates the poor and segregation childhood of Hank Aaron, and his dream to become the first Black player in Major League Baseball. This inspirational tale begins in the sandlot baseball diamonds of Montgomery, Alabama with a boy who didn’t even own a mitt or bat, but possessed a dream that would not be stop by anyone. The inspiring story will teach children to stand up for what they believe in and reach for their dreams not matter what society thinks.
April 21, 2019
Henry Aaron's Dream is an inspiring tale of a boy who lives in the South, growing up during the time of segregation. Henry is a young, black boy who wishes to play baseball and to make it to the big leagues. Matt Tavares, the author, does a wonderful job of showing how through perseverance and dedication, Henry is able to achieve his dream. He even gets to play against Jackie Robinson, his childhood role model. This is an amazing book, paired with vibrant illustrations, a must-read for young minds.
March 30, 2010
THANK YOU, Matt Tavares, for recording in such a meaningful way the sheer guts of Hank Aaron! I well recall the night he broke Babe Ruth's record, and I am so grateful to him for being brave, persistent, and tolerant. I am a dedicated baseball fan, so I would love him no matter what; but knowing the struggles he had to overcome make him a true hero to me, and in our home. Fantastic book, ffor the baseball fan child, and for every child.
June 25, 2012
This is a great book about dreams, hardwork and it includes Historical events, such as Civil Rights, Equality, Racism and Segregation. This is a great book to use for inferencing in the classroom, right off the bat ( no pun intended) the first page shows a baseball field that reads Whites Only. I would have my students keep track of how they feel and put themselves into Henry Aarons shoes, has a guided (inferences) reading lesson.
June 11, 2012
Wow... What a wonderful story of determination and perseverance! Plus, this nonfiction book allows for lots of great learning opportunities (civil rights history, statistical studies, the research process and character education). I'm so glad this book is included on this year's SC Children's Book Award Nominee list.
September 21, 2014
I enjoyed reading this book. This book exemplifies perseverance, dedication and commitment while enduring hardship. I would be more than willing to read this book to my elementary class especially during Black History month. I think that book is a good instrument to use as a teaching to help students follow their dreams through all obstacles.
July 23, 2010
Henry Aaron's Dream is the story of Hank Aaron from his boyhood dream of becoming a major league baseball player and being told by everyone around him that he couldn't do it, to achieving his dream and even playing on the same field as Jackie Robinson, his hero.
March 7, 2011
I quite liked this book about the start of Hank Aaron's career. I think the illustrations are wonderful and I think it explains how much vitrol black baseball players were subjected to at a level children will understand.
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