Stealing Home

by Ellen Schwartz

Book Overview

It is 1947 and Yankee fever grips the Bronx. Nine-year-old Joey Sexton joins the neighborhood kids who flock to the park to team up and play. However, Joey is of mixed race and his skin is lighter... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0887767656
• ISBN13: 9780887767654
• Release Date: May 2006
• Publisher: Tundra Books (NY)
• Length: 224 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.2" x 7.6"
• Age Range: 9 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 4 to 7

Customer Reviews

A 2007 Association of Jewish Libraries Notable Book for Older Readers

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.