As Fleet Walker rose to the challenge that baseball provided him, the ignorance of White America gave way to renewed insight. At the time of his birth, Negroes were thought of as an inferior race, but the slave population made up a large part of the United Stated census . With their resounding drive and determination to forge ahead into new territory and live with their newfound freedom, White America had to eventually make good on the promises it made when it set them free.

Rising from this heritage, Fleet Walker was determined to make a life for himself. Against all odds, Walker became the first Black American to play in Major League Baseball. Although he went to Oberlin College, maintained high marks, pursued a medical profession he never finished, his life was full of disappointments. He was drawn to baseball both because of his skill, but also because of his passion. Even when white baseball fans would not welcome him at the plate, he at least received acclaim for his ability. Because of his talent as a catcher, he could not be ignored. In order for his team to win games, Fleet Walker had to play, and so the arrival of the first Black Major Leaguer was finally and formidably noted.

This audio book, as told by Andrew L. Barnes, will inspire baseball fans of all ages. And, Walker’s historic story as it relates the rise of freed slaves in America, will interest all who listen.