An inspiring picture book biography about Los Angeles Dodger Glenn Burke, the first professional baseball player to come out as gay, and the story of how he created the high five.
As a rookie baseball player on the Los Angeles Dodgers, Glenn Burke could do it all—hit, throw, catch, score. As a teammate, he was the heart of the clubhouse; he made fellow players laugh and energized them with his enthusiasm. In fact, his habit of congratulating his teammates led Burke to invent the high five—a spontaneous overhand slap that has evolved into an international gesture of connection, unity, and support.
But despite creating such a joyful symbol, Burke wasn’t always given support in return. As a Black gay man, he faced prejudice and obstacles almost everywhere he went, putting his career at stake and making his everyday life difficult. Glenn Burke, Game Changer recognizes this hardship while celebrating how Glenn’s bravery and his now-famous handshake paved the way for others to live openly, truly, and freely.
Author's note. Selected bibliography. Time line. Full-color illustrations.
Book Genres Autobiography/Biography, Picture Book, Sports
Canadian Rights Yes
Dewey B
Title alpha Glenn Burke, Game Changer: The Story of the Man Who Invented the High Five
Level Sports Elementary Plus
Pages Count 40
Genre Nonfiction
Topics Glenn Burke (1952-1995). US baseball players. Major League Baseball (MLB). Sports and recreation. Sportsmanship. Handshaking. High fives. African American athletes. Gay athletes. LGBTQ.
Trim Size 9" x 11"
JLG Span Spring
Language English
Rights type Print
Publication date 2024-02-19
JLG Release Date Jun 2024
Minimum grade 2
Maximum grade 6
Reading level Elementary
Format Print
Sports Elementary Plus (Grades 2-6)
Sports Elementary Plus
Sports Elementary Plus (Grades 2-6)
For Grades 2-6
Welcome to an exciting world of sports-themed fiction and nonfiction sure to win over your elementary sports fans. Have a few reluctant readers? These action-packed titles are a great way to get them in the game. And with 14 books per year, sports fans will be entertained all year long.