I Never Had It Made

By: Jackie Robinson

Narrated by: Ossie Davis

Length: 2 hrs and 59 mins

Publisher's Summary

A straightforward yet inspiring story of what it took to be the first man of color to break into the white world of professional sports. Jackie Robinson's story is more than a telling of his tremendous talent; it is also a recollection that showcases his tenacious spirit, bravery, and the courage of his ideals.

From the early influences of family and friends, to his time at UCLA, to the Army, where he challenged racism and Jim Crow laws, Jackie Robinson traces his life to playing in the black leagues, frustrated by the abuses and restrictions of second-class status in professional baseball.

As Branch Rickey, president of the Brooklyn Dodgers, began to look around for a player to break the color barrier in 1946, he knew he needed a man of character who could withstand the pressures of his "Noble Experiment". Choosing Robinson gave both of them the chance to prove what they believed in.

Struggles that continued in his personal life and in response to the turbulent sixties are interpreted with insight by Robinson and will give listeners an added appreciation for the amazing strength of his character.

Public Domain (P)2008 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Critic Reviews

"A disturbing and enlightening self-portrait by one of America's genuine heroes." ( Publishers Weekly)

Understanding Jackie Robinson's Best Performance

If you could sum up I Never Had It Made in three words, what would they be?

Honesty; Strength; Faitful to change!!

Who was your favorite character and why?

Mr. Rickey is true to his belief in -- "that all men are endowed with certain inalienable rights, and that "among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness".

What does Ossie Davis bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Ossie David's rich vocal expressions bring the reading to life.

3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Some parts are missing

As I was reading along i noticed that there are a few chapters and paragraphs missing. The basic story is still intact and the key point have been hit although it isnt complete.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

What helped me get through my life

This book helped me get further in my life Jackie Robinson is an inspiration on me. This book shows me that we think we have it hard when really think about how it was back then think about the pain that the people of color went through I myself am Latina. this book also showed me that you ignore the hate ignore the haters because if you let them get to you they win and I don't like to lose so I changed perspective thanks to this book.

passionate and informative

what a thrilling Journey thru Jacquees life on and off the baseball field! such descriptive language and use of imagery transform the reader 2 front row seat viewing the Brooklyn Dodgers as they navigated this first time Journey through desegregation.

A bit Rose colored, but applicable as much today

This book was written in 1972 but the points made could just as easily been written today. He under represented some of his faults, but gave a pretty clear view of life for a black man in that time.

Outstanding Character

Jackie Robinson outlines the abuse he and his family quietly endured breaking the color line in baseball. Their struggles to gain housing and acceptance in Connecticut was not surprising. His role as husband, father, corporate executive, and in Republic politics held a number of surprises. I highly recommend this important autobiography of this exceptional American.

Great book

Very important to a person who has even heard of baseball. The best book I’ve read

excellent book

I truly enjoyed reading this book. I encourage everyone to read it at least once.

Honest Primary Source

Compltely engrossed. I felt like I was listening to Mr. Robinson in his living room .

loved it

Ossie Davis is Ossie Davis so you know the performance was superb and Jackie Robinson Story is 1 for the ages