Born into an African American sharecropping family in 1880s Kentucky, Jimmy Winkfield grew up loving horses. The large, powerful animals inspired little Jimmy to think big. Looking beyond his family s farm, he longed for a life riding on action-packed racetracks around the world. Like his hero, the great Isaac Murphy, Jimmy Wink Winkfield would stop at nothing to make it as a jockey. Though his path to success was wrought with obstacles both on the track and off, Wink faced each challenge with passion and a steadfast spirit. Along the way he carved out a lasting legacy as one of history s finest horsemen and the last African American ever to win the Kentucky Derby. The Last Black King of the Kentucky Derby brings to life a vivacious hero from a little-known chapter of American sports history. Readers are transported trackside to witness the heart-pounding story of a vibrant young man chasing down his dream.

Product details

Age Range: 6 - 11 years
Grade Level: 3 - 4
Lexile Measure: AD970L (What's this?)
Paperback: 40 pages
Publisher: Lee & Low Books (April 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1600608914
ISBN-13: 978-1600608919
Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 0.2 x 8 inches

THE LAST BLACK KING OF THE KENTUCKY DERBY