Product Description

In the stirring second installment of the Door of No Return trilogy, young Charley Cuffey is determined to break new ground. At just 12 years old, she dreams of becoming the first female pitcher to play professional baseball—a goal that seems almost impossible in her segregated town. Inspired by her Nana Kofi’s riveting tales of courageous ancestors and epic journeys, Charley’s aspirations shine as a beacon of hope amid a turbulent era.

But as the community’s simmering tensions come to a head, Charley is forced to face realities she never imagined. When an unexpected challenge at a neighborhood picnic forces her to make a fateful decision, she finds that understanding her history is as vital to her survival as her dreams. Her journey is one of resilience and discovery, where the truth is both a burden and a source of empowerment.

Set against the backdrop of the segregated South and the early stirrings of The Great Migration, this powerful narrative by Kwame Alexander weaves together themes of struggle, determination, and unyielding faith. It is a story that reminds us that while a child may not be able to shield herself from the harshness of the world, knowing the truth can light the way to a better future.

About the Author

Kwame Alexander is an acclaimed poet, educator, and New York Times bestselling author whose works have touched the hearts of readers across the globe. With more than 35 published titles—including award-winning works that celebrate resilience and hope—he continues to redefine the boundaries of children’s literature. Alexander’s powerful storytelling and dedication to exploring themes of courage and legacy have earned him numerous honors, inspiring readers to dream big and stand strong in the face of adversity.