The Girl Who Changed Little League
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Maria Pepe loved baseball. When Little League formed in her hometown in 1972, she was eager to prove herself as a competitor. There was only one problem: Little League was not open...
Maria Pepe loved baseball. When Little League formed in her hometown in 1972, she was eager to prove herself as a competitor. There was only one problem: Little League was not open to girl players. This didn’t stop Maria. She took her glove and joined her friends, Nicky and Louie, at tryouts. She could hit, pitch, and catch as good as any of the boys—better than many, even, and it was no surprise that Maria made the team. Little did she know, she would make history when the Little League officials refused to let her play because she was a girl.
Highlighting resilience and bravery in the face of opposition, this powerful story details the true events that led to girls being able to play Little League—all told from Maria’s first-person perspective as a young athlete.
Published By Christy Ottaviano Books
Format Hardback
Number Of Pages 48
Publication Date 03/03/2026
ISBN 9780316464239
Dimensions 9.85 inches x 12.05 inches
Praise for The Girl Who Changed Little League
"A valuable work of nonfiction, this book will encourage girls and boys alike to treat all genders with equal dignity and respect.”—School Library Journal
"The text doesn’t gloss over the challenges Maria endured (lost friendships, angry adults, and hurtful remarks), making her resilience even more inspiring. Her story is a powerful reminder that young people can take meaningful action and spark change. With lively illustrations that capture Maria’s charismatic spirit and back matter that adds valuable context, this book is an uplifting addition to any children’s collection, especially where books about girls in sports are popular."—Booklist
“The bravery and determination of baseball player Maria Pepe propels this motivational picture book ... Third-person narration immediately captures the heroine’s passion for the sport ... With empathy and rigor, the creators neatly drive home the importance of the seminal case and its successful verdict for athletes today.”—Publishers Weekly
"Maria’s inspiring story—told in her own words—shines through…. The empowering story of a girl who changed the game and opened the field for all.”—Kirkus Reviews