Picture a storyteller who unearthed forgotten tales of baseball and wartime heroism—meet Tom Dunkel! This Washington, D.C.-based journalist has spent decades spinning captivating narratives for outlets like The Washington Post and Sports Illustrated. With a knack for blending meticulous research and vibrant storytelling, Dunkel’s books, like Color Blind and White Knights in the Black Orchestra, breathe life into history’s overlooked corners, making him a standout in narrative nonfiction.
The Making of Tom Dunkel
Born and raised in New Jersey, Tom Dunkel grew up in a world far from the glitz of magazine bylines. His father, a modest bank executive, instilled a grounded perspective. Dunkel didn’t chase headlines in high school or college newspapers at Muhlenberg College, where he played football instead. After a stint in documentary filmmaking, social work, and public relations, he found his calling through a master’s degree in journalism at New York University. His career kicked off at New Jersey Monthly, launching a journey that toggled between staff roles and freelancing for over 30 years.
Tom Dunkel’s Unforgettable Stories
Dunkel’s writing sparkles with curiosity and depth, whether he’s profiling a quadriplegic marathon runner or trekking Mount Kilimanjaro with a legendary mountaineer. His first book, Color Blind: The Forgotten Team That Broke Baseball’s Color Line (2013), dives into a 1930s North Dakota baseball team that defied segregation, led by legends like Satchel Paige. Critics, including The Boston Globe, called it “fantastic” for its vivid portrayal of a pre-Jackie Robinson era. His second book, White Knights in the Black Orchestra (2022), chronicles German resisters who risked everything to thwart the Nazis. Funded by a National Endowment for the Humanities grant, it’s a suspenseful tale of courage, praised by The New York Post as a top read. Dunkel’s style—rich with detail, empathy, and a touch of adventure—turns history into page-turners.
His journalism is equally dynamic, covering politics, sports, and quirky human stories. From biking across the Middle East for The Baltimore Sun to exploring Alzheimer’s research, Dunkel’s versatility shines. His ability to weave personal journeys with broader societal themes makes his work resonate, whether in a magazine feature or a book.
Why Tom Dunkel Matters
Tom Dunkel’s impact lies in his ability to resurrect forgotten voices—be it a mixed-race baseball team or Nazi resisters—and make their stories matter today. His books don’t just inform; they inspire readers to reflect on courage, unity, and resilience. By spotlighting unsung heroes, Dunkel challenges us to rethink history’s narrative, earning accolades like a CASEY Award finalist nod for Color Blind. His work bridges past and present, inviting readers to see the world through a lens of empathy and adventure.
- Key Works: Color Blind (2013), White Knights in the Black Orchestra (2022)
- Notable Awards: 2013 CASEY Award Finalist, National Endowment for the Humanities Grant (2018)
- Hometown: Washington, D.C.
Snag Color Blind or White Knights in the Black Orchestra and dive into Tom Dunkel’s thrilling world of narrative nonfiction! You’ll be hooked on his storytelling magic.