Maggie Robinson; Subject of ‘Maggie’s American Dream’

Maggie Comer Robinson, 88, the inspiration for the book and television documentary about one black family’s impressive move up the economic ladder, “Maggie’s American Dream.” Mrs. Robinson, who was illiterate, insisted that her five children do well in school and pursue higher education. One son, Dr. James Comer, director of Yale University’s Child Study Center, chronicled her struggles to raise a family in East Chicago, Ind., during the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s. His book, “Maggie’s American Dream: The Life and Times of a Black Family,” was made into a PBS documentary. On Monday in East Chicago of a blood infection.