Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this story from New York Yankee Alex Rodriguez celebrates the values of commitment and hard work without being preachy.
Families can talk about how Alex's enthusiasm for baseball made it easier for him to work so hard. How might have things gone differently if Alex felt resentful of his baseball practice? What are some examples of his positive attitude? Parents can discuss times when they've seen their kids display the same kind of go-to-it excitement about a project and help their kids identify how their past efforts have led to success.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Dawn Friedman
Even if you have no idea that Alex Rodriguez was twice voted the most valuable player for the New York Yankees, that he hit 400 homeruns before he turned 30 or that he was drafted by the Seattle Mariners straight out of high school, you'll still appreciate his fictionalized account of his little league self.
Young Alex lives for baseball and when he makes too many mistakes during his team's last game before the championship, he's determined to do better. Instead of wallowing in regret, he sets his alarm and heads out to the baseball diamond every morning before 5:30 a.m. With the encouragement of his friends and family, he works hard to get his game back on track.
Parents might note that Alex does more than practice -- he sees himself winning the game. When his regrets about the last game feel overwhelming, he focuses and works harder.
While there's lots of opportunity to turn moralistic, Alex's story remains accessible and encouraging because of the kid-to-kid tone of the narrator. The "real life" aspect of the story is played up with the addition of captioned pictures from Rodriguez's photo album showing him at the age of the kid in the story.
Morrison's fine illustrations capture the energy and excitement of the games and of Alex's home life, with lots of angles and action and a wiry look to the pre-adolescent hero.
While few kids will ever become major league players, most of them will identify with Alex's drive and commitment. And they may just be inspired by his example to work a little harder at their own passions.
From The Book
Alex and J.D. hit each other fly balls. And line drives. And grounders. With every ball Alex fielded, he pictured himself playing a perfect championship game. His body tingled with excitement.
Plot Summary:
Alex is determined to do all he can to help his baseball team win the championship. Will his hard work pay off?
Related Books:
More Baseball Books:
Play ball! by Jorge Pasada
Jackie's Bat by Marybeth Lorbiecki
My Baseball Book by Gail Gibbons
Hank Aaron: Brave in Every Way by Peter Golenbock
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