School Library Journal Review
Gr 4-8-Stewart and Kennedy offer an overview of the history and significance of the long ball in this attractively designed book that includes a number of large, full-color photographs. One chapter presents a selective list of 10 great home runs, including Babe Ruth's "called shot" in the 1932 World Series, milestones by Roger Maris and Hank Aaron, and notable World Series hits. The authors detail the circumstances behind each run, the batter and opposing pitcher, and a short summation of its significance. Subsequent chapters cover some of the great long-ball hitters, from Gavy Cravath to Josh Gibson and Mickey Mantle on up to Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, and Barry Bonds. Another fascinating chapter covers the longest, shortest, and strangest home runs. The book ends with a discussion of the steroids controversy and its implications for the sport. The authors do a fine job of introducing trivia in a succinct and lively fashion. There's an error in the photo caption on one page: Wes Ferrell, not his brother Rick, holds the career record for home runs by a pitcher. Overall, though, this is an entertaining and informative look at an aspect of the game that will engage fans and browsers alike.-Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
Gr. 3-5. Baseball fans know that it's home runs that get them standing on their feet, and this slim book does a great job exploring the phenomenon in all its glory. The authors begin with an interesting, little known prequel to the story of home runs: they were rare and discouraged during the early days of the game. Everything changed with Babe Ruth, who, according to Ty Cobb, ruined baseball when he eschewed strategy and went for the long ball. The authors not only profile the famous sluggers--Gehrig, Williams, Jackson, Sosa, and McQwire, to name a few--but they also pick the 10 most famous long balls in history, focusing on the hitter and pitcher as well as the homer itself. A final chapter discusses steroid use and how it has affected players, play, and stats. The highly readable text is extended by excellent graphics, photographs, and reproductions of baseball cards and magazine covers. Sports fans even beyond the target audience will like this, as will many reluctant readers. --Ilene Cooper Copyright 2006 Booklist
