MAKE-BELIEVE BALLPLAYER

by Alfred Slote ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 15, 1989

Nine-year-old Henry discovers a hidden talent that not only compensates for his ineptitude at baseball but makes him a local celebrity. Henry is always the hero, as long as he stays off the field and sticks with his elaborate fantasy games. He does have to play these alone--but by changing his voice, he finds that he can mimic a whole teamful of players and coaches with startling realism. Left alone in the house one day, he scares off some burglars by imitating a pair of adults. When the story hits the papers, it snowballs--until Henry is pressured into playing second base in a real school-game for the TV news. Once again, Henry uses his special ability, tricking a runner by yelling ""Out!"" in the umpire's voice. Subsequently, Henry successfully tries out for a part in a play and also shows renewed interest in real baseball--but he cheerfully continues his pretend games, too. A tightly constructed validation of make-believe, enhanced by engaging characters and by Slote's unsual snappy dialogue. Illustrations not seen.

Pub Date: Sept. 15, 1989

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 112

Publisher: Lippincott

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1989

Categories: CHILDREN'S