Coach Jimmy Morris was a popular high school sports coach. Unfortunately, in a place where football was revered, baseball was mocked. So when his high school baseball team wasn’t taking things too seriously, he made a deal: If the team could win the local championship, he would try out for major league baseball...again. He didn’t think much about it after that; after all, he was just trying to motivate the team. But something he said struck a chord with his kids. As he pitched for them, they started winning games. The team kept their part of the bargain, and now it was his turn.

When Jimmy showed up at tryouts with his kids in tow, everyone was doubtful as to what he had to offer. He was a middle-aged father of three, who had had multiple surgeries and injuries. Nevertheless, he was given the chance to pitch last, and people took notice. The rest is baseball history. If you’ve ever dreamed of something that seems unreachable, pick up this book for a shot of inspiration.

The Bottom Line: This motivational read is a sports story, an underdog story, and a love story all rolled into one. Morris is honest about sharing his hopes and dreams as well as doubts and failures. Even though the focus is on Jimmy, Lorri’s story shines through too. Recommended for sports fans and Big League hopefuls.

This review also appears at the Mini Book Bytes Book Review Blog. ( )

An interesting autobiography of Jim Morris' agonizing, at times, journey to the major leagues. ( )

I saw the movie before I read this book, which is generally something tough for me to do (I'm not the best at staying tuned when I already know what's going to happen). However, this book definitely keeps the reader interested in the story by delving deeper into the story than the movie portrays. The reader learns far more about the character's life and journey, all of which is well written. Would be a great book for a young adult reader that is interested in sports or for any reader interested in the trials and tribulations that surround the challenge of breaking into the professional world of baseball. I learned a lot and now have a much deeper understanding of the sport. ( )