Super-sized Slugger

Starred review from May 28, 2012
When Cody Parker arrives at a new school, he needs to prove that his burly body is good for more than just mocking. To that end, he joins the baseball team—but his plan may be working to well. His spectacular performances start to show up the team’s bully. Mixing issues of self-image, bullying, and sports, Ripken and Cowherd provide an enjoyable and exciting story that narrator Stephen Hoye masterfully executes, deftly handling both the young protagonist’s internal life and exciting play on the baseball field. Hoye’s deep, powerful voice may seem like an odd choice for a young adult novel, but he perfectly captures the emotions and angst of young Cody. But where Hoye really excels is his narration of Cody’s baseball games. The authors craft baseball scenes with great dramatic flair, and Hoye executes the play-by-play with the skill of any professional announcer. Ages 9–up. A Hyperion hardcover.

August 1, 2012

Gr 4-7-Middle-schooler Cody, new in Baltimore, loves all sports, particularly baseball, and he's good at them despite the fact that he's a bit overweight (he prefers the term "burly"). He uses humor to make people like him, which works for the most part but not with bully Dante, who loses his third-base starting position to Cody. There's a mystery to solve and plenty of exciting baseball action as the team plays for an undefeated season and the championship. The various elements work well together to create a fast-moving story, and the characterizations of the parents and coach are great. These adults are supportive and helpful, giving good advice and practical lessons. The coach really has no ego. His philosophy: "Please don't let me screw this up." Another well-developed character is Jessica, Cody's athletic neighbor, who becomes his good friend and defender. She is smart and can hold her own against the boys in a baseball story. Ripkin and Cowherd have created a definite winner for anyone with the slightest interest in baseball, sports in general, those adjusting to a new city or school, being overweight in middle school, or just wanting to be entertained by a good story.-Kate Kohlbeck, Randall School, Waukesha, WI

Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.