The Art of Fielding

So, it’s winter. It’s cold. It’s dark. And it’s football season. Now, you should know that I have nothing against football except for the fact that its season ushers in the cold temperatures and snow (fine in moderation, but we seem to be getting it in excess).  To combat these wintery feelings, I recently read a book that centers on the baseball season, and let me tell you that I could smell the freshly cut grass and hear the crack of the bat – two great signs of summer.

The Art of Fielding

Baseball itself plays a large role in this novel. The analytical, thoughtful nature of America’s pastime is fully represented and provides an interesting framing device, especially in the character development of Henry. (The Art of Fielding is also the title of Henry’s life manual, a book written by his baseball idol.) Though baseball is intricate in the narrative of The Art of Fielding I certainly wouldn’t say this is a “sports book.” It’s a bildungsroman in multiple respects that hones in on family, friendships, personal sacrifice, commitment and change. It’s both literally and figuratively about what happens when you fail to keep your eye on the ball.

Basically, you should read it in the winter to make you feel like it’s the summer. Or read it in the summer, you know, whatever works.