Curve Ball
by John Danakas
Tom finds himself on a plane to Winnipeg, where he'll spend the summer with an uncle he doesn't even know and on a baseball team where's he's out of his depth
On his old team, Tom Poulos was a star catcher. But his new team is different. For one thing, all the players are older and bigger than him. For another, no matter how hard he tries or how hard he practices, he can't catch the curve balls that the pitcher sends flying over the plate. Tom feels like he's letting the team down, a feeling that gets worse once a new catcher joins the team and Tom is benched. Can Tom find a way to regain his rightful place behind the plate?
About the Author
Reviews
"Plenty of local color... Danakas..shows his familiarity with the sport in plenty of action scenes in the ball park....fast paced reading.
Aimed especially at boys of an age that would often rather play sports than read about them, it fills a niche that is not over-crowded."
Aimed especially at boys of an age that would often rather play sports than read about them, it fills a niche that is not over-crowded."
Helen Norrie, Winnipeg Free Press
"Fun and immensely enjoyable.... Ball fans will enjoy this book."
Ken Setterington, Quill & Quire
"Good characterization and strong, believable sports action.... A recommended purchase."
Dave Jenkinson, Canadian Book Review Annual
"Curve Ball by John Danakas is for older readers who still enjoy chapter books... fast-moving play descriptions by Danakas give the book an added pinch of authenticity that matches Tom's playing."
Joan Weller, Ottawa Citizen
"Author John Danakas brings coaching and writing experience to this first novel. He creates a likeable character in Tom, whose resentment and sullen attitude are as believable as his excitement and anxieties over baseball.... Curve Ball should be well received by sports fans."
Jennifer Johnson, Canadian Materials
"Great story for baseball loving middle graders."
Linda Limbach,, Educator at Orange Schools, NetGalley Reviewer
"The simple, straightforward plot will encourage reluctant readers to continue...The easy dialogue and well written and focussed attention to baseball will keep sports fans interested."
Corinne Matthews,, Resource Links
Awards
Canadian Children's Book Centre Best Books for Kids & Teens
Subjects (BISAC)
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