Ray & Me

Children's Literature - Jennie DeGenaro

When boys and girls look for something interesting to read, they should consider reading Dan Gutman's book. It will entertain and inform them about baseball in the past. There is a mysterious component in which Stosh, the main character, has the ability to go back in time. While playing baseball, Stosh is hit in the head by a baseball. He is hospitalized and afterward loses interest in the game. His coach encourages him to continue to play, but Stosh hasn't decided whether or not to return to the team. Stosh uses his mysterious technique to go to New York with the intention of saving Ray Chapman's life from being hit by a baseball. He is unsuccessful in his desire to help Chapman and returns home. Doctor Wright, who treated Stosh when he was hit by a ball, asks to go with Stosh and try to save Chapman's life. Dr. Wright disguises himself and off they go to New York by Stosh's mysterious method. When they get to the hospital, Chapman is dying; however, the doctor in charge does not recognize Dr. Wright as the expert he is. The staff place Stosh and Dr. Wright in straitjackets and leave them in a sound-proof room with no method of escape. Young readers will find it interesting learning how Dr. Wright and Stosh solve this dilemma. Dan Gutman has written eight other "Baseball Card Adventures" as well as books about various sports that boys and girls will enjoy reading. Reviewer: Jennie DeGenaro