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I spent my childhood summers at the ballpark. From the days of my stroller where I’m told concession stand fries pacified me to the days of coloring on rocks found under bleachers and eventually, being able to wander over to the playground, I have such fond memories of the parks.
I don’t remember a time before knowing the terminology or understanding how the game worked. I was one of my brother’s biggest fans and while I couldn’t tell you any stats about him, I could tell you in great detail how I felt every time he stepped up to the plate.
I could describe for you the time my dad reassured me it was how the game worked as I screamed about the injustice of the opposing team continuing to run around the bases after our outfielder was nailed by the ball and they both dropped on the field.
I could describe how I would move to the edge of the bleachers, curl my toes and feel my stomach rumble when a player had a full count, how a home run had the magic to launch me from my seat-arms waving, cheers erupting. I am thankful for the game for giving me these memories.
@PhilBildner allowed me to bask in the sights and sounds and feelings of my childhood summers at the ballpark in his newest book, A High Five for Glenn Burke. In typical Phil fashion, he also creates complex characters that burrow into our hearts.
They make us laugh, they make us feel strong emotions and because Phil always creates characters we can connect with, he gets us thinking about our own lives and the choices we make. His books invite us to learn and reflect. A High Five for Glenn Burke stands on my bookshelf.
Loved. Cherished. Nestled in with my other favorites. Brushing my fingers along its spine, I’ll relive the best memories I have of my brother. I’ll pause and think about Silas. I’ll smile for all the readers that will connect with this book in their own ways. Thank you, Phil.
