Bums: An Oral History of the Brooklyn Dodgers : Book Review

"Bums: An Oral History of the Brooklyn Dodgers" by Peter Golenbock is a captivating and detailed account of the beloved baseball team. Through a collection of interviews and personal stories, Golenbock brings to life the golden era of the Brooklyn Dodgers, primarily focusing on the decades leading up to their move to Los Angeles in 1957.

The book immerses readers in the lives and careers of the players, coaches, and even the passionate fans who showed unwavering devotion to the team. Golenbock's use of oral history gives a unique perspective, allowing readers to directly hear from those who experienced the glory and heartbreak associated with being a Brooklyn Dodgers fan.

The author provides a comprehensive look at the team's successes and failures, including their legendary battle with the New York Yankees in the 1955 World Series, which resulted in the Dodgers' long-awaited championship victory. Golenbock also delves into the racial integration of baseball, highlighting the groundbreaking accomplishments of Dodgers player Jackie Robinson and the profound impact it had on both the team and the city of Brooklyn.

A notable strength of "Bums" is Golenbock's talent for capturing the passion and nostalgia surrounding the Brooklyn Dodgers. His writing transports readers back to a bygone era of baseball, painting a vivid picture of the time and place. The book is filled with captivating anecdotes and personal accounts that breathe life into the story, making it an absolute must-read for any fan of the sport.

Overall, "Bums: An Oral History of the Brooklyn Dodgers" is a well-researched and engaging tribute to one of the most iconic and beloved teams in the history of baseball. Golenbock's storytelling, combined with the firsthand accounts of those who lived it, makes this book an essential read for both Dodgers fans and anyone interested in the rich history of America's favorite pastime.

What are readers saying?

Peter Golenbock's book "Bums" has received a range of reviews, with some readers finding it engaging and detailed, while others felt it lacked depth in capturing the legacy of the Brooklyn Dodgers baseball team.

Many reviewers appreciated the thorough research and vivid storytelling in the book. They found Golenbock's ability to bring the team and its players to life to be captivating, providing valuable insights into their dynamics, victories, and struggles. Readers enjoyed delving into the history of the Dodgers and reliving the glory days of baseball in Brooklyn. The book's well-written and engaging style made it a great choice for fans of the sport and those interested in baseball history.

However, some readers had a different perspective. They felt that the book lacked the depth and analysis they were hoping for. These reviewers expressed disappointment in the absence of in-depth player profiles and a more thorough exploration of the social and cultural impact of the team. They found the book to be too focused on game-by-game accounts, which became repetitive and overshadowed the broader narrative.

Additionally, some reviewers mentioned that Golenbock's writing style was inconsistent. While some appreciated his storytelling skills, others found the writing to be overly nostalgic and sentimental. They believed that the author's personal biases and fondness for the team sometimes hindered the objectivity of the narrative.

In summary, "Bums" by Peter Golenbock has divided readers' opinions. While some found it engaging and detailed, others felt that it lacked depth in capturing the legacy of the Brooklyn Dodgers. If you are a baseball fan interested in learning about the team's history, this book may be worth exploring. However, if you prefer a more nuanced and analytical approach to sports history, you might find it lacking in certain aspects.

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