Fleeter Than Birds: The 1985 St. Louis Cardinals and Small Ball's Last Hurrah : Book Review

"Fleeter Than Birds" by Doug Feldmann is a captivating historical novel that transports readers to the early 1900s, immersing them in the world of baseball and the remarkable lives of two brothers, Will and Jake. This compelling story centers around their pursuit of becoming professional baseball players and delves into themes of family, friendship, and the unwavering pursuit of one's passions.

One of the outstanding aspects of this novel is the author's skillful depiction of the characters and their journey within the racially segregated world of baseball. Feldmann expertly captures the essence of the era, painting vivid images of baseball games, stadiums, and the social dynamics of the time. This historical backdrop adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, creating a truly immersive reading experience.

The characters in "Fleeter Than Birds" are incredibly well-developed, each possessing a multi-dimensional nature that captivates readers from start to finish. Will and Jake, in particular, are relatable and their motivations are both compelling and inspiring. Their brotherly bond is heartwarming and their determination to overcome obstacles resonates with readers on a deep level. Furthermore, the supporting characters are equally well fleshed out, adding richness and complexity to the story.

The novel's pacing is perfectly balanced, seamlessly blending action-packed baseball scenes with moments of introspection and personal growth. This ensures readers remain engaged and eager to uncover what comes next. Feldmann's writing style is engaging and accessible, allowing readers to easily immerse themselves in the story and get lost within its pages.

In conclusion, "Fleeter Than Birds" is a masterfully researched and captivating historical novel that will appeal to both baseball enthusiasts and those who appreciate stories of personal growth and triumph over adversity. Doug Feldmann's storytelling prowess shines through in this book, cementing it as a worthwhile read for fans of historical fiction.

What are readers saying?

The book "Fleeter Than Birds" by Doug Feldmann has garnered a range of opinions from readers. While some readers commend the book for its thorough exploration of the history, culture, and accomplishments of the Negro baseball league, others have expressed disappointment with its writing style and structure.

Many readers appreciate the extensive research done by the author, as well as his efforts to shed light on a lesser-known aspect of American sports history. They found the book to be well-researched, offering detailed profiles of players and teams that added depth to the narrative and brought authenticity to the story.

However, a number of readers were dissatisfied with the writing style, describing it as dry and lacking emotional engagement. They felt that the author's emphasis on statistics and game details hindered the overall flow of the story, making it challenging to connect with the characters and become invested in their journeys.

Another common criticism pertains to the organization and structure of the book. Some readers found it disjointed and confusing, as the author frequently jumped between different eras and players without a clear narrative thread. This made it difficult to follow the progression of events and grasp the bigger picture.

Some readers also expressed a desire for more personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories. They had hoped for more intimate insights into the lives of the players and the challenges they faced, but felt that the book primarily focused on presenting facts and statistics.

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