Review of Baseball Humor
Posted: 07 Aug 2024, 01:34
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Baseball Humor" by Ward Paxton, Editor & Narrator.]
“Baseball Humor" by Ward Paxton, Editor and Narrator, is a delightful anthology that captures the lighter side of America’s pastime. This collection, featuring 14 charming and rib-tickling tales originally published in the 1910s and 1920s, offers a nostalgic glimpse into an era when baseball was the dominant professional sport and a significant part of everyday life. The stories cover a range of human emotions and experiences, from the struggles and quirks of players and managers to the passions and antics of fans and their families.
The lineup of authors includes literary giants like P.G. Wodehouse, Zane Grey, and Grantland Rice, among others, all of whom bring their unique flair to the game. The stories are not just about baseball; they are timeless yarns that explore universal themes of ambition, greed, romance, and humor. Whether it’s the hilarious “The Pitcher and the Plutocrat” by Wodehouse or the entertaining “The Red-Headed Outfield” by Grey, each tale is a joy to read, even for those who may not be die-hard baseball fans. The beauty of this collection lies in its ability to appeal to a broad audience through well-crafted storytelling.
What stands out is the collection’s ability to transport readers back to a time when baseball truly was the national pastime. The anecdotes, whether funny or heartwarming, offer a wonderful feel for how the game was intricately woven into the fabric of daily life. The humor in the stories is both lighthearted and insightful, poking fun at the idiosyncrasies of the sport and its enthusiasts.
In addition to the written version, the narrated edition, performed by Ward Paxton, adds another layer of enjoyment. Paxton’s performance of classic pieces, including the well-known tale of Casey, is particularly noteworthy and enhances the overall experience. His excellent narration makes it worthwhile to consider getting both the written and narrated versions, especially as a gift.
It’s difficult to find anything truly negative to say about this anthology. It’s a captivating collection that beautifully captures the essence of baseball’s humor and nostalgia, which I find particularly endearing. The only issue is the editing; the book was not professionally well edited, and I noticed several grammatical and typographical errors. As a result, I’ll rate the book 4 out of 5 stars. Despite these issues, the collection’s overall charm and quality of storytelling make it a memorable read.
“Baseball Humor" is a delightful read that will make you chuckle, reminisce, and appreciate the timeless nature of good storytelling. Whether you’re a baseball aficionado or just someone who enjoys a good laugh, this collection is a wonderful addition to your shelves. I highly recommend it for its humor, historical insight, and the sheer joy of experiencing great stories from some of the best writers of the early 20th century.
******
Baseball Humor
View: on Bookshelves
“Baseball Humor" by Ward Paxton, Editor and Narrator, is a delightful anthology that captures the lighter side of America’s pastime. This collection, featuring 14 charming and rib-tickling tales originally published in the 1910s and 1920s, offers a nostalgic glimpse into an era when baseball was the dominant professional sport and a significant part of everyday life. The stories cover a range of human emotions and experiences, from the struggles and quirks of players and managers to the passions and antics of fans and their families.
The lineup of authors includes literary giants like P.G. Wodehouse, Zane Grey, and Grantland Rice, among others, all of whom bring their unique flair to the game. The stories are not just about baseball; they are timeless yarns that explore universal themes of ambition, greed, romance, and humor. Whether it’s the hilarious “The Pitcher and the Plutocrat” by Wodehouse or the entertaining “The Red-Headed Outfield” by Grey, each tale is a joy to read, even for those who may not be die-hard baseball fans. The beauty of this collection lies in its ability to appeal to a broad audience through well-crafted storytelling.
What stands out is the collection’s ability to transport readers back to a time when baseball truly was the national pastime. The anecdotes, whether funny or heartwarming, offer a wonderful feel for how the game was intricately woven into the fabric of daily life. The humor in the stories is both lighthearted and insightful, poking fun at the idiosyncrasies of the sport and its enthusiasts.
In addition to the written version, the narrated edition, performed by Ward Paxton, adds another layer of enjoyment. Paxton’s performance of classic pieces, including the well-known tale of Casey, is particularly noteworthy and enhances the overall experience. His excellent narration makes it worthwhile to consider getting both the written and narrated versions, especially as a gift.
It’s difficult to find anything truly negative to say about this anthology. It’s a captivating collection that beautifully captures the essence of baseball’s humor and nostalgia, which I find particularly endearing. The only issue is the editing; the book was not professionally well edited, and I noticed several grammatical and typographical errors. As a result, I’ll rate the book 4 out of 5 stars. Despite these issues, the collection’s overall charm and quality of storytelling make it a memorable read.
“Baseball Humor" is a delightful read that will make you chuckle, reminisce, and appreciate the timeless nature of good storytelling. Whether you’re a baseball aficionado or just someone who enjoys a good laugh, this collection is a wonderful addition to your shelves. I highly recommend it for its humor, historical insight, and the sheer joy of experiencing great stories from some of the best writers of the early 20th century.
******
Baseball Humor
View: on Bookshelves