One of the most famous and beloved baseball legends of all times is Mickey Mantle. Many books and articles have been written about the sports hero. In his book, Mickey Mantle, Rookie in Pinstripes, author Fred Glueckstein, delivers an in-depth account of Mickey Mantle’s life covering his early life to his 1951 rookie year.
Glueckstein presents a comprehensive story of how events in Mickey’s young life, particularly his relationship with his father, early teammates and coaches, as well as significant incidents that influenced and shaped him to become a baseball legend. Glueckstein chronicles his childhood as a “shy youngster with blond hair and freckles from rural Oklahoma.” Raised in a family with a strong work ethic, readers will gain insight into the deep connection Mickey had with his father and the trials and tribulations he faced and conquered. Not only do we gain insight into his personal struggles, Glueckstein also shares the influences of such baseball greats as Yogi Berra, Hank Bauer and Phil Rizzuto. Memorable events such as meeting Joe DiMaggio were both emotional and inspiring: “With Joe DiMaggio, I couldn’t even mumble hello. It was as if you needed an appointment just to approach him.” As well, readers will discover how other baseball legends felt about Mickey.
Along with a very detailed account of Mickey’s childhood and rookie year, Glueckstein is able to capture the excitement of the era making one feel as though they are reliving legendary moments in baseball history. What makes the story such a fascinating and compelling read, is how much research went into writing the book which includes documented conversations, letters, pictures of Mickey during childhood, and baseball stats. The book is skillfully crafted to allow readers to see a personal side of Mickey that was burdened with such struggles as personal loss, overcoming weaknesses in terms of playing performance, and the pain endured from physical injuries. Readers will gain a candid look into how the baseball legend was made with the strong influence of his father shaping his determination, resolve, dedication, and the love of the game. It is an inspiring story of never giving up on a dream.
Mickey Mantle is highly recommended not only to baseball fans, but to readers who enjoy stories about sports legends that understood that the driving force for success wasn’t fame or fortune, but the true love of the game.
Tracy Roberts, Write Field Services
Publisher: iUniverse, Inc. (April 29, 2008)
ISBN-10: 0595469213
ISBN-13: 978-0595469215
Available: Amazon.com
More reviews about the Mickey Mantle: Rookie in Pinstripes