Bases Loaded: Aspects of the Baseball Novel

"Bases Loaded" serves as a comprehensive tour of the baseball novel, comprising an annotated bibliography of hundreds of works that span the years from 1838 to 2022. This extensive catalog covers novels where baseball takes center stage, as well as renowned mainstream works that include significant references to the game. The book meticulously categorizes the literature into distinct genres including mysteries, science fiction and fantasy, ethnic and gender narratives, and fictional accounts of real-life players.

From Richard Rosen's Harvey Blissberg to Michael Geller's Slots Resnick, the book reviews a host of mystery novels that have evolved into series. The fantasy realm of baseball literature is illuminated by works from authors like W.P. Kinsella and Michael Chabon, while the intersection of baseball and science fiction is brought to life through novels like Sparky Lyle's "The Year I Owned the Yankees" and Richard Lupoff's "Countersolar!"

"Bases Loaded" also delves into the portrayal of race and ethnicity in baseball literature, with reviews of novels tackling racial issues and cultural conflicts. The roles of females in baseball literature are also thoroughly examined, spanning players, managers, sportswriters, fans, and front office personnel. Lastly, the book details a wealth of novels featuring fictionalized versions of real players, including Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Jackie Robinson, among others.

A treasure for baseball aficionados and fiction enthusiasts alike, "Bases Loaded" serves as a detailed guide to the multifaceted intersection of literature and America's favorite pastime.