Review of "Casey At the Bat," drawings by LeRoy Neiman

Review of

Casey At the Bat, drawings by LeRoy Neiman ISBN 0060090685

Five out of five stars

 There is no question that “Casey at the Bat” is one of the most entertaining and best written poems in the English language. The rhythm of the prose and mental imagery of the powerful batter-hero Casey as he stands purposefully at the plate is an event that is a joy to repeat. Although the poem was written in 1888, it captures a timeless aspect of baseball that has not changed, the dramatic at-bat with the game on the line.

 This version features some very high-quality drawings by LeRoy Nieman that depict the events in modern form. Casey is wearing a batting helmet and a modern uniform with a name and number on the back. The umpire and catcher are outfitted in full protective gear and Casey is blowing bubbles with his gum. Something that none of the old-time players would have ever considered. I found it interesting that Casey is wearing a pinstripe uniform.

 This is a wonderful book, the perfect one for all baseball fans to read once again as the players are now in spring training, getting ready for another season of mighty swings with hits and misses.