Bases Loaded

"Bases Loaded" is an in-depth exploration of the rich history of baseball in literature, offering an annotated bibliography of novels that dive deep into the world of baseball, spanning from 1838 to 2022.

"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.

Noel Schraufnagel, a retired English professor with a deep-seated passion for sports, is the author of "Bases Loaded." An avid baseball player in his youth, Noel has experience spanning American Legion, high school, college, and semi-pro baseball. Noel's academic prowess is demonstrated through his past works, including "From Apology to Protest: The Black American Novel" and "The Baseball Novel: A History and Annotated Bibliography of Adult Fiction." His commitment to English literature was recognized with the Chisholm Award during his undergraduate years at the University of Wisconsin - River Falls. He was also awarded an NDEA Fellowship at the University of Nebraska, where he earned his Ph.D. in 1971. For over three decades, Noel shared his passion for literature and sports with students at Alcorn State University in Mississippi. He now enjoys his retirement in Columbus, Georgia with his wife Darlene.