Well-written and interesting story about the childhood and early career of baseball great Stan Musial. Even non-sports-enthisiasts like this reader will find plenty to enjoy here.

Listed as part of the author's Donora Story Collection, this definitely stands on its own. ( )

For historical fiction fans who also enjoy baseball this is definitely a must read. Kathleen Shoop introduces you to the Stan Musial, who grew up in the harsh mill town of Donora to become a baseball legend. With the authors vast amount of research she then adds her incredible story writing to bring Stan's childhood to life. Born under a pink moon Stan Musial was believed to be destined for great things according to beliefs. I think he must have been born with a baseball in his hands because he lived and breathed baseball every minute of every day, against his disgruntled father who saw this as a waste of time with his only hope in life to follow in his footsteps and all those around him by working in the mills.

I loved the heartwarming way the story is told as you join Grandpa in his care home along with his loving grandson Owen as they share special moments together reliving the memories of Stan Musial. They work their way through the special book that Grandpa's wife and sister had created on Donora so many years ago. The love between the two is so heartwarming.

The beauty of this story is Stan himself, his character shines so bright, and the love he has for his deeply devoted mother Mary and all those around him is so lovely to read about. The fiction doesn't detract from the harshness of living in the smog filled mill town of Donora, the dark dense air and noise from the mills they had to endure, the hardships they all faced, especially during depression, and how badly this affected the men of the town. Many immigrants, including Stan's father, landed in Donora with the promise of 'The American Dream' and what they received in return was far from it. The writing is so detailed it makes for very realistic reading you can feel the tension, anger, and sadness fall from the pages.

This was such a warm, realistic, touching story of how a young man achieved his dreams against all the odds, surrounded by his devoted mother, and his loving, loyal friends and family he was blessed to have. Sad moments, funny moments, all mixed together for another delightful and very interesting read by one of my favorite authors. ( )

I have to admit over the years Donora has become one of my favorite places to visit. Shoop has this amazing ability to transport you through time with her words. This story will absolutely tug at your heart strings, the characters are so life-like that you can't help but feel for them. I wish I could've sat and listened to Patryk share his tale, but reading it was wonderful. Even though I really don't know a lot about baseball, this story was easy to follow and really enjoyable. Don't be put off by the size of the book - there's never a dull moment, and you'll be reluctant to set it down once you start. Would definitely give this more than 5 stars if I could! ( )