Written by Mike Lupica
Nick has two best buddies that are as close as family to him: Ben and Diego. Baseball is what they love to do together the most. They are in the Little League Championship. They win game after game, even when Nick has a bad night and can’t pitch his best. There are moments when you find yourself at the game and biting your nails. Nick also has another friend, Lauren. whose dad is a Police Officer. Nick’s dad is an undocumented immigrant and Nick lives in fear most days, wondering if his dad will be taken away.
Micheal Arroyo is the star pitcher for the Yankees and Nick’s idol. This second book in the Heat series continues with Michael helping Nick’s family when they are faced with the same situation as Micheal was as a young man. Lupica touches on the immigration issues facing so many these days and the struggle to make a better life for their families.
Nick is the Little League MVP and is awarded the chance to throw out the first pitch at Yankee Stadium. This is another dream of Nick’s. Michael Arroyo testifies for Nick’s father, Victor Garcia. so that Victor can come back to his family and not be taken by Immigration. All of Nick’s dreams come true. This is a very enjoyable read.
Reviewed by Marcia Ingram, Library Media Educational Technology Specialist, Eisenhower Jr. High
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 6-12
Strike Zone
Written by Mike Lupica
Philomel Books
249 pages
Release Date: September 10, 2019
ISBN: 9780525514886
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
