Timothy Tocher Boeken

Set during the 1920 baseball season, the story follows 16-year-old Hank Cobb as he struggles to train a mischievous Mexican wildcat mascot for the New York Giants. His challenges escalate when he is tasked with watching over the notorious Babe Ruth, leading to a chaotic trip to Coney Island that tests Hank's loyalty and judgment. As he grapples with his dreams of becoming a player and the consequences of his choices, the narrative captures the vibrant atmosphere of baseball's golden age while exploring themes of responsibility and personal growth.

"Easy there," came the voice. "If you’re fixin’ to throw somethin’, at least let me get my mitt on." CHIEF SUNRISE, JOHN McGRAW, AND ME is a middle-grade baseball story featuring an all-American kid head-over-heels in love with the game. On the run from his abusive dad, Hank joins forces with an ace Seminole Indian pitcher who’s determined to break into the big leagues. Together they go in search of the big playing for the New York Giants during their 1919 season. The pair’s picaresque adventures take them from Florida to New York, where nineteen-year-old Chief makes a believer of the Giants’ famed manager, John McGraw, and Hank gets to experience life as a bat boy.

Presents fun facts and trivia about baseball, from its most eccentric players to unexpected events, fun mascots, and surprising fan experiences.