Safe At Second - Softcover

Johnson, Scott

3.8

61 ratings by Goodreads

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0698118774 ISBN 13: 9780698118775

Publisher: Puffin Books, 2001

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Todd Bannister has it all: a fastball made for the majors, scouts lining up at his door, a beautiful girlfriend, and his best friend Paulie--his number one fan. It seems nothing can stop the bright future that lies ahead. But all it takes is one line drive--and Todd takes it square in the face, and loses an eye. Things are different now. Will Todd have the strength to give up his old dreams and move on? Will Paulie? Scott Johnson weaves a masterful tale about what happens after the big game in this engrossing coming-of-age story.

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About the Author:

Scott Johnson lives in Mahopac, New York.

From School Library Journal:

Grade 7 Up-As a "can't miss" pitching prospect, Todd Bannister has scouts, agents, and recruiters begging for his attention and, as a good-looking, self-assured star athlete, he has fellow students and many adults doing the same. All of this comes to an abrupt end when he is hit in the face by a line drive and loses an eye. His attempt to come back is unsuccessful as he can no longer control his pitches and is pounded unmercifully whenever he is put into a game. Initially angry and bitter, he eventually comes to a kind of acceptance of his new status and takes the first steps to getting on with his life. Todd is a fascinating character, by turns conceited and considerate, cruel and kind, thoughtful and thoughtless. With just a few deft brush strokes, Johnson demonstrates how a basically decent kid can succumb to the blandishments of an adoring public, accept their adulation as his due, and even use his position to manipulate people. The book is narrated by Todd's best friend and biggest supporter, Paulie Lockwood, who must come to terms with the way the changes in Todd's life affect his own. As Todd works through his tragic situation and his hubris gives way to a hard-won wisdom, readers will respond with empathy and compassion. This compelling work transcends the category of sports fiction. Its characters are complex, rounded, and fully realized, and its themes are universal. An outstanding novel.
Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

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