Samurai Shortstop | Alan M. Gratz

In 1890s Tokyo, young Toyo is determined to prove himself at boarding school through the exciting new sport of baseball. While Japan races toward modernization and leaves old traditions behind, Toyo continues to mourn his late uncle, a samurai who gave his life for his beliefs. Hoping to preserve his family’s heritage, Toyo’s father begins teaching him the discipline and values of the samurai. Though his father strongly rejects baseball as a symbol of Western influence, Toyo soon discovers that the focus, honor, and perseverance he learns through samurai training help him thrive on the baseball field. As Toyo struggles between tradition and change, he must find a way to honor his family’s samurai legacy while embracing the future of a rapidly changing Japan. Could baseball become the bridge between two worlds—or will his father never accept the game that represents everything he fears? Historical Fiction / 歷史小說 Sports Fiction / 運動小說 Middle Grade & Young Adult Fiction / 兒童與青少年小說