Super-Sized Slugger by Cal Ripken Jr and Kevin Cowherd-ADVISABLE

Ripken, Jr., Cal and Cowherd, Kevin, Super-Sized Slugger. Disney Hyperion, 2012. Pgs. 183. Language: G, Violence: PG, Sexual Content: G

Cody Parker is a chunky, lovable baseball player who has just moved to a town in Baltimore, Maryland. Hoping to meet a few friends and foster his love of baseball, he tries out for the Orioles League team. Much to his happiness, he convinces the coach to place him as third baseman on the baseball team, but incurs the wrath of the school bully, Dante Rizzo. When he finally shakes the bully, a bunch of electronics start getting stolen at school. To make matters worse, Dante keeps telling everyone that it had to be Cody who stole them. If it ends up being true, Cody will be kicked off the school baseball team or worse. Is Dante behind the thefts? If not, who is? Will Cody be able to shake his bully problems and remain on the baseball team?

A fun mystery for baseball fans. The characters are likable and humorous. The plot is simple, but intriguing. Readers who like baseball, sports, mysteries, and realistic fiction will enjoy reading this. EL (4-6). ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Kira M, Youth Services Librarian, WHI Public Library.