Our Game: An American Baseball History - Softcover

CHARLES C. ALEXANDER, formerly a distinguished professor of history at Ohio University, is the author of a number of books, including Our Game: An American Baseball History and the celebrated biographies Ty Cobb and John McGraw.

Recent histories of baseball have ranged in scope from the cultural considerations of Harold Seymour's Baseball: The People's Game ( LJ 7/90), to the anecdotal reflections of John Bowman and Joel Zoss's Diamonds in the Rough ( LJ 12/89), to the biographical recollections of Gerald Astor's The Baseball Hall of Fame 50th Anniversary Book ( LJ 10/1/88). Alexander's work combines elements of all three perspectives in an effort to trace the evolution of the game as a sport, business, and social institution. Principal attention is given to the origins of the various leagues and franchises, major scandals, the reserve clause controversy, the breaking of the color line, and preeminent teams, owners, and players. The result is a commendable blend of people and events, particularly suited to libraries seeking a single-volume history of the game. For a roundup of new and forthcoming baseball books see "Spring Baseball Lineup," LJ 2/15/91.--Ed .
- William H. Hoffman, Ft. Myers-Lee Cty. P.L., Fla.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.