Painting the Game by Patricia MacLachlan

What worked:

This book has a feel-good story with absolutely no negativity. There’s no violence, no profanity, and not even a single disagreement. Lucy gets along with her parents and misses her father when he’s away playing baseball. Hugs and kisses await when he returns and braiding Lucy’s hair has special meaning for them. Her father’s catcher lives next and he’s treated like part of the family as is his dog, Ruby. Ruby loves to be around Lucy and the dog most enjoys playing catch. Yes, Ruby catches the ball and can toss it back to the thrower.

Baseball is a major part of the plot. Lucy’s father hopes to pitch in the major leagues and Lucy carefully watches him while he practices. She’s always thought the pitcher’s mound is a scary place to stand but she begins to think that she’ll give it a try. However, she practices secretly and wants to surprise her parents when she’s ready. Lucy’s mother also has a surprise for her daughter and husband but it’s the one thing that doesn’t involve baseball. These loving secrets between Lucy’s family members are the main conflicts in the book.

What didn’t work as well:

Readers who don’t enjoy sports probably won’t like this book very much. Also, as you may have guessed, the plot doesn’t generate much tension or suspense since the main conflicts involve family secrets. However, there’s nothing bad about them and readers can easily predict how things will turn out.

The final verdict:

This book will appeal to readers looking for a story that features the best in family relationships. Everything about it will make readers feel happy and peaceful and I recommend you give this book a shot.