The Closer: Young Readers Edition

Gr 5–8—In this autobiography, Rivera describes how he went from a poor boy in a humble fishing village in Panama to one of the greatest New York Yankee baseball heroes. A ninth-grade high school dropout who worked on his father's fishing boat, Rivera played pickup baseball with improvised bats, balls, and gloves because there was no money for sports equipment. When he joined a local team, his outstanding pitching skill was discovered by professional baseball scouts, and eventually he was hired by the Yankees as a closing pitcher—a career that spanned 18 years. Rivera discusses his marriage to childhood sweetheart, Clara; his heartfelt love for his children and friends; his dedication to the game despite loss and injury; and the deep Christian faith that guided him through it all. Baseball fans will appreciate and enjoy relevant play-by-play details of significant games and championship competitions. This edition closely follows the original version written for adults, including more toned down spiritual aspects and the same appealing eight-page color photo insert. A must for young baseball fans, especially those who follow the Yankees, and those who enjoyed R.A. Dickey's Throwing Strikes (Dial, 2013).—Diane P. Tuccillo, Poudre River Public Library District, CO