Brooks on Books: The Soul of Baseball by Joe Posnanski

Anyone not charmed by Buck O'Neil in Ken Burns' "Baseball" deserves 10 years in Leavenworth, or maybe 11 years in Twelveworth. The former Negro Leagues player and manager, major league coach, scout, and longtime ambassador for the game comes across even better in this amazing book.

I'm going to celebrate the new season with a series of posts about baseball books I've read over the last year or so, and there's no better way to kick it off than by talking about Joe Posnanski's account of a road trip he took with Buck O'Neil as the legend promoted the Negro League Baseball Museum in particular, but also the Negro Leagues and baseball itself in general. I'm not exaggerating when I say this one will not just excite you about the return of the game, it won't just make you happy to be a fan, but it will make you happy to be alive. If I phrase that in a corny manner, don't worry, the book is sincere and heartfelt but never corny.

In fact, Posnanski doesn't need to force sentiment or positivity into his text; merely by showcasing the words of Buck O'Neil and relating his stories--the ones he tells about his past as well as the new ones that are formed during the road trip--he produces an naturally engaging read. But don't let me give you the impression this is just a transcription job. No, Posnanski has a great eye for detail and an ear for dialogue. He knows when to inject himself into the narrative and acknowledge his presence and when to back off and let it be Buck's story. The one gimmick he utilizes is an effective one: Describing Buck's words as often lyrical, occasionally, he'll directly quote O'Neil by printing his words in italics, set off from the regular test like lines in a poem or song. Trust me, it works, partly because the author's unerring instincts keep him from overdoing it.

A lot happens in this book, and at the same time, not much happens. There are ballparks, radio shows, and other public places to visit, and it's interesting to read about how people react to Buck and how he conducts his informal goodwill tour. But the soul of the book, if you will, are the conversations that take place during those appearances, the discussions he has with fans, officials, and the author. It's got to be impossible to put down this book and not feel some admiration at an elderly man who was locked out of the major leagues (as a player) by racism and was not voted into the Hall of Fame while he was alive, yet refuses to show bitterness or to promote himself. His interest is promoting baseball, promoting the Negro Leagues, and treating his fans with respect and kindness.

Buck wasn't a saint, and Posnanski captures the rascal side of O'Neil as well. For example, he writes that in all their travels, the only time he regularly sees Buck act "old" is when it's time to board an airplane, and he takes full advantage of his age to get seating priority. The guy respected the game and the people around him, but he had fun, too. That's really what this book is about: Enjoying baseball and enjoying life. It's really an inspiration and a great read to get you pumped up for Opening Day.