Blockade Billy-What's it lke?

[Gaz_Uk]

ok...I'll admit I am waivering a little.Although I do like most US sports (and by that I mean American Football and Ice hockey)Baseball just doesn't do anything for me.But a book written by Stephen King ..well.....
As an Englishman with two feet planted on the shores of blighty..and having never visited the USA (although one day ONE DAY I will get to New York) I just don't understand baseball (in the UK we have a game called rounders which to all intents and purposes is played by young girls,I guess that is the closest we get,although I'm sure there are probably some amateur leagues somewhere)
The question I have is taking into the account my above comments...is the book stimulating for any non baseball fan...or will I need a baseball dictionary to help me get through it?

[fushingfeef]

Not much knowledge of baseball is necessary to enjoy this book. All you have to know is there is a player on the team called the catcher whose job it is to catch pitches and guard home plate to prevent runners from scoring. This is done by tagging them with his mitt (provided he is holding the ball in his mitt when he does so).

Got it?

[Spideyman]

In my opinion you will enjoy the book for the mystery ( secret) involved within. Yes, there are baseball terms used but you won't be needing a dictionary by your side. I completely enjoyed the story. My neighbor, totally a non sports fan came across with the same feeling- A really good mystery to be solved. Enjoy!

[Percys Wet Trousers]

I was in the same position as you, British, no knowledge of baseball or even been to the USA but i thought the book was one of his best. If you cast the sports aspect aside there's still a deep secret brewing within just waiting to pop out at the end. As for rounders - it's not just for girls! I was pretty good at it

[Doc Wilson]

I dunno man, I'm really enjoying it, about halfway through with it. I would never watch a baseball game, just don't find it entertaining.
(But I did of course play as a kid so I understand the rules and language of the game.)

[mstay]

As a non baseball fan I thought it was short and sweet. (in a creepy sort of way) You just need to know what baseball is and you'll make it through fine. And fushingfeef's explanation above is great!

[Samantha_]

I like baseball ... grew up listening, watching, and attending games. So, the story had a certain feel to me because I like the game. However, it's a good read regardless. I don't think you need to know about baseball to enjoy the book.

[GNTLGNT]

If you like the ole ball orchard, then you'll like this discourse wrapped in a mystery...quick and satisfying read...

[zarlock4]

i hate to say it because Stephen King is my idol. but blockade billy reminded myself of a short version of switchblade, just a baseball version. i sat through the whole book in one afternoon thinking this billy guy has secret powers, or something fantastic, but no he killed people. reminds me of switch blade, the doo asthe little boy, and the killer billy. i want to know why hurry and publish something like that. not to offend Mr king just wondering.

[Cowboy]

It is a good read...you do not have to be a huge baseball fan to enjoy it....just sayin.