cover image Duel on the Diamond

Duel on the Diamond

Tommy Hallowell. Puffin Books, $3.5 (128pp) ISBN 978-0-14-032910-0

Seventh-grader Dennis Clements is looking forward to the upcoming baseball season. With Dennis and his three best friends in the starting lineup, the team can't lose. That is, until Dennis and Duane Potter have a disagreement that eventually divides the team in two. Suddenly the two boys' friends are feuding and pulling pranks on one another that become more dangerous than amusing. As the team's morale declines, so does their winning record. When Duane gets kicked off the team, Dennis decides it is time for everyone to settle their differences and earn some victories. Together, Dennis and Duane manage to hold the team together and accomplish this difficult feat. One of two titles in the new Alden All Stars series, Hallowell's fast-paced story is sure to be a hit with young readers. Ages 8 - 12. (Apr.)