Painting the Black - by Carl Deuker (Paperback)

About the Book

In his senior year of high school, late bloomer Ryan Ward has just begun to feel the magic of baseball - the magic of catching a wicked slider, of throwing a runner out, of training hard and playing hard and pushing his limits. Giving up baseball would be like getting off the most exciting ride of his life. But when one of his teammates clearly pushes the limits too far, Ryan is faced with a heartbreaking dilemma: he must choose between his love for the game and his sense of integrity - two things that, in his mind, baseball should bring together.

Book Synopsis

In his senior year of high school, late bloomer Ryan Ward has just begun to feel the magic of baseball--the thrill of catching a wicked slider, of throwing a runner out, of training hard and playing hard. His friend Josh, the star of the team, has helped Ryan push his limits. But when Josh clearly pushes the limits too far, Ryan is faced with a heartbreaking dilemma: he must choose between his love for the game and his sense of integrity.

Review Quotes

"Deuker, adept at capturing the thrills during the game, proves talented at dramatizing Ryan's torment in the face of his friend's deeds; the depiction of a boy coming into his own is resonant and inspiring." Kirkus Reviews --

About the Author

Carl Deuker is the popular, critically acclaimed author of Payback Time, Gym Candy (a Texas Lone Star title), and Runner (a Booklist Top 10 Sports Book). He lives with his wife and daughter in Seattle, Washington. Visit his website at www.membersauthorsguild.net/carldeuker.