The Big Field

Mike Lupica
47 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Middle Grade
Published in 2008

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Book Brief

Mike Lupica

The Big Field

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Children`s Literature

•

Education

•

Realistic Fiction
Setting

Florida • Contemporary

Theme
Conflict

•

Perseverance

•

Fathers
Topic
Education

•

Sports
First Publication Year

2008

Publisher

Philomel Books

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

970L

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Super Short Summary

The Big Field by Mike Lupica follows 14-year-old baseball player Keith "Hutch" Hutchinson as he and teammate Darryl Williams navigate their team's journey to the South Florida regionals and beyond while addressing themes of the hopes and pressures of young athletes, the necessity of teamwork, and complex father-son relationships.

Adventurous

Inspirational

Emotional

Heartwarming

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.1

6,910 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

A well-regarded sports novel, Mike Lupica's The Big Field captivates young readers with its realistic portrayal of baseball and complex father-son relationships. Reviewers praise its engaging plot and relatable characters. However, some note that the narrative may be predictable for older audiences. Overall, it's a hit for sports enthusiasts and young teens.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Big Field?

A reader who would enjoy The Big Field by Mike Lupica is likely a young sports enthusiast, particularly interested in baseball. They would appreciate stories depicting teamwork, perseverance, and personal growth. Fans of The Bad News Bears and Heat by Mike Lupica may find this book appealing as well.

4.1

6,910 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

The main character, a dedicated baseball player for the Cardinals who admires Derek Jeter and strives to be a superstar shortstop while balancing family dynamics.

A talented and aloof player on Hutch's team, known for his superstar potential and complex relationship with Hutch.

Hutch's father, a working-class man with a complicated history with baseball who is concerned about Hutch's passion for the sport.

Hutch’s loyal best friend and teammate, known for his humor and supportive nature.

Hutch’s mother, originally from Puerto Rico, who offers emotional support and cultural richness to the family.

The coach of the Cardinals, who is disciplined but mindful of his players’ well-being.

The Cardinals’ closer who plays a minor but consistent role on the team.

The catcher for the Cardinals, responsible for managing the pitching staff.

Contributes by playing left field and pitching occasionally for the Cardinals.

Plays first base and is also the ace pitcher when not in his usual position.

The third baseman for the Cardinals, part of the team's infield lineup.

Occupies first base for the Cardinals, participating in both offense and defense.

The team’s centerfield player, covering ground in the outfield.

Plays first base and takes on pitching duties at times for the Cardinals.

Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Children`s Literature

•

Education

•

Realistic Fiction
Setting

Florida • Contemporary

Theme
Conflict

•

Perseverance

•

Fathers
Topic
Education

•

Sports
First Publication Year

2008

Publisher

Philomel Books

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

970L

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