Balling the Jack: A Novel

by Frank Baldwin

A young man searching for the perfect time, the perfect woman, and the perfect life finds the rush he needs to sustain him by gambling his paycheck every week--in this this fast-paced, funny excursion into New York's betting parlors, rock clubs, and assorted bedrooms.

Genres: Fiction, Humor

Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

Reviews

[Shawn MacDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been a favorite book of mine for a long time. I try to read it once every 2-3 years. I'm still shocked that nobody has made it into a film.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forget about the darts this is a "Love Story." One gets the feeling Frank has walked the walk among the NYC Irish underworld of gambling and booze. This an adult read so kiddies crack the math book please. It was a fun read from a strictly male point of view. Very much enjoyed traveling through the city with Tom and his friends. Thanks for the memories Frank.

[Paul · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*

[Grant Talabay · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing debut novel. There is little "fluff" between Baldwin's scenes of chaos where a gamble lies around every corner. Be it cards, baseball or any possible curveball life can throw at him, our protagonist takes the challenge. Ultimately culminating with a high stakes dart match, Balling the Jack is rife with musical references and hard drinking. He paints a wonderful photo of NYC as the world hub. The author, obviously still is reliving old college stories which, when woven together, form an amazing tapestry!

[Roel Torres · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best novel I've ever read on the sport of throwing darts.

...okay, that's not fair. In an effort to be clever, it sounds like I'm damning with faint praise.

A novel with an enjoyable protagonist and a strong narrative thrust. This book is a personal favorite.

[William Milks · Rating 5 out of 5]

It came in the mail today. I popped it open this evening. Didn’t stop until I finished it.

It’s a frivolous novel about drinking, gambling, friends, and true love. And the writing is good. I loved it.

Saw the title on a list of “best books about gamblers.” It’s fun.

[Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Novel about a recent college grad obsessed with gambling. I liked it.

[Gary Blum · Rating 5 out of 5]

A novel about the crazy world of Darts! Very much on my recommended list!

[Marcus Devin]

$11.00

[Garth · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sex, darts, and heavy drinking--bogged down by stock characters, cliches, and a predictable plot.

[Ross Cavins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great little novel. Fun read.