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Mudball
Matt Tavares brings to life a winning tale of the shortest home run in history with the help of his luminous artwork and an infectious love of the game.
CRACK!
Somehow, Andy's bat had hit the ball. Everybody heard it . . . but nobody saw where it went.
Andy Oyler is the shortest player on his baseball team, the Minneapolis Millers, not to mention the whole league. And no matter how hard he tries, he just can't seem to get a hit. But one fateful spring day in 1903, a sudden change in the weather leads to a change in Andy Oyler’s luck—and as Andy soon discovers, even the shortest player can become the game's biggest hero! Matt Tavares brings one of baseball's legendary stories to life and champions the underdog in all of us. Helping readers keep score is a bibliography and final note from the author about this uplifting all-American tale.
CRACK!
Somehow, Andy's bat had hit the ball. Everybody heard it . . . but nobody saw where it went.
Andy Oyler is the shortest player on his baseball team, the Minneapolis Millers, not to mention the whole league. And no matter how hard he tries, he just can't seem to get a hit. But one fateful spring day in 1903, a sudden change in the weather leads to a change in Andy Oyler’s luck—and as Andy soon discovers, even the shortest player can become the game's biggest hero! Matt Tavares brings one of baseball's legendary stories to life and champions the underdog in all of us. Helping readers keep score is a bibliography and final note from the author about this uplifting all-American tale.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published February 3, 2005
2 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
Matt Tavares
35 books142 followersMatt Tavares was born in Boston, and grew up surrounded by books and reading. From the time he was very young, his mother read to him every night, and his family made countless trips to the public library. Years later, as a studio art major at Bates College, he rediscovered his love for picture books, and decided to try to make his own.
For his senior thesis project, Matt wrote and illustrated a story called Sebastian's Ball, which eventually became Zachary's Ball, Matt's first published picture book. Zachary's Ball went on to win a Massachusetts Book Award Honor, and was named one of Yankee Magazine's 40 Classic New England Children's Books.
Since then, Matt has published eighteen more books and has won several awards, including three Parents' Choice Gold Awards, an Orbis Pictus Honor, and two ALA Notable books. His artwork has been exhibited at the Museum of American Illustration, the Brandywine River Museum, and the Mazza Museum of Picture Book Art.
When Matt's not working in his studio on his latest book project, he travels the country speaking (and drawing) at schools, libraries, conferences, and bookstores. He has presented at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Eric Carle Museum, the White House Easter Egg Roll, and he's even done a few book signings at Fenway Park.
Matt lives in Maine with his wife, Sarah, and their two daughters.
For his senior thesis project, Matt wrote and illustrated a story called Sebastian's Ball, which eventually became Zachary's Ball, Matt's first published picture book. Zachary's Ball went on to win a Massachusetts Book Award Honor, and was named one of Yankee Magazine's 40 Classic New England Children's Books.
Since then, Matt has published eighteen more books and has won several awards, including three Parents' Choice Gold Awards, an Orbis Pictus Honor, and two ALA Notable books. His artwork has been exhibited at the Museum of American Illustration, the Brandywine River Museum, and the Mazza Museum of Picture Book Art.
When Matt's not working in his studio on his latest book project, he travels the country speaking (and drawing) at schools, libraries, conferences, and bookstores. He has presented at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Eric Carle Museum, the White House Easter Egg Roll, and he's even done a few book signings at Fenway Park.
Matt lives in Maine with his wife, Sarah, and their two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 10, 2014
"Mudball" takes place in 1903. There is a baseball game happening in this book between the Minneapolis Millers and the St. Paul Saints. Andy Oyler, the shortest player on the team, is up to bat. The bases are loaded, and the Millers have 2 outs. The score is 3-0, the Saints are in the lead. Andy sees the pitch coming at his head, and all of a sudden he hears the ball hit the bat. No one knows where the ball went, and all of the players on base are able to score, including Andy Oyler.
This is a classic story about a baseball game that ends happily for the underdog. The story line doesn't really show much history, per se, however the illustrations show a great deal of detail and reflect what baseball stadiums, uniforms, and crowds looked like in the past. I think that this book has a theme that many can relate to, and boys that enjoy baseball would definitely be able to connect with this book.
This is a classic story about a baseball game that ends happily for the underdog. The story line doesn't really show much history, per se, however the illustrations show a great deal of detail and reflect what baseball stadiums, uniforms, and crowds looked like in the past. I think that this book has a theme that many can relate to, and boys that enjoy baseball would definitely be able to connect with this book.
May 29, 2018
Andy Oyler is the shortest person on his baseball team. Everyone in the league notices. He has another problem too...he can't hit the ball! The story takes place in the early 1900s and the illustrations reflect baseball teams, jerseys, and stadiums during this time period. Will Andy be able to over come his inability to hit the ball? Will those around him forget about how small he is and respect him for his effort and dedication to the game?
April 24, 2021
A cold drizzle turns into pouring rain as Little Andy Oyler steps into the batter’s box for the Minneapolis Millers. As the shortest player in baseball Andy wasn’t expected to get a hit and surprises even himself when he hears the unmistakeable crack of the bat. Tavares does a fine job building drama that even non-baseball readers will enjoy. The muted tones of the watercolor and penciled illustrations evoke the era of the story while bringing the chaos, joy, and mud of the plot to life.
March 7, 2018
I didn't find this story particularly interesting or valuable. There are undoubtedly children who would enjoy it but I don't see myself purchasing it as there are many other great books out there that I would buy first. I would want to use a historical fiction book to tie into important topics in history and I don't see where I would use this one.
September 18, 2023
Genre: Biographical Nonfiction
Grades:1-4
I love how this story takes a real life event and makes it into a fun story for students to learn more about the game of baseball while also learning the valuable life lesson that size doesn’t matter. I love how Andy didn’t let anything stop him no matter what anyone said. And he lived out his dreams.
Grades:1-4
I love how this story takes a real life event and makes it into a fun story for students to learn more about the game of baseball while also learning the valuable life lesson that size doesn’t matter. I love how Andy didn’t let anything stop him no matter what anyone said. And he lived out his dreams.
March 15, 2018
I liked the fun tale of our character overcoming his size to be a hero to his team. I would most likely use this story in my overcoming adversity lesson and discuss with students how they have overcome adversity in their lives.
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June 18, 2019Little Andy Oyler played for the Minneapolis Millers. He was up to bat when it started pouring. He needed to knock in all the runners plus himself to win the game. Could the shortest player win the game for Minneapolis Millers.
March 8, 2021
Read to 5th grade for our Read Across America week, this story takes place in Minnesota. The kids all really liked the story about a player that just wasn't very lucky until one day his luck takes a turn.
May 21, 2019
We were forced to read this in class but it wasn't as bad as some of the books we were forced to read.
September 27, 2019
Great fun read about an underdog helping his team out. Great illustrations.
June 30, 2020
50 States book for Minnesota. Story of a minor league baseball player who is noticeably short and isn’t hitting the ball. Good messages about self-belief.
June 23, 2023
The legend of little Andy Oyler and the shortest homerun hit in history. Even if it's not true, it's a fun baseball tale.
December 16, 2023
Great story that puts you in the action all the while toying with the idea that legends are created in hindsight because we need them as humans.
April 2, 2025
How to win at baseball by being incompetent.
February 5, 2021
Genre: Biography
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This book is about determination and never giving up. Yes, Andy Oyler was short, but he enjoyed playing the game of baseball. Even when he thought of giving up, he kept on trying and because of that determination, he was able to help his team win the game. This is a good story for kids who love baseball and want to learn about the history of the game.
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This book is about determination and never giving up. Yes, Andy Oyler was short, but he enjoyed playing the game of baseball. Even when he thought of giving up, he kept on trying and because of that determination, he was able to help his team win the game. This is a good story for kids who love baseball and want to learn about the history of the game.
March 19, 2015
Mudball, by Matt Tavares is a story about a boy names Andy Oyler, who is the shortest player on his team the Minneapolis Millers, and in the whole league! One rainy day they were playing against the St. Paul Saints, and Andy was up to bat. The other teams fans were heckling him a lot, to the point where he was second guessing his abilities. Because he has never get a hit before. Well it was raining so hard that when the pitcher threw the ball to Andy, part of it slipped out of his hand and was headed right to Andy’s face! Andy somehow moved the bat over by his head and hit the ball! While Andy was running the bases everyone was astonished and started looking for the ball but could not seem to find it. Everyone from the opposite team though Andy stole it and that is was not fair. Finally, after several runs brought home, and the Minneapolis Millers up by one run the ball was found! So the umpire ruled it was a fair game game and the Millers won!
The pictures in this book are mostly black and white with a very subtle hint of some color to depict the very cloudy and rainy day it was. The drawing were done in pencil and watercolor. The cover of the book is of Andy running the bases and everyone behind him searching for the ball. There are many double page spreads in this book where the text bleeds out to the end of the pages, except not over the text. The text is always in front of a white background whether it is at the bottom of the page or in the middle. You can see the rain pouring down on every page. The pictures go along perfectly with the text. If the text says someone is by third base wringing out their shirt, if you look at the picture that is exactly where he is, what he is doing! This book is historical fiction because it is a true story! And in the epilogue of the book it talks about even though it was not a big home run that Andy hit, he still won them the game, and it became history as the shortest home run ever hit, by the shortest player! I enjoyed this book because it tells a story that the underdog can win too!
The pictures in this book are mostly black and white with a very subtle hint of some color to depict the very cloudy and rainy day it was. The drawing were done in pencil and watercolor. The cover of the book is of Andy running the bases and everyone behind him searching for the ball. There are many double page spreads in this book where the text bleeds out to the end of the pages, except not over the text. The text is always in front of a white background whether it is at the bottom of the page or in the middle. You can see the rain pouring down on every page. The pictures go along perfectly with the text. If the text says someone is by third base wringing out their shirt, if you look at the picture that is exactly where he is, what he is doing! This book is historical fiction because it is a true story! And in the epilogue of the book it talks about even though it was not a big home run that Andy hit, he still won them the game, and it became history as the shortest home run ever hit, by the shortest player! I enjoyed this book because it tells a story that the underdog can win too!
November 10, 2010
Mudball by Matt Tavares
Published in 2005 by Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA
Interest Level: 2-6th Grade
Matt Tavares writes a compelling tale about Andy Oyler the shortest player on the Minneapolis Millers who wins a game with the shortest home run ever. Matt researched this rumored event and cites some of his sources in the author's note at the end of the book. He explains that the story is a little-known, virtually undocumented event not unlike when Babe Ruth called where he would hit a home run. There are several sources cited, but according to Tavares there is no first-hand evidence to bolster this legendary story. Tavares uses an announcer's approach to calling the game that include specific names, baseball terms, and illustrations that allows the reader to understand something familiar but realize that it is related to something in the past. The author uses the specific team names and player names, such as the Minneapolis Millers, the St. Paul Saints, and the various names, associated with each position, which allows the reader to have a more authentic experience. In addition, the baseball terms that are used allow the reader to feel as if they are involved in an exciting baseball game that is unfolding through this picture book. Lastly, the illustrations allow the full feeling of an authentic 1930's baseball game to envelop the reader. The framed sepia-toned, watermarked pages provide a sense of nostalgia and old photographs that further authenticate the story. Through the illustrations and details of the story, the reader experiences the dynamic atmosphere that accompanies a game-winning, impossible home run.
Published in 2005 by Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA
Interest Level: 2-6th Grade
Matt Tavares writes a compelling tale about Andy Oyler the shortest player on the Minneapolis Millers who wins a game with the shortest home run ever. Matt researched this rumored event and cites some of his sources in the author's note at the end of the book. He explains that the story is a little-known, virtually undocumented event not unlike when Babe Ruth called where he would hit a home run. There are several sources cited, but according to Tavares there is no first-hand evidence to bolster this legendary story. Tavares uses an announcer's approach to calling the game that include specific names, baseball terms, and illustrations that allows the reader to understand something familiar but realize that it is related to something in the past. The author uses the specific team names and player names, such as the Minneapolis Millers, the St. Paul Saints, and the various names, associated with each position, which allows the reader to have a more authentic experience. In addition, the baseball terms that are used allow the reader to feel as if they are involved in an exciting baseball game that is unfolding through this picture book. Lastly, the illustrations allow the full feeling of an authentic 1930's baseball game to envelop the reader. The framed sepia-toned, watermarked pages provide a sense of nostalgia and old photographs that further authenticate the story. Through the illustrations and details of the story, the reader experiences the dynamic atmosphere that accompanies a game-winning, impossible home run.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2016
Mudball is the story of Andy Oyler who played baseball in 1903 for the Minneapolis Millers. He was not the best player on the team and many people made fun of his abilities. A storm broke out during a game and the teams ended up playing "mud ball". Andy Oyler was up to bat next; did he strike out or did he save his team that afternoon? Read to find out!
The illustrations captured the style and dress of the early 1900's. It was neat to see the different hats and outfits baseball players and spectators wore. The illustrations were very soft with seemed to capture the gentleness of Andy Oyler who wanted to succeed, but was questioning whether or not he could make it in the big leagues. The illustrations also captured a lot of movement (exp: players running to the next base and the rain falling from the sky). This really helped the flow of the book and the reader seemed to get the idea that the game was being played right on the page.
Students in grades 2-5 would enjoy this book. This would be a great edition to a text set on sport's and early 1900's history. Readers will definitely pick up on themes of determination and believing in yourself. Teachers could use this story when discussing plot by tracking each element on an analysis chart as they it aloud to students. Teachers could also use this to discuss point of view by asking students what was going on in other players' or spectators' heads.
The illustrations captured the style and dress of the early 1900's. It was neat to see the different hats and outfits baseball players and spectators wore. The illustrations were very soft with seemed to capture the gentleness of Andy Oyler who wanted to succeed, but was questioning whether or not he could make it in the big leagues. The illustrations also captured a lot of movement (exp: players running to the next base and the rain falling from the sky). This really helped the flow of the book and the reader seemed to get the idea that the game was being played right on the page.
Students in grades 2-5 would enjoy this book. This would be a great edition to a text set on sport's and early 1900's history. Readers will definitely pick up on themes of determination and believing in yourself. Teachers could use this story when discussing plot by tracking each element on an analysis chart as they it aloud to students. Teachers could also use this to discuss point of view by asking students what was going on in other players' or spectators' heads.
July 1, 2010
(2011 Monarch award selection)
No interest in baseball needed!
Part American folktale, part historical fiction, this award-winning picture book is a must-have for all classrooms. It tells the story of Andy Oyler, who in 1903 batted the shortest home run in baseball history. What really makes this book stand out are the illustrations. Reminiscent of Norman Rockwell drawings, the pictures are extremely detailed and expressive, using a very limited color palette. You can practically read the whole story just by looking at the pictures. The author also uses font size in a fun way to drive the narration in the story.
Note for teachers: Although recommended for K-3, I think this book could be used at any elementary grade level. It would be great to support a classroom study on early 20th century America, local heroes, text features (it contains an epilogue, not something you always see in picture books), or sports.
No interest in baseball needed!
Part American folktale, part historical fiction, this award-winning picture book is a must-have for all classrooms. It tells the story of Andy Oyler, who in 1903 batted the shortest home run in baseball history. What really makes this book stand out are the illustrations. Reminiscent of Norman Rockwell drawings, the pictures are extremely detailed and expressive, using a very limited color palette. You can practically read the whole story just by looking at the pictures. The author also uses font size in a fun way to drive the narration in the story.
Note for teachers: Although recommended for K-3, I think this book could be used at any elementary grade level. It would be great to support a classroom study on early 20th century America, local heroes, text features (it contains an epilogue, not something you always see in picture books), or sports.
September 24, 2014
This excellent Matt Tavares baseball picture book tells the story of Minneapolis Miller Andy Oyler, the shortest guy in the league, and the day he hit the shortest home run in baseball history. A rainy field might be most players’ nightmare, but with the help of some timely mud, Andy Oyler has his best game ever. Although the story’s accuracy is hard to verify, Matt Tavares renders that meaningless as Andy Oyler’s mudball game crosses into mythology: a compelling tale with a resonating moral lesson. While the entire plot of Mudball takes place in one at-bat, the book’s narrative is enhanced by detailed, dramatic, captivating drawings. (I would love to have a print of the art on the two-page spread holding the publication info and the title page. Yes, Mudball had me hooked from the publication data page.) This is an excellent choice for a read-aloud, and for all baseball fans.
February 20, 2010
Hooray for the underdog...In Matt Tavares's book Mudball, Minneapolis Millers's shortest player, Andy Oyler hits the shortest homerun ever recorded on a muddy day in spring, 1903. This unusual feat is just the impetus he needs to get his hitting streak going... and he becomes a hero to boot.
Every baseball fan, player, and historian will love this feel-good story about a little known (supposedly true) fact in baseball's glorious history. The pencil and watercolor illustrations make you feel like the mud is a part of the pages and the inspiration is leeking through the words. A true delight for all.
Every baseball fan, player, and historian will love this feel-good story about a little known (supposedly true) fact in baseball's glorious history. The pencil and watercolor illustrations make you feel like the mud is a part of the pages and the inspiration is leeking through the words. A true delight for all.
February 20, 2012
It's the bottom of the ninth. It's raining heavily when Andy Oyler steps up to the plate. Thinking this will be a quick out, the umpire allows the game to go on--and perhaps finish, when Oyler shocks everyone with what would become one of the most celebrated stories in baseball next to Babe Ruth's "called shot."
Tavares brings the mood of the day and the celebration of baseball to this 2005 title, sure to be a hit with your younger guy readers interested in baseball. Tavares has a number of baseball related titles sure to please. Put these out on a display in honor of spring training beginning!
Tavares brings the mood of the day and the celebration of baseball to this 2005 title, sure to be a hit with your younger guy readers interested in baseball. Tavares has a number of baseball related titles sure to please. Put these out on a display in honor of spring training beginning!
May 3, 2012
Tavares write down the story of Andy Oyler, supposedly the shortest player in the league. The mudball of the story refers to what happens to the ball when the ups play through a summer downpour causing much mayhem at a crucial bases loaded, bottom of the ninth, two outs moment. Seem too good to be true, maybe it is but Tavares points out that this is how tall tales form in the American narrative.
April 28, 2013
Since Matt Tavares is a Maine author, I enjoy reading all his books so when I saw this I knew it was a must read on my list. I have always loved the illustrations and how they complement the stories. In this one Little Andy Olyer is a reluctant baseball player. As the story continues, Andy begins to realize that anything is possible. I would recommend this book for children and adults who are baseball fans and route for the underdog.
January 6, 2016
2016 Reading Challenge
Book by a Male Author
4 stars
I love Matt Tavaras' books. I told him at a conference that I wasn't a baseball fan but with Growing Up Pedro and his other baseball books, I am gaining an appreciation for it. This book could also be "Book Based on a True Story" as this story could be true, or based on facts, or might be a exaggerated story, either way it is a warm fuzzy!! Read the Epilogue and Author's notes...lots of good facts and info!
Book by a Male Author
4 stars
I love Matt Tavaras' books. I told him at a conference that I wasn't a baseball fan but with Growing Up Pedro and his other baseball books, I am gaining an appreciation for it. This book could also be "Book Based on a True Story" as this story could be true, or based on facts, or might be a exaggerated story, either way it is a warm fuzzy!! Read the Epilogue and Author's notes...lots of good facts and info!
November 15, 2010
Wonderful and inspiring picture book, that gives a snapshot into the history (and mythology) of the game of baseball. Matt Tavares, based on my wife's getting to hear him speak recently at the school she works at, is a nut for historical accuracy and detail. Great pictures, great story, and one worth sharing with children about how even great things can come from the most unlikely of heroes.
July 25, 2010
Fun folktale about Little Andy Oyler, the shortest pro baseball player hitting the shortest home run in history. Pencil drawings with a hint of color give the story an old-fashioned feel. Great for K-4, boys and girls, especially those interested in sports.
June 11, 2015
This story of Andy Oyler and the shortest home run in history was entertaining and enjoyable. I'd never heard the story before, but as a baseball fan, I was engaged from page one. This is the sort of story that anyone who knows or plays the game could enjoy.
July 30, 2013
Little Andy Oyler is the worst player on his team (a major league team in the early 1900s). After briefly exploring Andy's self-doubts, Andy saves the game in this interestingly illustrated book. Good warm up for t-ball.
May 23, 2014
I'm always looking for books with good lessons that are also entertaining and visually interesting for read alouds at bed time or when I visit the classroom. This one was a hit with my daughter's second grade class and at bedtime.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews