Getaway Day

by Ken White

Getaway Day was selected for the permanent collection at the National Baseball Hall of Fame library in Cooperstown. That credential is on the cover. The story underneath it earns it.

Mikey Wright is thirteen and running out of time. His father has cancer. The 1962 World Series is underway. And Mikey has convinced himself, with the full logic of a boy who has nothing left to lose, that if Mickey Mantle will play catch with his father, something will shift. He sets out from Modesto with that belief and not much else.

The journey takes him to Anaheim, Chicago, and down Route 66. The people he meets along the way are ordinary and extraordinary in equal measure. A freak storm delays the Series and reroutes the Yankees and Giants to Modesto for workouts. Mikey gets closer than he should. What he finds when he gets there is not what he expected.

The San Francisco Book Review called it a fine read in the tradition of baseball as metaphor for the meaning of life. Readers Favorite praised its historical grounding. Dennis Snelling, historian of the Pacific Coast League, called the blend of fact and fiction exactly right.

Book one in the Our Days series. Brighter Day follows Mikey into 1969.

400 pages, Hardcover

First published February 18, 2014

About the author

Ken White retired from the worlds of advertising, corporate communications, and interactive entertainment to concentrate on writing and community service. He holds an A.A. from Modesto Junior College, a B.A. and teaching credential from UC Davis, and an M.A. from San Francisco State University. He has taught mass communications and film appreciation at Modesto Junior College.

His novel Getaway Day was selected for the permanent collection at the National Baseball Hall of Fame library in Cooperstown, New York. Brighter Day continues Mikey Wright's story through 1969. Ken is completing a third novel entitled Dark Day: Tyranny of the Downbeat. Together they form the Our Days series. He has also written screenplays, short stories, stage plays, children's books, and nonfiction.

Born in Lathrop and raised in Modesto, California, most of his stories are rooted in the Central Valley and the people who built their lives there.

Reviews

[Athena Nagel]

This was a really good story - brought me back to my days of baseball card collecting. All the memories. All the trivia is totally awesome as it is woven into a realistic story about love, loss and dreams. The setting of the story is before my time but not by so much that I can't relate. Baseball was my life and to read an entire story of the dreams involved is captivating. I loved it. If you really want a story that is built on nostalgia and relationships - this is the story for you!

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Stacy H]

Ken White’s Getaway Day is a masterfully crafted tapestry of nostalgia, resilience, and the intricate bonds that define the relationship between fathers and sons. While the backdrop of the 1962 World Series and the legendary rivalry between the Yankees and the Giants provides a thrilling historical anchor, the book’s true power lies in its intimate exploration of a boy forced to grow up too soon. White captures the sensory details of the 1960s with such precision that you can almost smell the fresh cut grass of the diamond and hear the crackle of a transistor radio late at night. The story follows 13-year-old Mikey Wright as he navigates the shattering news of his father’s cancer, turning his grief into a desperate, cross-country mission of hope. Along Route 66, the narrative unfolds as a series of life lessons, proving that the people we encounter in our darkest moments are often the ones who light the way back home. What elevates this novel above a standard coming-of-age story is White’s refusal to lean on easy sentimentality; instead, he explores the "emotional geometry" of family the silent sacrifices, the unsaid words, and the heavy weight of expectations. The "Getaway Day" of the title serves as a beautiful metaphor for the inevitable transitions of life, marking the moment when childhood innocence must be packed away in favor of a deeper, more selfless understanding of love. Mikey’s journey is hindered by human rivals and helped by the whims of Mother Nature, culminating in a climax that feels both cinematic and deeply personal. It is a story that reminds us that while our physical lives are finite, the things we do for others create a legacy that remains immortal. White’s prose is clean and purposeful, mirroring the steady pace of a long summer afternoon at the ballpark where every inning brings a new chance for redemption.
Ultimately, Getaway Day is a soulful meditation on the act of letting go letting go of the past, of our heroes' perceived invincibility, and of the fear of change. It resonates across generations, offering Baby Boomers a vivid mirror of their youth while giving younger readers a profound look at the courage required to face life's "freak storms." By the time the final page is turned, the reader is left with the realization that home isn't just a location in the Central Valley, but a state of being found in the hearts of those we cherish. This is a must-read for anyone who has ever looked at their father and seen both a hero and a man, or anyone who believes that a game of baseball is actually a game about life itself. It is a tender, introspective, and uplifting achievement that lingers in the mind long after the stadium lights have dimmed and the crowd has gone home.

[Evelyn Carter]

Reading Getaway Day feels like leafing through an old family photo album sepia toned, worn at the edges, but alive with memory. Ken White crafts an evocative portrait of boyhood, baseball, and belonging, told through the lens of a man forever shaped by the father who raised him and the game that bound them together. The story begins in 2010, with the Giants’ long-awaited championship. It’s a triumphant moment, but White uses it as a bridge to carry us back to 1962, when the world was shifting underfoot. Through young Mickey’s eyes, we relive that era’s small town rhythms: backyard ballgames, transistor radios, the Kennedy optimism, and the quiet dignity of working-class families making do. The author doesn’t rely on sentimentality; instead, he builds his world out of real textures the hum of an old TV, the smell of fresh cut grass, the pulse of the radio calling a double play. What’s remarkable is how deeply the novel intertwines baseball and life. The game isn’t a backdrop it’s a living philosophy. Through every pitch and swing, White explores the emotional geometry of family: the father who works too hard, the son desperate to be seen, and the generations bound by hope and heartbreak. Baseball becomes a stand in for time itself measured not in minutes, but in moments that refuse to end. There’s a raw tenderness in the way White writes about fathers. The scenes where Mickey’s dad sacrifices quietly rotting his own teeth to pay for the kids’ dental work, working weekends to keep the lights on cut deep. There’s no grand speech, just love disguised as responsibility. And when tragedy strikes or dreams fade, White never pushes too hard. He lets the silence speak. Stylistically, Getaway Day reads like a conversation between memory and reality. The pacing is deliberate, the tone reflective but never maudlin. You feel the heartbeat of Modesto, the ache of time passing, the haunting simplicity of a baseball diamond at dusk. White’s voice lands somewhere between Ray Bradbury’s nostalgia and W.P. Kinsella’s mystical realism (Shoeless Joe comes to mind). Yet it remains entirely his own authentic, tender, and rooted in truth. By the end, as the generations converge father, son, and grandson the reader realizes the book’s real subject isn’t baseball at all. It’s legacy. The kind that lives in stories, in memories, in a game that never ends because someone’s always there to throw the next pitch. Getaway Day isn’t just a sports novel; it’s a meditation on growing up, letting go, and passing it on. It’s for dreamers, sons, fathers, and anyone who’s ever felt the pull of home field.

[Lucas Bennett]

Ken White’s Getaway Day is a love letter to baseball, to family, and to the messy, beautiful contradictions of growing up American. On the surface, it’s a nostalgic coming of age story that follows young Mickey Wright through the early 1960s, a decade when the world was both simpler and on fire with change. But beneath the ballgames and the small town charm, this novel strikes a deeper chord: it’s about fathers and sons, memory and loss, and how time bends around the moments that define us. White opens with a poignant prologue about the eternal push and pull between fathers and sons a thread that runs through the entire novel like a quiet hum. The story moves seamlessly between past and present: between the glory days of Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle, and the modern triumph of the 2010 San Francisco Giants. That parallel between generations Mickey and his father, and later Mickey and his own son gives the book an emotional symmetry that lingers long after the final page. The prose is clean, heartfelt, and cinematic. You can feel the dust of Modesto, California under your shoes, smell the cut grass of a Little League field, and hear the low whistle of the night train passing through town. White has a journalist’s eye for detail and a poet’s instinct for rhythm. He captures that strange magic of mid century America, where optimism met the cold edges of reality: war, work, and the endless grind of expectation. What elevates Getaway Day beyond nostalgia is its honesty. The book doesn’t romanticize the past it remembers it as it was. Fathers worked two jobs, sons wrestled with dreams too big for small towns, and baseball wasn’t just a sport it was a way to understand life itself. The game becomes a metaphor for endurance, imperfection, and faith: no clock, no guarantees, just innings to play until you can’t. By the time the story comes full circle when Mickey stands with his own son in San Francisco’s parade of champions you feel that ache of continuity. The novel ends not with closure, but with inheritance: the passing of stories, the echo of cheers, the hum of an old radio calling another inning into being. Getaway Day is Americana at its finest deeply personal yet universally resonant. If you grew up with baseball in your veins, you’ll recognize your own father in these pages. If you didn’t, you’ll still find a story about love, forgiveness, and finding your way home.

[Peter Adams]

In the 1960s, technology was a scarce commodity, and "Getaway Day" beautifully captures the essence of life in that bygone era. The narrative unfolds, offering a compelling glimpse into a time when simplicity defined daily existence. What makes this book truly captivating is the inclusion of fascinating black and white photos, which add an authentic and nostalgic vibe to the setting. Though unassuming in its presentation, "Getaway Day" is a treasure trove of valuable lessons. Its straightforward storytelling immerses readers in a world where the nuances of life, unencumbered by modern technology, are explored with sincerity. In essence, this unpretentious yet profound book invites readers to appreciate the simplicity of the past while discovering the timeless wisdom it imparts.

'Getaway Day' by Ken White beautifully encapsulates the essence of the Jewish proverb, 'When a father gives to his son, both laugh; when a son gives to his father, both cry.' Mikey Wright, a 13-year-old facing the harsh reality of his father's cancer, embarks on a poignant journey of self-discovery and sacrifice. White skillfully guides readers through Mikey's travels from his hometown to Anaheim, Chicago, and down Route 66, introducing a cast of characters who impart invaluable lessons about fathers and sons, family, and the inevitability of change. Set against the backdrop of a disrupted 1962 World Series, the novel explores the delicate balance of expectations, loneliness, and the transformative power of laughter. 'Getaway Day' is a timeless exploration of the complexities of growing up, filled with heartfelt moments and profound insights.

[Florence B.]

Getaway Day works its magic slowly but once it grabs your attention, it refuses to let go. The emotional core of the book is built on relationships, particularly the complicated pull between what we inherit and what we create for ourselves. There’s a strong sense of personal legacy running through the story, and the author weaves that theme into moments both small and sweeping. What hooked me early was the authenticity of the voices. Nothing feels manufactured. Even the quiet scenes have a sense of weight, like they’re carrying memories that matter. You can tell the author understands that the power of a moment isn’t always about action; sometimes it’s about vulnerability, honesty, or a truth finally spoken out loud. The pacing is thoughtful. It never rushes, but it never drags. It gives the reader room to absorb the emotional stakes. The baseball elements work beautifully as symbolic anchors a reminder of youth, lost opportunities, and the way certain passions follow us across a lifetime. Readers who don’t follow the sport will still appreciate how those details frame the emotional journey. What really impressed me is how the story handles healing. Nothing is magically fixed, and the characters don’t transform overnight. Instead, the book treats growth like a real human process: uneven, difficult, and deeply personal. The last chapters deliver a sense of closure that feels earned, not engineered. This book is tender, introspective, and surprisingly uplifting. A great fit for readers who value character driven stories with emotional grit.

[Clarice]

There’s something incredibly grounding about Getaway Day. It’s the kind of novel that doesn’t rely on flashy twists or dramatic shocks. Instead, it earns its emotional payoff through honesty. The author clearly has a deep appreciation for the passage of time and how memory shapes who we become. By the middle of the book, I found myself reflecting on my own childhood, my family, and the unfinished business we all carry. The story explores the bond between generations in a way that feels authentic and relatable. The narrative keeps threading old experiences into present day decisions, and this interplay makes every chapter feel connected to something bigger. It’s not a book about looking back with sadness it’s about understanding the value of what was left behind. The prose has a steady confidence. Sentences are clean, direct, and purposeful. I appreciated how the emotional beats are understated but powerful. The author trusts the reader to feel the weight without exaggeration. Baseball appears throughout the story as a constant theme, but it’s never overbearing. Instead, it becomes a metaphor for time, second chances, and unfinished dreams. Even without a love for the sport, readers will appreciate its symbolic presence. The closing chapters deliver a gentle but resonant resolution. It doesn’t tie everything into a perfect bow, and that’s what makes it satisfying. Life rarely offers tidy endings, and the book honors that truth while still offering hope. It’s a heartfelt and introspective novel quiet in tone but rich in emotional payoff.

[Samantha Perez]

Ken White's 'Getaway Day' is a literary masterpiece that seamlessly weaves together the threads of a young boy's journey with the author's extensive background in advertising, corporate communications, and interactive entertainment.

The best thing about is its magically creative words that are more than just words in black and white. He bares his heart and soul in crafting this wonderfully crafted book made for teens and young at heart. Reading this book is like watching a movie, he takes us there to that magical moment of place in time in every line and ending as he began. He is totally gifted with words and expressing his thoughts.

White's diverse literary portfolio, including novels, screenplays, and stage plays, adds a layer of depth to the narrative. 'Getaway Day' is not just a story about baseball and life; it's a testament to the power of belief, selflessness, and the enduring bonds of family. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating and emotionally resonant literary experience. Charged with youthfulness and wholesomeness, this book is worth every moment of your time.

[Kyle Baker]

In 'Getaway Day,' Ken White crafts a moving narrative that transcends generational boundaries. Mikey Wright's quest to save his ailing father leads readers on a captivating journey filled with poignant lessons and unexpected twists. White skillfully combines the universal themes of family, friendship, and self-discovery with the nostalgic backdrop of the 1962 World Series. The novel explores the transformative power of compassion and the importance of believing in something greater than oneself. As Mikey faces challenges and encounters a cast of diverse characters, 'Getaway Day' becomes a heartfelt ode to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring magic of baseball.

This emotionally charged story will resonate not only with Baby Boomers but also with young adults and anyone who appreciates the profound impact of adolescence.

[Debra Sanchez]

'Getaway Day' by Ken White is a soul-stirring exploration of the complexities of growing up and the enduring bonds of family. The novel delves into the life of Mikey Wright, a 13-year-old faced with the daunting challenge of saving his father from cancer. White seamlessly intertwines themes of selflessness, belief, and the unpredictable journey of adolescence. As Mikey travels from his hometown to Anaheim, Chicago, and down Route 66, readers are treated to a rich tapestry of encounters that shape his understanding of fathers and sons. Against the backdrop of a storm disrupting the 1962 World Series, 'Getaway Day' becomes a metaphor for life's unpredictable nature.

This touching narrative, filled with laughter, sorrow, and the love of baseball, is a timeless and relatable story for readers of all ages.

[Christine White]

Ken White's 'Getaway Day' resonates with the profound wisdom of the Jewish proverb, 'When a father gives to his son, both laugh; when a son gives to his father, both cry.' This emotionally charged novel follows the journey of Mikey Wright, a 13-year-old facing the harsh reality of his father's battle with cancer. As Mikey travels from his familiar home town to Anaheim, Chicago, and down Route 66, the narrative unfolds into a rich tapestry of life lessons about fathers and sons, family, and the inevitable process of growing up. The novel skillfully navigates the delicate balance between laughter and tears, selflessness, and the transformative power of belief. Against the backdrop of a freak storm disrupting the 1962 World Series, 'Getaway Day' becomes a poignant exploration of the cyclical nature of giving and receiving, making it a timeless and deeply moving read.

[Douglas Flores]

"Ken White's 'Getaway Day' reflects the author's profound connection to his roots in Modesto, California. In this coming-of-age classic, White skillfully intertwines the universal themes of family, self-discovery, and the magic of baseball. The novel, rich with historical references and set against the iconic 1962 World Series, becomes a heartfelt exploration of growing up and fulfilling dreams.

White's background in mass communications and film appreciation, coupled with his intimate knowledge of the Central Valley heartland, adds depth to the narrative. 'Getaway Day' is a poignant reminder that, as the Jewish proverb states, 'When a father gives to his son, both laugh; when a son gives to his father, both cry.' White's storytelling prowess and commitment to his community shine through, making this novel a timeless gem.

[Henry Hill]

Ken White's 'Getaway Day' stands as a testament to the author's multifaceted talents in writing, design, and entertainment production. This charming young adult story transcends genres, offering a delightful blend of charm, adventure, and the enduring magic of baseball. As a retired professional from advertising, corporate communications, and interactive entertainment, White brings a wealth of experience to the narrative. The novel's roots in Modesto, California, where White was born and raised, add authenticity and richness to the storytelling. 'Getaway Day' not only captures the essence of a simpler time but also serves as a bridge between generations, appealing to Baby Boomers, young adults, and all who appreciate the joy and sorrow of adolescence. White's dedication to his home town and the Central Valley heartland echoes throughout this heartwarming and well-crafted tale.

[Walter Hall]

Ken White's 'Getaway Day' is a poignant journey through the heart of a 13-year-old boy, Mikey Wright, as he embarks on a soul-stirring quest to fulfill his father's last wish of playing catch with his idol, Mickey Mantle. Set against the backdrop of 1962, the novel takes readers on a nostalgic road trip from California to Anaheim, Chicago, and down Route 66. White masterfully weaves themes of family, friendship, and self-discovery into the fabric of Mikey's coming-of-age story. The emotional resonance of Mikey's pursuit to play catch with baseball legend Mickey Mantle adds a layer of depth to this captivating tale. 'Getaway Day' is a touching exploration of the transformative power of a single journey.

[Heather Walker]

In 'Getaway Day,' Ken White crafts a mesmerizing coming-of-age narrative that captures the essence of a bygone era. Mikey Wright's odyssey to honor his father's dying wish—playing catch with his idol, Mickey Mantle—unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of 1962 America. White skillfully blends nostalgia and emotion, guiding readers through Mikey's cross-country expedition to connect with baseball icon Mickey Mantle. The author paints a vivid portrait of the transformative power of travel, seamlessly blending the physical and emotional landscapes. 'Getaway Day' not only explores the universal themes of family and self-discovery but also serves as a heartfelt ode to the magic of baseball and the timeless allure of the open road.

[Carolyn Clark]

Ken White's 'Getaway Day' is a heartfelt tribute to the transformative nature of a young boy's journey.

Set in 1962, this coming-of-age novel follows 13-year-old Mikey Wright on a cross-country quest to fulfill his father's dying wish of playing catch with his idol, Mickey Mantle. As Mikey traverses from California to Anaheim, Chicago, and down Route 66, readers are treated to a nostalgic exploration of America's past. White beautifully captures the spirit of the time, blending themes of family, friendship, and the magic of baseball. 'Getaway Day' is a compelling narrative that resonates with the universal themes of self-discovery and the enduring bonds that shape us. A poignant and captivating read.

[Rachel Harris]

In Ken White's 'Getaway Day,' the poignant quote 'What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others is, and remains, immortal' sets the tone for a powerful exploration of selflessness, family, and the indomitable spirit of a 13-year-old boy named Mikey Wright. Faced with the harsh reality of his father's cancer, Mikey embarks on a heartfelt journey, traveling from his hometown to Anaheim, Chicago, and down Route 66. The novel beautifully weaves together ordinary and extraordinary encounters, illustrating the profound lessons Mikey learns about fathers and sons, growing up, and the true meaning of home. Against the backdrop of a storm that postpones the 1962 World Series, 'Getaway Day' becomes a compelling tale of resilience, belief, and the timeless allure of baseball.

[Ethan Nelson]

Delving into the poignant depths of familial love, Ken White's 'Getaway Day' artfully intertwines the Jewish proverb, 'When a father gives to his son, both laugh; when a son gives to his father, both cry,' with the touching narrative of Mikey Wright's journey. Faced with his father's cancer diagnosis. White weaves a compelling tale of ordinary and extraordinary encounters that shape Mikey's understanding of fathers, sons, and the inevitability of change. Against the backdrop of a disrupted 1962 World Series due to a Bay Area storm, 'Getaway Day' explores the profound impact of giving and the bittersweet nature of familial bonds. This novel is a heartfelt exploration of selflessness, belief, and the inherent beauty of growing up.

[Catherine Lewis]

Ken White's 'Getaway Day' earns its place as a coming-of-age classic, seamlessly blending the timeless allure of baseball with the intricate tapestry of life's lessons. It rightly deems it heartless to not find the book charming, placing it within the esteemed American genre of Baseball as Metaphor for the Meaning of Life. White's masterful storytelling captures the essence of a simpler time, as witnessed in the iconic 1962 World Series. The novel's charm, historical references, and the bittersweet relationship between a dying father and his son make it a truly enjoyable read for readers of all ages. 'Getaway Day' is more than just a young adult story; it's a rich and moving exploration of growing up, fulfilling dreams, and the enduring magic of baseball.

[Zachary Green]

Charm, adventure, and the timeless magic of baseball converge in Ken White's 'Getaway Day,' a charming young adult story that transcends its genre. I aptly praises its charm without veering into maudlin territory, highlighting the well-crafted narrative that captivates readers of all ages. The heart of the story, centered around baseball, secures 'Getaway Day' a place in the National Baseball Hall of Fame library in Cooperstown, New York. Lori Gilbert of Stockton Record emphasizes the novel's appeal to a broad audience, from Baby Boomers to young adults, and anyone who cherishes the poignant memories of adolescence. 'Getaway Day' is a delightful blend of adventure and nostalgia, making it a standout in the realm of young adult literature

[Jessica Miller]

Getaway Day took me completely by surprise. I expected a baseball story, and I got that but what I didn’t expect was a deeply emotional coming of age tale that hit me right in the gut. Mikey Wright’s journey to help his sick father isn’t just about illness or sports; it’s about family, growing up, and the painful beauty of learning when to hold on and when to let go. The baseball backdrop gives the book a nostalgic warmth, but it’s Mikey’s emotional growth that drives everything. The writing is vivid without being pretentious, the pacing feels organic, and the ending lingers long after you close the last page. It’s the kind of story that makes you call your dad afterward just to say hi.

[Lena G.]

This book captures something rare: the complicated love between fathers and sons. Mikey’s quest to save his dad might seem impossible, but it mirrors what so many of us feel when someone we love is slipping away we’d do anything, go anywhere, to change the outcome. The baseball setting adds an undercurrent of hope, teamwork, and resilience. By the time the 1962 World Series rolls around, you feel like you’re right there in the stands, praying for a miracle. It’s powerful without ever being melodramatic. Anyone who’s ever had to grow up too soon will see themselves in Mikey.

[James I.]

I picked up Getaway Day because I’m a lifelong baseball fanatic. What I didn’t expect was to cry twice. The details about the Yankees and Giants, the Route 66 journey, and the cultural backdrop of 1962 all felt authentic. But the emotional story is what carried me. It’s not a book about baseball; it’s a book that uses baseball as a metaphor for life losses, wins, and the moments between. There’s also a nice message about the power of kindness and community. Mikey’s encounters along the way remind us that every stranger can become a teacher.

[Katherine Thompson]

In 'Getaway Day,' Ken White delivers an unforgettable tale that transcends the boundaries of baseball and life. I rightly acknowledge its heartwarming charm and place it within the revered genre. The novel's appeal extends beyond its Young Adult classification, standing out as a well-written gem in the genre. 'Getaway Day' is a touching and sweet exploration of family, selflessness, and the power of belief, making it a must-read for those seeking a truly memorable literary experience.