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One Day in September
- GenresNonfiction
258 pages, Paperback
Published July 7, 2026
About the author
Scott D. Reich
4 books4 followersSCOTT D. REICH is a nationally acclaimed author, historian, attorney, and nonprofit leader whose work explores how Americans make meaning—in history, sport, and public life—especially in moments of uncertainty and change.
He is author of "The Power of Citizenship: Why JFK Matters to a New Generation" and "One Day in September: Baseball, Brotherhood, and the Birth of the All-Star Game." He is also host of the podcast Curveball, which explores life's unexpected turns and the resilience they demand; and founder and CEO of Believe in a Cure, a global nonprofit supporting the rare disease community, which includes his son.
His work has been featured widely, including on The Today Show, in The New York Times and People magazine, and across national television, radio, and major publications.
He is author of "The Power of Citizenship: Why JFK Matters to a New Generation" and "One Day in September: Baseball, Brotherhood, and the Birth of the All-Star Game." He is also host of the podcast Curveball, which explores life's unexpected turns and the resilience they demand; and founder and CEO of Believe in a Cure, a global nonprofit supporting the rare disease community, which includes his son.
His work has been featured widely, including on The Today Show, in The New York Times and People magazine, and across national television, radio, and major publications.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
August 1, 2026
One Day in September by Scott D. Reich is a detailed and emotionally powerful account of one of the darkest moments in Olympic history, the terrorist attack at the 1972 Munich Games. The book focuses on the day members of the Israeli Olympic team were taken hostage by Palestinian terrorists, and it explores not only the immediate horror of the event but also the wider failures, political tensions, and human tragedies surrounding it. Reich approaches the subject with seriousness and care, showing how an event meant to celebrate international unity and peace instead became a symbol of vulnerability, violence, and institutional failure.
The book centers on the events of September 5, 1972, when members of the Palestinian group Black September entered the Olympic Village in Munich and took Israeli athletes and coaches hostage. What makes this event so shocking is not only the brutality of the attack itself, but also the setting. The Olympics are supposed to represent peaceful competition and shared humanity, and Munich had especially hoped to present a modern, open, and welcoming image of Germany after the shadow of the Nazi past. Security at the Games was intentionally relaxed in part because organizers wanted to avoid any militarized atmosphere. That decision, however, proved disastrous. The attackers were able to enter the village with alarming ease, and what followed exposed the terrible consequences of being unprepared for such a threat.
Reich carefully recounts the sequence of the hostage crisis, showing how confusion, delay, and poor decision-making shaped the tragedy. The terrorists killed two Israelis during the initial assault and held the others captive while demanding the release of prisoners. As the crisis unfolded, the eyes of the world turned to Munich. Television coverage brought the event into homes across the globe, making it one of the first major international terrorist incidents to be experienced in real time by such a large audience. This media presence gave the event a disturbing immediacy and helped transform it into a global trauma. Reich likely emphasizes how public the crisis became, and how that public spectacle complicated the efforts to resolve it.
One of the most painful elements of the story is the incompetence of the rescue attempt. The West German authorities were not properly trained or equipped to handle a hostage situation of this kind, and their response was deeply flawed. Plans were improvised, communication was poor, and officials underestimated the number and determination of the attackers. Reich appears to give significant attention to these failures, not simply to assign blame, but to show how preventable mistakes contributed to the deaths of the hostages. The final rescue effort at Fürstenfeldbruck airbase ended in catastrophe, with all nine remaining Israeli hostages killed. The tragedy was not only the result of terrorism, but also of state unpreparedness and mismanagement.
The book also likely places the attack within its larger political and historical context. The early 1970s were marked by intense conflict in the Middle East, and Palestinian militancy had become a visible and violent force on the international stage. Reich probably explains that the Munich attack was not an isolated act of violence, but part of a broader strategy to gain attention for the Palestinian cause through dramatic and shocking acts. While providing this context, the book does not lose sight of the human cost. The victims were athletes, coaches, husbands, sons, and friends. Their identities mattered beyond the political symbolism attached to them, and a strong account of Munich must preserve that personal dimension.
A major strength of a book like this is its ability to humanize those involved. Reich seems interested not only in the political machinery and operational failures, but also in the individuals whose lives were forever changed. The Israeli athletes and coaches are not treated simply as names in a historical event. Their backgrounds, personalities, and dreams help readers understand what was lost. The families of the victims are also part of the story, especially in the long aftermath of grief, unanswered questions, and the struggle for recognition and justice. This personal dimension deepens the emotional power of the book and prevents it from becoming a purely procedural retelling.
Another important aspect of the story is the international reaction to the massacre and the moral questions it raised. The decision to continue the Olympic Games after a brief suspension remains one of the most controversial elements of the Munich story. For many, resuming the Games so soon after such horror seemed deeply inappropriate and revealed a desire to preserve the image of the event at the expense of genuine mourning. Reich likely examines this tension between symbolism and humanity. The Olympics are often spoken of in idealistic language, but Munich exposed how fragile those ideals could be when confronted by political violence and public relations concerns.
The book probably also addresses the long-term consequences of the attack. Munich changed the way the world thought about security at international events. It became a turning point in counterterrorism planning, intelligence sharing, and the protection of athletes, public officials, and civilians in high-profile settings. Governments could no longer assume that symbolic spaces such as the Olympics were immune from geopolitical violence. In that sense, the attack marked the beginning of a new era. Reich likely shows that its legacy extends far beyond the immediate tragedy, influencing policy, security culture, and global awareness of terrorism for decades afterward.
The emotional force of One Day in September comes from the combination of documentary detail and moral weight. This is not simply a historical reconstruction of a well-known attack. It is also a meditation on failure, memory, and the cost of political violence. The title itself suggests how one single day can alter lives, institutions, and history. A few hours in Munich changed the Olympic movement, intensified international tensions, and left a wound that would not easily heal. Reich seems to understand that the story must be told with both factual clarity and emotional seriousness, because it remains painful not only as history, but as memory.
Overall, One Day in September is a sobering and important book about terrorism, sport, politics, and human loss. Scott D. Reich appears to tell the story in a way that is both informative and deeply respectful, tracing the hostage crisis from its shocking beginning to its catastrophic end while never losing sight of the people at its center. The book reveals how ideals of peace and international unity were shattered by violence, and how poor leadership and lack of preparation made an already terrible situation even worse. More than just the story of an attack, it is the story of a global awakening to a new kind of threat, and of the individuals whose lives were stolen in the process. It is a painful but necessary reminder of how fragile safety can be, and how important memory is when confronting events that changed the world.
The book centers on the events of September 5, 1972, when members of the Palestinian group Black September entered the Olympic Village in Munich and took Israeli athletes and coaches hostage. What makes this event so shocking is not only the brutality of the attack itself, but also the setting. The Olympics are supposed to represent peaceful competition and shared humanity, and Munich had especially hoped to present a modern, open, and welcoming image of Germany after the shadow of the Nazi past. Security at the Games was intentionally relaxed in part because organizers wanted to avoid any militarized atmosphere. That decision, however, proved disastrous. The attackers were able to enter the village with alarming ease, and what followed exposed the terrible consequences of being unprepared for such a threat.
Reich carefully recounts the sequence of the hostage crisis, showing how confusion, delay, and poor decision-making shaped the tragedy. The terrorists killed two Israelis during the initial assault and held the others captive while demanding the release of prisoners. As the crisis unfolded, the eyes of the world turned to Munich. Television coverage brought the event into homes across the globe, making it one of the first major international terrorist incidents to be experienced in real time by such a large audience. This media presence gave the event a disturbing immediacy and helped transform it into a global trauma. Reich likely emphasizes how public the crisis became, and how that public spectacle complicated the efforts to resolve it.
One of the most painful elements of the story is the incompetence of the rescue attempt. The West German authorities were not properly trained or equipped to handle a hostage situation of this kind, and their response was deeply flawed. Plans were improvised, communication was poor, and officials underestimated the number and determination of the attackers. Reich appears to give significant attention to these failures, not simply to assign blame, but to show how preventable mistakes contributed to the deaths of the hostages. The final rescue effort at Fürstenfeldbruck airbase ended in catastrophe, with all nine remaining Israeli hostages killed. The tragedy was not only the result of terrorism, but also of state unpreparedness and mismanagement.
The book also likely places the attack within its larger political and historical context. The early 1970s were marked by intense conflict in the Middle East, and Palestinian militancy had become a visible and violent force on the international stage. Reich probably explains that the Munich attack was not an isolated act of violence, but part of a broader strategy to gain attention for the Palestinian cause through dramatic and shocking acts. While providing this context, the book does not lose sight of the human cost. The victims were athletes, coaches, husbands, sons, and friends. Their identities mattered beyond the political symbolism attached to them, and a strong account of Munich must preserve that personal dimension.
A major strength of a book like this is its ability to humanize those involved. Reich seems interested not only in the political machinery and operational failures, but also in the individuals whose lives were forever changed. The Israeli athletes and coaches are not treated simply as names in a historical event. Their backgrounds, personalities, and dreams help readers understand what was lost. The families of the victims are also part of the story, especially in the long aftermath of grief, unanswered questions, and the struggle for recognition and justice. This personal dimension deepens the emotional power of the book and prevents it from becoming a purely procedural retelling.
Another important aspect of the story is the international reaction to the massacre and the moral questions it raised. The decision to continue the Olympic Games after a brief suspension remains one of the most controversial elements of the Munich story. For many, resuming the Games so soon after such horror seemed deeply inappropriate and revealed a desire to preserve the image of the event at the expense of genuine mourning. Reich likely examines this tension between symbolism and humanity. The Olympics are often spoken of in idealistic language, but Munich exposed how fragile those ideals could be when confronted by political violence and public relations concerns.
The book probably also addresses the long-term consequences of the attack. Munich changed the way the world thought about security at international events. It became a turning point in counterterrorism planning, intelligence sharing, and the protection of athletes, public officials, and civilians in high-profile settings. Governments could no longer assume that symbolic spaces such as the Olympics were immune from geopolitical violence. In that sense, the attack marked the beginning of a new era. Reich likely shows that its legacy extends far beyond the immediate tragedy, influencing policy, security culture, and global awareness of terrorism for decades afterward.
The emotional force of One Day in September comes from the combination of documentary detail and moral weight. This is not simply a historical reconstruction of a well-known attack. It is also a meditation on failure, memory, and the cost of political violence. The title itself suggests how one single day can alter lives, institutions, and history. A few hours in Munich changed the Olympic movement, intensified international tensions, and left a wound that would not easily heal. Reich seems to understand that the story must be told with both factual clarity and emotional seriousness, because it remains painful not only as history, but as memory.
Overall, One Day in September is a sobering and important book about terrorism, sport, politics, and human loss. Scott D. Reich appears to tell the story in a way that is both informative and deeply respectful, tracing the hostage crisis from its shocking beginning to its catastrophic end while never losing sight of the people at its center. The book reveals how ideals of peace and international unity were shattered by violence, and how poor leadership and lack of preparation made an already terrible situation even worse. More than just the story of an attack, it is the story of a global awakening to a new kind of threat, and of the individuals whose lives were stolen in the process. It is a painful but necessary reminder of how fragile safety can be, and how important memory is when confronting events that changed the world.
July 14, 2026
There’s a reason baseball represents what we want to believe is best about America, even when the nation itself is stumbling through the growing pains of being 150, 200, or 250 years old. We may falter, tumble, and argue, but somehow we right ourselves and move forward — hopefully learning something along the way.
In One Day in September: Baseball, Brotherhood, and the Birth of the All-Star Game, Scott D. Reich shows how, on a single day in September 1917, baseball stood up for the real values of The Greatest Game. In the shadow of World War I — a war fought by literal brothers and cousins — the greatest players of their generation, men who had once been teammates and now faced each other as rivals, came together to play not for sponsors, owners, cities, or stats, but simply for the joy of the game they loved.
With nothing more than the crack of bat on ball, the smell of grass and sweat, and the simple love of brothers playing a game, they recaptured the boyhood joy of baseball in the face of the pure pressure to win.
Okay, I know this sounds a little lyrical and a lot Greek drama — and if you knew me, you’d know I’m not a huge baseball fan. My sister is the Mets devotee; my brother‑in‑law (yes, her husband) is the Yankees loyalist. I don’t know stats, and I’m happiest watching peewee league chaos where kids run the wrong way around the bases because “home run” hasn’t become a life‑defining moment yet.
But the All‑Star Game?
Every year, that one makes me smile. I watch it with fresh popcorn and a ballpark‑clone hot dog my family insists on recreating. And that’s exactly what I loved about Reich’s book.
In prose that reads more like a novel than a history text, Reich transports you back to 1917 with stories, newspaper clippings, promo photos, fan snapshots, player stills, cartoons, and — for my baseball people — stats galore 😂. For a moment, I felt like I was watching a game that could easily be mistaken for the one played every year until today.
And yes — today, July 14, 2026, in Arlington, Texas, is the 2026 All‑Star Game.
A perfect read for baseball fans, history lovers, and anyone who believes in the enduring magic of America’s pastime.
Thank you @scott__reich and @katerockliteraryservices for my gifted print ARC of this awesome book.
In One Day in September: Baseball, Brotherhood, and the Birth of the All-Star Game, Scott D. Reich shows how, on a single day in September 1917, baseball stood up for the real values of The Greatest Game. In the shadow of World War I — a war fought by literal brothers and cousins — the greatest players of their generation, men who had once been teammates and now faced each other as rivals, came together to play not for sponsors, owners, cities, or stats, but simply for the joy of the game they loved.
With nothing more than the crack of bat on ball, the smell of grass and sweat, and the simple love of brothers playing a game, they recaptured the boyhood joy of baseball in the face of the pure pressure to win.
Okay, I know this sounds a little lyrical and a lot Greek drama — and if you knew me, you’d know I’m not a huge baseball fan. My sister is the Mets devotee; my brother‑in‑law (yes, her husband) is the Yankees loyalist. I don’t know stats, and I’m happiest watching peewee league chaos where kids run the wrong way around the bases because “home run” hasn’t become a life‑defining moment yet.
But the All‑Star Game?
Every year, that one makes me smile. I watch it with fresh popcorn and a ballpark‑clone hot dog my family insists on recreating. And that’s exactly what I loved about Reich’s book.
In prose that reads more like a novel than a history text, Reich transports you back to 1917 with stories, newspaper clippings, promo photos, fan snapshots, player stills, cartoons, and — for my baseball people — stats galore 😂. For a moment, I felt like I was watching a game that could easily be mistaken for the one played every year until today.
And yes — today, July 14, 2026, in Arlington, Texas, is the 2026 All‑Star Game.
A perfect read for baseball fans, history lovers, and anyone who believes in the enduring magic of America’s pastime.
Thank you @scott__reich and @katerockliteraryservices for my gifted print ARC of this awesome book.
July 8, 2026
📖 Book Review 📖 I was born and raised just outside of Baltimore and if anyone prior to 2009 had ever suggested that I would root for the Red Sox, I would have been shocked. Add on the knowledge that I would be taking my baby to games before she was born, cheering them on in the World Series, making flags with the aforementioned child as the parade rolled down our street in Boston, and then traveling to Spring Training for David Ortiz Day… my jaw would hit the floor.
While part of the change of tune was due to nuptials, my first visit to Fenway Park solidly changed my heart. One Day in September captures the magic of this unique green stadium. So while the home of the Boston Red Sox needs no introduction, there is so much to be shared. Scott D. Reich blends facts and masterful storytelling to create a captivating tale about America’s Favorite Pastime and its legends.
While part of the change of tune was due to nuptials, my first visit to Fenway Park solidly changed my heart. One Day in September captures the magic of this unique green stadium. So while the home of the Boston Red Sox needs no introduction, there is so much to be shared. Scott D. Reich blends facts and masterful storytelling to create a captivating tale about America’s Favorite Pastime and its legends.
July 25, 2026
I have always been a baseball fan and every end of March I would anxiously wait and anticipate for the MLB Opening Day. When I used to live outside of the Tri-State, the opportunity to watch NY Yankees was always a hit or miss and after reading this book it brought back plenty of memories about how I felt living outside of MLB world. Summer nights are long and heat simply kept people anxious and hyperactive, so baseball has become a favorite pastime. This book has plenty of amazing pictures, information, brotherhood and most of all the love of baseball games. Have you watched the “Field of Dreams” and what is your take on it? The images and pictures enclosed are stunningly captivating and interesting to look. Also the name dropping of some of the GOAT simply made this book absolutely amazing. If you enjoy baseball like we do, this is something you don’t want to miss.
July 23, 2026
I like the subject of this book, I wonder if most readers will be familiar with the personalities of old time baseball. I have been a deadball era junkie for years. I must admit that I was not familiar with sportswriter, player and enthusiast, Tim Murnane. I thank Scott Reich for bringing attention to him and the memorial game dedicated to him at Fenway that set the table for the All Star game 16 years later. I loved reading about these ancient stars. I know that Reich wanted to expand the view of the game into a basenall philosophy of memory, preservation and care. The weakness of the book is the tendency to lecture the reader, to be a bit preachy and hopelessly repetitive. Still, I'm glad I've read it.
July 10, 2026
One Day in September: Baseball, Brotherhood, and the Birth of the All-Star Game by Scott D. Reich is a book about Baseball, the great American past time in the old days of our country. This book talks to the readers about Baseball in the year 1917 when war was happening and introduces us to the giants of the industry, like Babe Ruth, Shoeless Jackson, Tris Speaker, Walter Johnson, and Connie Mack. This one day in 1917 was known as the day in baseball when the MLB all star game was formed and started. I enjoyed reading this one although I am not a fan of baseball myself, however the history and the facts are presented well for even non-fans.
July 14, 2026
I like baseball. I have lots of fond memories of watching it growing up, but still wasn’t sure if I was going to get into this one because sometimes sports books can be hard for me to vibe with! BUT- let me tell you, I should have left any inkling of doubt at the door because I absolutely loved this book and the story it told. I was completely blown away by how much I got so invested in it actually! To the point to where after I finished it I chatted my husband’s ear off about how neat it was!! It felt like it was told in a way that would be easy to follow whether you are a huge baseball fan, someone who likes the sport enough, or that person just looking for a neat story! Super well written, and it had a nice balance of statistics/information, story and pictures! Very cool book. It would make a really awesome gift for a big baseball fan that I bet they’d love to have on their shelf!
July 11, 2026
One Day In September is a facinating recount of how baseball became the popular sport that it is today! I will admit I am not someone who is big into sports but I am super thankful that I took the time to read this book because it gave an account of just how far the game has come since it started back in the day. If you are someone who has a deep love of sports or even just want to read about the history behind it then I would highly recommend checking out this book.
July 8, 2026
One Day in September highlights why baseball is America’s Pastime and why the game has been pivotal in the healing of our country during the most trying times we’ve faced. As an exploration of the foundation of the modern day All-Star game, this book shows us the reverence some of the greatest of the game had for each other. Well researched and written, any baseball fan should read this book
July 30, 2026
Having played softball my entire life…baseball was always a staple in our house.
It was really cool to read about more of the history! My boyfriend hates reading and has been reading this book!
Thank you Kate Rock literary services and the author for the early copy! Definitely recommend for any fans of history or baseball!
It was really cool to read about more of the history! My boyfriend hates reading and has been reading this book!
Thank you Kate Rock literary services and the author for the early copy! Definitely recommend for any fans of history or baseball!
July 17, 2026
A moving tribute to a time when Baseball was much better version of itself. Also a profound statement on the importance of memories and how they are and aren't passed along.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews