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Magic Bat Day
Magic Bat is the first real practice after they get their uniforms. Batting is the most fun of all skills and drills! This book concept shows techniques of how to hold the bat and where to stand. Most importantly, it shows that every kid can find their own magic bat.
34 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 29, 2015
1 person want to read
About the author
Kevin Christofora
40 books27 followersBIO- January 2018
April 2018- Release of Amira Can Catch, the 4th in a series of bedtime/anytime reading books for kids ages 3-7 who's parents aspire to give their kids #MoreGreen, Less Screen. Alleviating the fears to start something new, educational and the find out all their friends are there too!
Ask the author for a review copy of Amira, post a review and get a copy of the first 3 books for your library or classroom. First 25 participants will be accepted.
Kevin Christofora, a father and certified coach, hopes his book series, The Hometown All Stars, will inspire children to play outside more often. He teaches young people about baseball and the habits of a healthy lifestyle in the form of a fun and educational bedtime story. He gives regular commentary on ESPN and also interviews around the country with stations such as NPR, 660 News, 89.7 fm. WGLS Rowan Radio, 101.5 fm KVSF fm. The Voice of SanteFe, MIX97.7 fm New York with Mark Bolger and other US radio stations. He also writes about strengthening family time with activities through his personal blog, and in publications across the country including; Fit Pro, Westchester Family, KidzEdge, Boston Parenting, Mom Blog Society, Green Baby Guide, CaliDiet Healthy Living Magazine and several other publications.
MISSION STATEMENT
Most parents today know very little about baseball. Unlike previous generations, they don't have a lot to pass on to their children, and most kids today know more about Angry Birds than they do about America's National Pastime. It’s a different world, and today’s kids have lost touch with the game. Kids don’t play outside much, and the sandlot’s turned into a parking lot. Baseball’s getting lost. The Hometown All Stars Book series, written for children ages 3-6, is on a mission to spread the idea of “Less Screen, More Green” and increase the interest in baseball with today’s younger generations, while building character, teamwork skills and re-enforcing many of life’s important lessons – including the most important one – TO HAVE FUN!
WHY CHOOSE THE HOMETOWN ALL STARS BOOKS?
As a coach, I see kids showing up at their first practice not knowing what home plate is. They don’t even know which direction to run! The Hometown All Stars series helps children learn beginning sports skills with real life coaching techniques, combined with an educational and FUN storyline. The books encourage kids to get out of the house and get moving, giving them (and their parents) the tools to do so with confidence. Besides the obvious benefits of physical activity, The Hometown All Stars series includes important concepts like sportsmanship, leadership, playing by the rules, motivation, winning and losing, teamwork, strategy and more, helping to re-enforce many important life lessons. Give your children a head start on the field and off with The Hometown All Stars. It all starts with a bedtime story!
April 2018- Release of Amira Can Catch, the 4th in a series of bedtime/anytime reading books for kids ages 3-7 who's parents aspire to give their kids #MoreGreen, Less Screen. Alleviating the fears to start something new, educational and the find out all their friends are there too!
Ask the author for a review copy of Amira, post a review and get a copy of the first 3 books for your library or classroom. First 25 participants will be accepted.
Kevin Christofora, a father and certified coach, hopes his book series, The Hometown All Stars, will inspire children to play outside more often. He teaches young people about baseball and the habits of a healthy lifestyle in the form of a fun and educational bedtime story. He gives regular commentary on ESPN and also interviews around the country with stations such as NPR, 660 News, 89.7 fm. WGLS Rowan Radio, 101.5 fm KVSF fm. The Voice of SanteFe, MIX97.7 fm New York with Mark Bolger and other US radio stations. He also writes about strengthening family time with activities through his personal blog, and in publications across the country including; Fit Pro, Westchester Family, KidzEdge, Boston Parenting, Mom Blog Society, Green Baby Guide, CaliDiet Healthy Living Magazine and several other publications.
MISSION STATEMENT
Most parents today know very little about baseball. Unlike previous generations, they don't have a lot to pass on to their children, and most kids today know more about Angry Birds than they do about America's National Pastime. It’s a different world, and today’s kids have lost touch with the game. Kids don’t play outside much, and the sandlot’s turned into a parking lot. Baseball’s getting lost. The Hometown All Stars Book series, written for children ages 3-6, is on a mission to spread the idea of “Less Screen, More Green” and increase the interest in baseball with today’s younger generations, while building character, teamwork skills and re-enforcing many of life’s important lessons – including the most important one – TO HAVE FUN!
WHY CHOOSE THE HOMETOWN ALL STARS BOOKS?
As a coach, I see kids showing up at their first practice not knowing what home plate is. They don’t even know which direction to run! The Hometown All Stars series helps children learn beginning sports skills with real life coaching techniques, combined with an educational and FUN storyline. The books encourage kids to get out of the house and get moving, giving them (and their parents) the tools to do so with confidence. Besides the obvious benefits of physical activity, The Hometown All Stars series includes important concepts like sportsmanship, leadership, playing by the rules, motivation, winning and losing, teamwork, strategy and more, helping to re-enforce many important life lessons. Give your children a head start on the field and off with The Hometown All Stars. It all starts with a bedtime story!
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
November 12, 2015
Next in The Hometown All Stars series, Magic Bat Day focuses on Nick's second day of baseball practice. Excited to promote team spirit, Nick and his teammates get to wear their baseball uniforms to school. His enthusiasm spills over into every activity at school as Nick anticipates practice and wonders what new things he'll be learning. And learn he does as coach introduces Nick and his team to the proper techniques to batting.
The Christofora-Tangeman team hit another home run in Nick's adventures with baseball. Young readers and parents who are familiar with Nick's Very First Day of Baseball—the first book in the series—will also be familiar with the fun-filled format of that follows in Christofora's first person narrative. Including Billy Ball's facts and questions, there is also a hidden-picture page abounding in baseballs, a trivia page, an autograph page, and a short list of new words learned. Once again Tangeman's artistic and playful images create magic to Christofora's baseball-laden text. Most notable scenes are a stunning Babe Ruth baseball card and hilarious two-page portrayal of Nick's batting concentration.
As envisioned for his innovative interactive series, Christofora's mantra of 'less screen, more green' speaks loudly to how "he wants to bring back the joy of being outdoors and playing, that kids in recent years have lost" and his firm belief that children learn valuable lessons, such as teamwork, discipline, strategy, and thinking before they act—just from playing the game. Geared specifically for the three to seven age range, there is much more in store for fans of The Hometown All Stars. Stay tuned!
Anita Lock
Freelance Book Reviewer
The Christofora-Tangeman team hit another home run in Nick's adventures with baseball. Young readers and parents who are familiar with Nick's Very First Day of Baseball—the first book in the series—will also be familiar with the fun-filled format of that follows in Christofora's first person narrative. Including Billy Ball's facts and questions, there is also a hidden-picture page abounding in baseballs, a trivia page, an autograph page, and a short list of new words learned. Once again Tangeman's artistic and playful images create magic to Christofora's baseball-laden text. Most notable scenes are a stunning Babe Ruth baseball card and hilarious two-page portrayal of Nick's batting concentration.
As envisioned for his innovative interactive series, Christofora's mantra of 'less screen, more green' speaks loudly to how "he wants to bring back the joy of being outdoors and playing, that kids in recent years have lost" and his firm belief that children learn valuable lessons, such as teamwork, discipline, strategy, and thinking before they act—just from playing the game. Geared specifically for the three to seven age range, there is much more in store for fans of The Hometown All Stars. Stay tuned!
Anita Lock
Freelance Book Reviewer
November 19, 2015
It's the second day of practice and the players were allowed to wear their uniforms to school. They were all so proud of their uniforms. This time at practice, they exercise and they learn how to hit the ball. They also get to see some baseball cards the coach has. These children are thrilled with baseball and their coach.
I love this series already. It get kids involved and moving. This book shows children how much fun it can be to be part of a team. It really is a fantastic book. Mr. Christofora took a very basic approach to teaching baseball and I applaud him for it. I can't wait to see what comes next from this series. Your child should have them in their library.
I didn't find any issues.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it really gets children up and moving. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~
I love this series already. It get kids involved and moving. This book shows children how much fun it can be to be part of a team. It really is a fantastic book. Mr. Christofora took a very basic approach to teaching baseball and I applaud him for it. I can't wait to see what comes next from this series. Your child should have them in their library.
I didn't find any issues.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it really gets children up and moving. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~
February 24, 2016
Author: Kevin Christofora
Illustrator: Dale Tangeman
ISBN: 978-0-9863493-1-7
Once again the team of author Kevin Christofora and illustrator Dale Tangeman have combined their wonderful talents crafting their second book in the Hometown All Stars series, Magic Bat Day which concentrates on learning the fundamentals of baseball batting.
The picture book kicks off with lively carton photos of the principal characters including the principal one, Nick.
Nick is all keyed up in taking part in his second day of baseball practice as he rises early and dresses himself. He can hardly wait to show off his new uniform to his classmates.
His mother can't believe the change that has transpired with Nick and tells him he is acting like a big boy! A cartoon baseball image appears on the top left hand corner of page 3 where we read that Nick's coach has informed him and his teammates that they will all wear their uniforms to school to promote team spirit.
At school Nick dreams about playing baseball and when he lunches on hots dogs and apple pie, he is reminded at being at the baseball park.
Once school is out Nick races to the magical baseball field with its perfectly mowed lawn and white lines, similar to what he had seen on television when watching the pros play ball.
While the team is assembling on the field, the coach blows his whistle and informs them that the order of the day will be learning the correct way to hit the ball. He also holds up a baseball card of one of the greatest hitters of all time, Babe Ruth, after which he tells the players that they will find their own magic bat, learn how to hit the ball, and perhaps one day will be just like the Babe.
At the conclusion of the warm ups, the team is split into two groups and Nick goes to the dugout to pick up a bat that feels good. The players follow the coach to the practice area and while walking with him, they are told that hitting and batting are similar words and everyone can be a hitter and batter.
Circles are created with spray paint, where Nick's teammates are told to place their feet as it keeps their bodies facing the correct direction. Every player is assigned their own hitting station and each receives a helmet, batting tee, and a bucket of balls.
After putting his helmet on, Nick grabs his bat, places his feet in the circle and is now ready to receive his first batting lesson. He is told to make two fists with his hands and line is knuckles in a straight row, after which the coach pulls out a black marker and draws a black line on his hands, so he won't forget. The fundamentals of batting are clearly explained in a few steps including putting the bat on your shoulder, relaxing, raising the bat up to get ready to hit, and finally taking a swing.
Disappointingly, Nick misses his first attempt. A different ball is then placed on the batting tee with a black dot. The coach also adjusts Nick's elbow telling him that when he swings, he is to stare at the black dot, and then slam it. Lo and behold to his amazement, Nick's bat connects with the ball making the coolest sound.
Praising Nick, the coach asks him to do it again. This is followed by the entire team hitting dozens of balls. After blowing his whistle to end the practice, the coach asks if everyone had fun, did they find their magic bats, did anyone hit the ball really far and what was their favorite part of the day. Everyone's parents help out by picking up the equipment and returning it to the shed so that the coach can devote his full attention the the kids.
What stands out in this picture book is the realization by Christofora that kids are easily bored when confronted by jargon and technicalities. Consequently, he stays away from confusing explanations and complexities while presenting in bit-sized chunks a simple step-by-step process in teaching batting and hitting to kids. The book also serves as an excellent compliment and reinforcement of the skills kids would receive when actually taking part in live baseball practices.
Christofora is well matched with Tangeman whose illustrations effectively reflect the tone of the story and the lessons taught.
This instructive book has the added benefit of inviting us to join in the practices and remember when we too were small learning how to hit a ball.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
Follow Here http://goo.gl/bv6d3z
To Read Norm's Interview With Kevin Christofora
Illustrator: Dale Tangeman
ISBN: 978-0-9863493-1-7
Once again the team of author Kevin Christofora and illustrator Dale Tangeman have combined their wonderful talents crafting their second book in the Hometown All Stars series, Magic Bat Day which concentrates on learning the fundamentals of baseball batting.
The picture book kicks off with lively carton photos of the principal characters including the principal one, Nick.
Nick is all keyed up in taking part in his second day of baseball practice as he rises early and dresses himself. He can hardly wait to show off his new uniform to his classmates.
His mother can't believe the change that has transpired with Nick and tells him he is acting like a big boy! A cartoon baseball image appears on the top left hand corner of page 3 where we read that Nick's coach has informed him and his teammates that they will all wear their uniforms to school to promote team spirit.
At school Nick dreams about playing baseball and when he lunches on hots dogs and apple pie, he is reminded at being at the baseball park.
Once school is out Nick races to the magical baseball field with its perfectly mowed lawn and white lines, similar to what he had seen on television when watching the pros play ball.
While the team is assembling on the field, the coach blows his whistle and informs them that the order of the day will be learning the correct way to hit the ball. He also holds up a baseball card of one of the greatest hitters of all time, Babe Ruth, after which he tells the players that they will find their own magic bat, learn how to hit the ball, and perhaps one day will be just like the Babe.
At the conclusion of the warm ups, the team is split into two groups and Nick goes to the dugout to pick up a bat that feels good. The players follow the coach to the practice area and while walking with him, they are told that hitting and batting are similar words and everyone can be a hitter and batter.
Circles are created with spray paint, where Nick's teammates are told to place their feet as it keeps their bodies facing the correct direction. Every player is assigned their own hitting station and each receives a helmet, batting tee, and a bucket of balls.
After putting his helmet on, Nick grabs his bat, places his feet in the circle and is now ready to receive his first batting lesson. He is told to make two fists with his hands and line is knuckles in a straight row, after which the coach pulls out a black marker and draws a black line on his hands, so he won't forget. The fundamentals of batting are clearly explained in a few steps including putting the bat on your shoulder, relaxing, raising the bat up to get ready to hit, and finally taking a swing.
Disappointingly, Nick misses his first attempt. A different ball is then placed on the batting tee with a black dot. The coach also adjusts Nick's elbow telling him that when he swings, he is to stare at the black dot, and then slam it. Lo and behold to his amazement, Nick's bat connects with the ball making the coolest sound.
Praising Nick, the coach asks him to do it again. This is followed by the entire team hitting dozens of balls. After blowing his whistle to end the practice, the coach asks if everyone had fun, did they find their magic bats, did anyone hit the ball really far and what was their favorite part of the day. Everyone's parents help out by picking up the equipment and returning it to the shed so that the coach can devote his full attention the the kids.
What stands out in this picture book is the realization by Christofora that kids are easily bored when confronted by jargon and technicalities. Consequently, he stays away from confusing explanations and complexities while presenting in bit-sized chunks a simple step-by-step process in teaching batting and hitting to kids. The book also serves as an excellent compliment and reinforcement of the skills kids would receive when actually taking part in live baseball practices.
Christofora is well matched with Tangeman whose illustrations effectively reflect the tone of the story and the lessons taught.
This instructive book has the added benefit of inviting us to join in the practices and remember when we too were small learning how to hit a ball.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
Follow Here http://goo.gl/bv6d3z
To Read Norm's Interview With Kevin Christofora
October 11, 2015
I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/13640585
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/13640585
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews