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The Batter's Box
In 1946, a returning World War II veteran is determined to reclaim his place among professional baseball’s upper echelon and win back the woman he once fell for. Two months into the new season, at the top of his game, he abandons his team, casting aside his fame and riches and vanishing forever from the public eye. What drives a man to walk away from everything he cherishes, never to be heard from again?
THE BATTER’S BOX follows the path of Will Jamison, a star player with the Washington Senators who enlists in the U.S. Army following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. When the war ends, Jamison returns to Washington, a decorated hero tormented by deep emotional scars. Burdened with a crushing guilt and harrowing memories he cannot escape, Jamison’s life is consumed by an explosive temper, sleepless nights, and a gradual descent into alcoholism. He must also navigate public misconceptions about mental illness in the 1940s, and stigmas that often silenced those who suffered and drove veterans like Jamison into dark corners. Will he continue, alone with his anguish and misery? Or will he level with those around him, including the woman he loves, and seek the professional care he desperately needs, even at the risk of exposing his most closely guarded secrets?
THE BATTER’S BOX follows the path of Will Jamison, a star player with the Washington Senators who enlists in the U.S. Army following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. When the war ends, Jamison returns to Washington, a decorated hero tormented by deep emotional scars. Burdened with a crushing guilt and harrowing memories he cannot escape, Jamison’s life is consumed by an explosive temper, sleepless nights, and a gradual descent into alcoholism. He must also navigate public misconceptions about mental illness in the 1940s, and stigmas that often silenced those who suffered and drove veterans like Jamison into dark corners. Will he continue, alone with his anguish and misery? Or will he level with those around him, including the woman he loves, and seek the professional care he desperately needs, even at the risk of exposing his most closely guarded secrets?
324 pages, Paperback
Published March 12, 2019
23 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Andy Kutler
5 books205 followersAndy Kutler is a writer and author living in Arlington, Virginia. A native of Madison, Wisconsin, Andy has served in the United States Senate, the United States Secret Service, and the national security community.
Andy's newest book, THE FIGHT OF THEIR LIVES: A 21ST CENTURY PRIMER ON WORLD WAR II (Black Rose Writing) is a concise but comprehensive account of the most consequential era in world history. His past works include HONORABLE PROFESSION (Black Rose), a compelling, hopeful story of a cynical former Secret Service agent and his idealistic daughter as they follow a longshot candidate into the perilous arena of presidential politics; THE BATTER'S BOX (Warriors Publishing Group), a Gold Medal winner from the Military Writers Society of America, is the story of a professional baseball player who volunteers during World War II, experiences the horrors of combat, and tries to later resume his playing career; and THE OTHER SIDE OF LIFE (Archway Publishing) was awarded a Bronze Medal for Military & Wartime Fiction in the 2016 Independent Publishers Book Awards, and an Honorable Mention for War & Military Fiction in the 2016 Foreword Reviews INDIEFAB Awards.
Andy enjoys reading, traveling, following his Milwaukee Brewers from afar, and immersing himself in history, especially anything related to WWII.
Andy's newest book, THE FIGHT OF THEIR LIVES: A 21ST CENTURY PRIMER ON WORLD WAR II (Black Rose Writing) is a concise but comprehensive account of the most consequential era in world history. His past works include HONORABLE PROFESSION (Black Rose), a compelling, hopeful story of a cynical former Secret Service agent and his idealistic daughter as they follow a longshot candidate into the perilous arena of presidential politics; THE BATTER'S BOX (Warriors Publishing Group), a Gold Medal winner from the Military Writers Society of America, is the story of a professional baseball player who volunteers during World War II, experiences the horrors of combat, and tries to later resume his playing career; and THE OTHER SIDE OF LIFE (Archway Publishing) was awarded a Bronze Medal for Military & Wartime Fiction in the 2016 Independent Publishers Book Awards, and an Honorable Mention for War & Military Fiction in the 2016 Foreword Reviews INDIEFAB Awards.
Andy enjoys reading, traveling, following his Milwaukee Brewers from afar, and immersing himself in history, especially anything related to WWII.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 29, 2024
"The Batter's Box" is a fantastic book. It’s a powerful tale of ambition, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of America's favorite pastime—baseball.
Great writing! Using vivid imagery and authentic dialogue, the author skillfully transports readers into the world of the sport, immersing them in its triumphs and tribulations.
The characters are well-developed and relatable, each facing their own personal struggles on and off the field.
With its suspenseful plot and unexpected twists, "The Batter's Box" keeps readers engaged until the final inning. Overall, it's a compelling read that will appeal to both avid fans of baseball and lovers of contemporary fiction.
Finally, the author is a creative storyteller and has put together a book that is easy to read & hard to put down. I loved it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Great writing! Using vivid imagery and authentic dialogue, the author skillfully transports readers into the world of the sport, immersing them in its triumphs and tribulations.
The characters are well-developed and relatable, each facing their own personal struggles on and off the field.
With its suspenseful plot and unexpected twists, "The Batter's Box" keeps readers engaged until the final inning. Overall, it's a compelling read that will appeal to both avid fans of baseball and lovers of contemporary fiction.
Finally, the author is a creative storyteller and has put together a book that is easy to read & hard to put down. I loved it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 8, 2019
This book was received from the Author, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own
http://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com
Andy Kutler’s THE BATTER’S BOX, is a unforgettable novel about a star baseball athlete, as he transition from All-Star baseball player to a soldier serving in the Us military. To a struggling veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, trying to adapt to to civilian life. A story of hopes hopes and dreams, sacrifice, and ultimately love.
In Andy Kutler new novel, we meet the man protagonist, Will Jamison. A baseball player during the time that our men and women had put their dreams and aspirations aside, and serve our country.
Through Jamison fictional narrative voice, you are taken from our countries national pastime, to front and center in his harrowing experience in the Second World War. The authors detailed descriptions of both pro baseball and the Battle of the Bulge, kept me on the edge of my seat in fast moving storyline. The pace was brisk and vividly rendered, along with rich descriptive details with period details. The main characters voice and the depth of his challenges will give an insight to struggles of a soldiers struggle long after the war is over.
The authors captures the human soul in this moving and compelling book.
Kutler, provides us a glimpse of all that suffer through the aftermath of surviving combat, to returning home emotionally torn.
I loved the overall premise of the novel, and the quick pace kept me engaged.
What immediately grabbed my attention in this story was the complexity of the characters. All characters were raw, honest, and flawed.
Andy Kutler, masterly provides the reader with an introspective view of how war changes those involved forever, and how their struggles continues for the veterans long after the war is over. Jamison is changed forever, he struggles through the emotional damages brought on by the lingering effects of the war. He finds love along the way, and most overcome his own demons and find redemption while putting back together his life.
The Batter’s Box is a heartbreaking, heartwarming hopeful story that explores love, loss, hardship, sacrifice and the relationships that bond people together.
A powerful memorable novel absorbing novel, this is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time.
http://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com
Andy Kutler’s THE BATTER’S BOX, is a unforgettable novel about a star baseball athlete, as he transition from All-Star baseball player to a soldier serving in the Us military. To a struggling veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, trying to adapt to to civilian life. A story of hopes hopes and dreams, sacrifice, and ultimately love.
In Andy Kutler new novel, we meet the man protagonist, Will Jamison. A baseball player during the time that our men and women had put their dreams and aspirations aside, and serve our country.
Through Jamison fictional narrative voice, you are taken from our countries national pastime, to front and center in his harrowing experience in the Second World War. The authors detailed descriptions of both pro baseball and the Battle of the Bulge, kept me on the edge of my seat in fast moving storyline. The pace was brisk and vividly rendered, along with rich descriptive details with period details. The main characters voice and the depth of his challenges will give an insight to struggles of a soldiers struggle long after the war is over.
The authors captures the human soul in this moving and compelling book.
Kutler, provides us a glimpse of all that suffer through the aftermath of surviving combat, to returning home emotionally torn.
I loved the overall premise of the novel, and the quick pace kept me engaged.
What immediately grabbed my attention in this story was the complexity of the characters. All characters were raw, honest, and flawed.
Andy Kutler, masterly provides the reader with an introspective view of how war changes those involved forever, and how their struggles continues for the veterans long after the war is over. Jamison is changed forever, he struggles through the emotional damages brought on by the lingering effects of the war. He finds love along the way, and most overcome his own demons and find redemption while putting back together his life.
The Batter’s Box is a heartbreaking, heartwarming hopeful story that explores love, loss, hardship, sacrifice and the relationships that bond people together.
A powerful memorable novel absorbing novel, this is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time.
November 21, 2020
Do you like baseball? Are you a fan of military fiction? If so, this might be a book to consider reading. Author Andy Kutler takes readers back to 1946 where Will Jamison, a former professional baseball player, is determined to earn his position back after being called away to serve in World War II. However, once he starts his new career, he quickly abandons it and is never seen again. Readers will soon learn why Jamison has decided to quit something he proclaimed to love and discover the hidden secrets of his life, many of which were brought on by the war.
At 325 pages, this book will take some time to read. However, it’s filled with plenty of interesting information and has a captivating writing style. You’ll also learn a bit about 1940s culture and politics and how it shaped this decade. Because of this, it’s perfect for both sports lovers and history fans.
At 325 pages, this book will take some time to read. However, it’s filled with plenty of interesting information and has a captivating writing style. You’ll also learn a bit about 1940s culture and politics and how it shaped this decade. Because of this, it’s perfect for both sports lovers and history fans.
January 16, 2020
Decisions, choices, alternatives – and survival
Wisconsin native author Andy Kutler earned his degrees from Michigan State University and Georgetown University and gains his insights for this novel from his experiences as an historian, a senior policy officer with the US Secret Service, his political work on the legislative staff of two US Senators, a consultant in the national security community, and his love of baseball. In addition to his two published novels, he has written for The Huffington Post and The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He lives in Arlington, Virginia.
The immediacy of this reflective history novel is so well presented in the opening chapter – a conversation between the main character’s wife Kay and a reporter Mr. Maloney - as Andy slowly opens the door for the fine story he weaves: ‘Maloney leaned forward. “the man [Will Jamison] had it all before the war. An all-star, on top of his game, with money, fame, women. He enlists in the Army after Pearl Harbor. He doesn’t wait until 1943 or 1944 like most other major players. He signs up in January of 11942, a month before Congress declares war. He asks for front-line duty. Wins a Silver Star during Battle of the Bulge. Comes home, and plays well enough to be an all-star again, then just walks away. Never to be heard from again. And he was only twenty-eight years old…I just want to know what makes a man like your husband walk away from everything. And everyone.” “Not everyone,” Kay said.’
And from that suspense-filled opening the novel transports us to June 1942 as Will enters Philadelphia and enlists in the Army and we gradually learn about this man. As the summary states, ‘Will Jamison is a star player with the Washington Senators and enlists in the U.S. Army following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. When the war ends, Jamison returns to Washington, a decorated hero tormented by deep emotional scars. Burdened with a crushing guilt and harrowing memories he cannot escape, Jamison's life is consumed by an explosive temper, sleepless nights, and a gradual descent into alcoholism. Will he continue, alone with his anguish and misery? Or will he level with those around him, including the woman he loves, and seek the professional care he desperately needs, even at the risk of exposing his most closely guarded secrets?’
Each character in this excellent novel is so well sculpted that they become visual, capturing our empathy and compassion. The atmosphere is realistic as though painted by a service veteran, and the spectrum of war as scoped through a comparison of the Civil War and World War II brings new insights about the fever and action and consequences of war – not only creating a fascinating survey, but also a contemporary manner of focusing on the world condition as we are living it now. Powerful, exceptionally well written, this is a unique ‘time travel’ tale that invites the reader to consider ‘choices.’ Very highly recommended.
Wisconsin native author Andy Kutler earned his degrees from Michigan State University and Georgetown University and gains his insights for this novel from his experiences as an historian, a senior policy officer with the US Secret Service, his political work on the legislative staff of two US Senators, a consultant in the national security community, and his love of baseball. In addition to his two published novels, he has written for The Huffington Post and The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He lives in Arlington, Virginia.
The immediacy of this reflective history novel is so well presented in the opening chapter – a conversation between the main character’s wife Kay and a reporter Mr. Maloney - as Andy slowly opens the door for the fine story he weaves: ‘Maloney leaned forward. “the man [Will Jamison] had it all before the war. An all-star, on top of his game, with money, fame, women. He enlists in the Army after Pearl Harbor. He doesn’t wait until 1943 or 1944 like most other major players. He signs up in January of 11942, a month before Congress declares war. He asks for front-line duty. Wins a Silver Star during Battle of the Bulge. Comes home, and plays well enough to be an all-star again, then just walks away. Never to be heard from again. And he was only twenty-eight years old…I just want to know what makes a man like your husband walk away from everything. And everyone.” “Not everyone,” Kay said.’
And from that suspense-filled opening the novel transports us to June 1942 as Will enters Philadelphia and enlists in the Army and we gradually learn about this man. As the summary states, ‘Will Jamison is a star player with the Washington Senators and enlists in the U.S. Army following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. When the war ends, Jamison returns to Washington, a decorated hero tormented by deep emotional scars. Burdened with a crushing guilt and harrowing memories he cannot escape, Jamison's life is consumed by an explosive temper, sleepless nights, and a gradual descent into alcoholism. Will he continue, alone with his anguish and misery? Or will he level with those around him, including the woman he loves, and seek the professional care he desperately needs, even at the risk of exposing his most closely guarded secrets?’
Each character in this excellent novel is so well sculpted that they become visual, capturing our empathy and compassion. The atmosphere is realistic as though painted by a service veteran, and the spectrum of war as scoped through a comparison of the Civil War and World War II brings new insights about the fever and action and consequences of war – not only creating a fascinating survey, but also a contemporary manner of focusing on the world condition as we are living it now. Powerful, exceptionally well written, this is a unique ‘time travel’ tale that invites the reader to consider ‘choices.’ Very highly recommended.
April 1, 2024
One might not be able to find a more perfect read for me. The Batter's Box by Andy Kutler fed a passion of mine since childhood -- baseball and baseball history. As an adult, because of my father's involvement in WWII, along with my husband's father's and uncle's involvement, much of our reading, trips to Europe, and discussions have been about WWII. If either or both of these are your interest as well, you will want to read this book.
Having been to the Ardennes and Bastogne where my husband's uncle fought in the Battle of the Bulge, I could envision Will's location and and the horror of what the men faced. It made the story very real and a much more emotional read. I have often thought about the professional baseball players and actors who left to fight in WWII and this gave me a fictional (yet seemingly truthful) view of what it might have been for some.
The characters were multi-faceted and deep. The writing was superb and the depth of story that Mr. Kutler crafted around baseball and WWII was stellar. The unexpected events and storylines added to my need to binge-read. I will not give away any of the story because the readers need to start with a clean slate as I did. In his acknowledgements, Mr. Kutler wrote, "with every ounce of energy and emotion I poured into this story, my fingers were cross that I was honoring those men rightly, and doing justice to their experiences that were often far different than what has been portrayed in so much of our literature and popular films. They deserve no less." You succeeded, sir. Your energy and emotion were clearly evident. Well done!
This complementary advance reader copy of The Batter's Box was provided by the author and BookSirens for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review but this well-researched, well-written book required my praise.
Having been to the Ardennes and Bastogne where my husband's uncle fought in the Battle of the Bulge, I could envision Will's location and and the horror of what the men faced. It made the story very real and a much more emotional read. I have often thought about the professional baseball players and actors who left to fight in WWII and this gave me a fictional (yet seemingly truthful) view of what it might have been for some.
The characters were multi-faceted and deep. The writing was superb and the depth of story that Mr. Kutler crafted around baseball and WWII was stellar. The unexpected events and storylines added to my need to binge-read. I will not give away any of the story because the readers need to start with a clean slate as I did. In his acknowledgements, Mr. Kutler wrote, "with every ounce of energy and emotion I poured into this story, my fingers were cross that I was honoring those men rightly, and doing justice to their experiences that were often far different than what has been portrayed in so much of our literature and popular films. They deserve no less." You succeeded, sir. Your energy and emotion were clearly evident. Well done!
This complementary advance reader copy of The Batter's Box was provided by the author and BookSirens for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review but this well-researched, well-written book required my praise.
January 19, 2020
Power of Love
The Batter's Box: A Novel of Baseball, War and Love by Andy Kutler is a wonderfully composed fictional, although more reality than fiction, story about the beauty and harshness and interruptions of life that detour the pursuit and realization of those things that we love and dream of.
Will Jamison, a rising star baseball player, has a good shot to distinguish himself as a major-league player with the Washington Senators. However, the decade is the 1940's and World War II derails his major-league ambitions as he soon finds himself on a battlefield rather than a baseball field.
Eventually, all things end with the exception of those nightmare experiences that continue to haunt the days and nights. For Will, there is no exception as the wartime memories and regrets continue on and wreak havoc with not only his current life but the life that he wants to make with the woman that he loves.
The Batter's Box: A Novel of Baseball, War and Love by Andy Kutler is a compelling read. It is well-written and portrays not only the horrors of war but the long-lasting effects of those experiences that do not abide by hollow truces.
As with all good novels, this writing is no exception as it provides a number of unique moments and twists and turns that culminate in a very, very satisfying read and ending.
I daresay the reading of this book will resonate with most readers; even though the backdrop involves the nightmare of warfare and the pursuit of a career in baseball, it is, above all, a love story.
It is an engaging story of the love of dreams, a love of life and a love of that special person in one's life.
The Batter's Box: A Novel of Baseball, War and Love by Andy Kutler is a wonderfully composed fictional, although more reality than fiction, story about the beauty and harshness and interruptions of life that detour the pursuit and realization of those things that we love and dream of.
Will Jamison, a rising star baseball player, has a good shot to distinguish himself as a major-league player with the Washington Senators. However, the decade is the 1940's and World War II derails his major-league ambitions as he soon finds himself on a battlefield rather than a baseball field.
Eventually, all things end with the exception of those nightmare experiences that continue to haunt the days and nights. For Will, there is no exception as the wartime memories and regrets continue on and wreak havoc with not only his current life but the life that he wants to make with the woman that he loves.
The Batter's Box: A Novel of Baseball, War and Love by Andy Kutler is a compelling read. It is well-written and portrays not only the horrors of war but the long-lasting effects of those experiences that do not abide by hollow truces.
As with all good novels, this writing is no exception as it provides a number of unique moments and twists and turns that culminate in a very, very satisfying read and ending.
I daresay the reading of this book will resonate with most readers; even though the backdrop involves the nightmare of warfare and the pursuit of a career in baseball, it is, above all, a love story.
It is an engaging story of the love of dreams, a love of life and a love of that special person in one's life.
October 24, 2019
My Thoughts:
I love reading stories about World War II. I love baseball. Reading a book that has both topics is a rarity, and this is just one reason this book is a gem!
The Batter’s Box is two time periods. The story begins in 2005 with a woman named Kay who is interviewed for a story about the 1945 baseball team, the Washington Senators. The team is now called the Nationals. Kay shares more than the information needed for the article. Kay shares about Will Jamison, a star player.
It is common in a fiction book to read dual time periods. This has become taxing for me. However, Kay is reminiscing. And, the story does not go back and forth with each chapter. I’m glad the more current time period is located at the beginning and the ending.
My dad was a veteran of World War II. He too had combat stress. Help for veterans suffering from combat stress or PTSD was not available. My son David is also a veteran. He suffers from PTSD. Help for him was immediate. I’m glad Andy Kutler has written this story. It helps readers understand what a veteran endures on the battlefield and afterwards.
For me, one of the best parts of a storyline with romantic partners is their dialogue. Does their dialogue show a chemistry between them or is the romance only physical? The Batter’s Box shows the chemistry in the romance from the start. They have chemistry in their words, mannerisms and physical expression.
Source: I received a complimentary copy, but was not required to leave a positive review.
I love reading stories about World War II. I love baseball. Reading a book that has both topics is a rarity, and this is just one reason this book is a gem!
The Batter’s Box is two time periods. The story begins in 2005 with a woman named Kay who is interviewed for a story about the 1945 baseball team, the Washington Senators. The team is now called the Nationals. Kay shares more than the information needed for the article. Kay shares about Will Jamison, a star player.
It is common in a fiction book to read dual time periods. This has become taxing for me. However, Kay is reminiscing. And, the story does not go back and forth with each chapter. I’m glad the more current time period is located at the beginning and the ending.
My dad was a veteran of World War II. He too had combat stress. Help for veterans suffering from combat stress or PTSD was not available. My son David is also a veteran. He suffers from PTSD. Help for him was immediate. I’m glad Andy Kutler has written this story. It helps readers understand what a veteran endures on the battlefield and afterwards.
For me, one of the best parts of a storyline with romantic partners is their dialogue. Does their dialogue show a chemistry between them or is the romance only physical? The Batter’s Box shows the chemistry in the romance from the start. They have chemistry in their words, mannerisms and physical expression.
Source: I received a complimentary copy, but was not required to leave a positive review.
April 28, 2019
I started Andy’s book Saturday morning intrigued by the premise of combat vet and experience from patriotism and desire to prove himself to experience of combat to integration back home. My dad is a combat vet and I hoped to understand what he went through. How Mr Cutler put together a protagonist like Will Jamison who has so many reasons to stay home and out of harms way, but equally raised to test himself as a soldier believing that this was a bar to prove himself by— at least I saw it that way, because of his own father. What Will saw, felt and heard through battle completely makes you forget where you are and puts you beside Will. His homecoming— his joylessness at the heroism that others perceived in him. His confusion by his haunting trauma and the lack of resources for him were so true to what these individuals found coming home, was another piece of the truth. I remember my own dad who could not say what he lived with but what he clearly carried inside of him. I remember the rule he imposed, never come up behind me I do not want to hurt you and the time I was so little and jumped on his back in play and his immediate and brutal reaction. And his shame afterwards. One of many rages and shames I knew as his child. This book helped me see things in a new way and I hope you find your way to The Batters Box. Highly recommend.
October 17, 2019
Famous baseball player Will Jamison feels he owes his country more than a good ball game. He decides to enlist in the war, and off across the Atlantic he goes. Everyone who could, tried to talk him out of it, but nothing would make him change his mind. Things are not going too bad, until he is in the midst of the Battle of Bugle. It is one of the worst battles of war. The author writes very in depth of this battle and everything that Will is seeing, feeling and dealing with during this time. Once he is back, no one understands the struggle to get back into the swing of normal. His spot is still open for him the on the team, but it is not the same. PTSD then hits Will during an event during a game and he decides he needs to take care of himself first and foremost. He ends up living a quiet hidden life, until a reporter just can't let go decades later. This reporter chases down every lead he can, until he does get the reward of the true story of why Will walked off the field in the middle of a game to never return or be heard from again. Thank you to HFVBT and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
November 9, 2020
It is a must read that combines history, love and drama. After winning a Silver Star during the Battle of the Bulge, Will Jamison returns to his hometown to be a baseball star once again. Yet, being looked up as a professional and as a hero, the 28- year- old veteran just backs off leaving his fans completely stunned. The emotional scars and the horrific and traumatic memories take over his life.
Although the plot and the characters are fictional, the feeling of depression and of the terrible emotional toll that veterans have to deal with is a harsh reality. As it is the case of the protagonist of this story, these invisible scars affect your decisions, your love life and stays with you for the rest of your life. Will Jamison is just one example of the veterans that fought for their country and returned, not knowing that their lives and the ones surrounding them had changed forever.
The author, Andy Kutler, has successfully created a compelling touching story that is definitely worth reading. It is fast moving and I think this book is perfect for people of all ages as it is quite engaging and entertaining.
Although the plot and the characters are fictional, the feeling of depression and of the terrible emotional toll that veterans have to deal with is a harsh reality. As it is the case of the protagonist of this story, these invisible scars affect your decisions, your love life and stays with you for the rest of your life. Will Jamison is just one example of the veterans that fought for their country and returned, not knowing that their lives and the ones surrounding them had changed forever.
The author, Andy Kutler, has successfully created a compelling touching story that is definitely worth reading. It is fast moving and I think this book is perfect for people of all ages as it is quite engaging and entertaining.
December 23, 2023
Andy Kutler hits a home run with this simple but affecting tale of a major league baseball player who enlists after Pearl Harbor and ultimately finds himself besieged in the Battle of the Bulge in the bitter winter of 1944.
Kutler excels in his description of the wartime hell that hero Will Jamison undergoes as part of the 10th Armored Division pinned down in southern Belgium in December 1944 as the Germans mount a last major offensive against American troops. That's the most effective and chilling part of a book that also includes Jamison's intermittent love affair with Kay Barlow, the unhappy wife of a New York Yankee whom Jamison loves but faces emotional blocks in communicating that to her.
The affair with Barlow sometimes descends into melodrama and cliche. But Kutler is on firmer ground when dramatizing Jamison's wartime trauma and his subsequent PTSD on return to civilian life and baseball. The ending also offers a satisfying twist to this book that overall is much better than I expected after randomly picking it off a library shelf.
It becomes a fitting tribute to the WW II generation.
Kutler excels in his description of the wartime hell that hero Will Jamison undergoes as part of the 10th Armored Division pinned down in southern Belgium in December 1944 as the Germans mount a last major offensive against American troops. That's the most effective and chilling part of a book that also includes Jamison's intermittent love affair with Kay Barlow, the unhappy wife of a New York Yankee whom Jamison loves but faces emotional blocks in communicating that to her.
The affair with Barlow sometimes descends into melodrama and cliche. But Kutler is on firmer ground when dramatizing Jamison's wartime trauma and his subsequent PTSD on return to civilian life and baseball. The ending also offers a satisfying twist to this book that overall is much better than I expected after randomly picking it off a library shelf.
It becomes a fitting tribute to the WW II generation.
October 24, 2019
"Everyone is writing a book these days. Some say my husband's story might make an interesting tale." Trust me on this- it does. First of all you don't need to be a baseball fan to appreciate The Batter's Box, a basic familiarity with the game will suffice (although if you do know your stuff, you're in for a treat). The scenes and the characters are beautifully described and led the reader effortlessly into the novel. The author bookends the novel- beginning and ending the story with the same scene, albeit with a twist that'll put a smile on your face at the end. In between, Kutler takes the reader from the seemingly innocent hazy days of pre-WWII, through the chaotic armoured infantry fighting during the Battle of the Bulge, and then back to the baseball fields of post WWII. The battle scenes run true, as do both the turbulent and tender moments between the lead characters. The Batter's Box is hard to put down, so be prepared to lose some sleep, but a cracking good read will reward you.
November 12, 2020
The Batter’s Box is an amazing novel! The author of this work, Andy Kutler, wrote a lovely story combining topics such as love, history and sport making this book a piece of art which I couldn’t put down!
This story is set in the year 1946 and the plot focuses on Will Jamison, a World War II veteran. He returns from war, gets back his position in the baseball team and he also wins back the love of the woman he once fell for. But not everything goes well and although he is a decorated hero, he is tormented by deep emotional scars, guilts and terrible memories, which take him to a gradual descent into alcoholism. Now, he has to fight another war, a war against his own thoughts and secrets!
Personally, I’m a fan of this type of historical novels and I really enjoyed how the author takes you back to that time. The vocabulary used is authentic and the dialogues are so real that the author created a gripping and exciting story full of unexpected outcomes.
All in all, I think this book is well worth reading! I highly recommend it!
November 14, 2020
I am almost sure we have all asked
this question in our lives: Am I taking the right decision? This book actually deals with this type of existencial questions, but through a story which may very well be true since it could be the case some veterans.
Will Jamison, the main character here, has been a successful basketball player who, at some point in his life, decides to leave that passion, as well as his beloved one, aside in order to serve his country in the WWII. Now, he is a retired man
and would like to get everything he has lost back. I will not spoil whether he would do so or not, but I can definitely tell readers that they will get hooked by this story from minute zero.
The Batter’s Box has been magnificently crafted with floreous vocabulary items and written in an easy-to-follow style.
The author has put his perfect writing skill at play and the result is this captivating fictional tale with realistic ingredientes, perfect to be enjoyed by any type of reader. Worth the read!
this question in our lives: Am I taking the right decision? This book actually deals with this type of existencial questions, but through a story which may very well be true since it could be the case some veterans.
Will Jamison, the main character here, has been a successful basketball player who, at some point in his life, decides to leave that passion, as well as his beloved one, aside in order to serve his country in the WWII. Now, he is a retired man
and would like to get everything he has lost back. I will not spoil whether he would do so or not, but I can definitely tell readers that they will get hooked by this story from minute zero.
The Batter’s Box has been magnificently crafted with floreous vocabulary items and written in an easy-to-follow style.
The author has put his perfect writing skill at play and the result is this captivating fictional tale with realistic ingredientes, perfect to be enjoyed by any type of reader. Worth the read!
November 14, 2020
This book had A LOT going on in it. It's a story about love, war, trauma, rivalry, sports, and life. The story itself wasn't overwhelming because it had so many elements though. For me, it was a very psychological novel in that it really focuses on dealing with a lot of the issues associated with war and relationships. There is a lot of jargon used in the novel that was a little too much for me, such as batting averages. I really liked the historical settings which varied from the segregated landscape of Washington DC and history of Foggy Bottom (where I used to work) in the WWII era to the horror of Will losing his fellow soldiers in combat. There are all sorts of emotional waves that just smacked you in the face as a reader just as you thought your feet were back on the sand. It was a real page turner. My only gripe was that there seemed to be unnecessary details throughout that didn't really add to the story for me. Would definitely recommend this for anyone who enjoys war fiction.
November 22, 2020
The Batter's Box tells the story of Will Jameson, a baseball player who joins the military right after Pearl Harbor. It is a fictional story set in real events. There are several aspects of this novel that set it apart from others I have read. Now, this is not my first military and war romance but I did enjoy the sweet combination of mystery, sports, and love. The way the author describes all characters and situations is pretty compelling.
I found myself devouring this book and wanting more. It's that feeling that you desperately want to know what comes next and then what comes after that! I must say that the story captivated me from the get-go. The fact that the story begins with the essence of what is going on it the entire story really helped to get me hooked. I always love a nice love story and this one is warming, comforting, and very well told.
Then there is the social aspect of the novel where the author discusses social topics about the consequences of war. A highly recommended read that I am sure will become a page-turner for you too.
I found myself devouring this book and wanting more. It's that feeling that you desperately want to know what comes next and then what comes after that! I must say that the story captivated me from the get-go. The fact that the story begins with the essence of what is going on it the entire story really helped to get me hooked. I always love a nice love story and this one is warming, comforting, and very well told.
Then there is the social aspect of the novel where the author discusses social topics about the consequences of war. A highly recommended read that I am sure will become a page-turner for you too.
November 11, 2020
Americans, wars and baseball
The Butter’s Box is, to me, a must read for all North America citizens. This is because this book describes America’s hot issues: baseball, war, and love.
Anyone in the USA that has been in a war, or knows someone that has, can understand this story’s deep themes. War changes you, it changes anyone. Why would a baseball celebrity be an exception?
Find out about the ups and downs of most Americans’ life by reading this historical fiction story.
This novel is told in about 350 pages. It contains detailed descriptions about the places our main character, called Will Jamison, visits, about the people he meets in this unusual life and about the lessons he learns.
The writer of this novel is Andy Kutler. It seems to me that the author knows what he is talking about, as if he has also lived a war and its traumatic effects in first person.
I recommend this book to adults because it can be a little bit harsh for teenagers.
The Butter’s Box is, to me, a must read for all North America citizens. This is because this book describes America’s hot issues: baseball, war, and love.
Anyone in the USA that has been in a war, or knows someone that has, can understand this story’s deep themes. War changes you, it changes anyone. Why would a baseball celebrity be an exception?
Find out about the ups and downs of most Americans’ life by reading this historical fiction story.
This novel is told in about 350 pages. It contains detailed descriptions about the places our main character, called Will Jamison, visits, about the people he meets in this unusual life and about the lessons he learns.
The writer of this novel is Andy Kutler. It seems to me that the author knows what he is talking about, as if he has also lived a war and its traumatic effects in first person.
I recommend this book to adults because it can be a little bit harsh for teenagers.
November 12, 2020
Andy Kutler, an awarded author, gifts readers with this captivating historical fiction novel, where the worlds of baseball and war are intertwined in the life of Will Jamison, but mostly, in his internal struggles and scars. He was a star player with the Washington Senators who enlisted in the U.S. Army in World War II. When the war ended and Jamison returned to Washington, he played back well enough to be an all-star again, but then he just walked away.
“The Batter's Box: A Novel of Baseball, War, and Love” is the moving story of a decorated war hero tormented by deep wounds. This is an emotional novel but also a historical perspective on the heroism price. The author has done a brilliant job in both a smooth pace of the story and an accurate approach of war veterans' journey. I particularly enjoyed the perspective the author had while writing about this post-traumatic stress disorder. I strongly recommend this book to all kind of readers.
“The Batter's Box: A Novel of Baseball, War, and Love” is the moving story of a decorated war hero tormented by deep wounds. This is an emotional novel but also a historical perspective on the heroism price. The author has done a brilliant job in both a smooth pace of the story and an accurate approach of war veterans' journey. I particularly enjoyed the perspective the author had while writing about this post-traumatic stress disorder. I strongly recommend this book to all kind of readers.
November 12, 2020
A thought- provoking reading
This is a remarkable story and riveting novel. After reading it, it made me think about the importance of life and of talking about our problems to get better. “The Batter´s Box: a novel of Baseball, War and, Love” was written by Andy Kutler who has penned in a simple and interesting way what the main character has passed through.
This is the story about a man named Will Jamison. Being a star player has some advantages but at the same time some disadvantages. In this non-fiction piece of writing Will´s life is a clear example of that. Resilience, love and fighting are some important themes.
All in all, I would say: “What a story!” I was glued to the pages the moment I opened it. With a well-developed and genuine plot, I dare say that it was worth reading. It is well-developed and it has genuine information that made the reading more absorbing. I thoroughly recommend it to avid readers.
November 13, 2020
Love, war and baseball!
I have grown up loving baseball; I have always been keen on military history and a good love story. Author Andy Kutler created an outstanding book that captured my attention and heart. The Batter's Box took me on an emotional journey as I flipped each page. Each character was deeply detailed and created a connection between the reader and author. The reader will feel connected to the characters not so much by their strengths, but more importantly, by their flaws.
Throughout the book the characters hardships and battles can bring out the best or the worst of anyone and this is one true example. An outstanding story line, a wonderful writing style, and a well developed emotional connection to the story itself will leave any reader wanting more from Andy Kutler. I highly recommend to all readers who love a good sport's story filled with love and deep meanings as we have had a sport that brings wonderful memories.
I have grown up loving baseball; I have always been keen on military history and a good love story. Author Andy Kutler created an outstanding book that captured my attention and heart. The Batter's Box took me on an emotional journey as I flipped each page. Each character was deeply detailed and created a connection between the reader and author. The reader will feel connected to the characters not so much by their strengths, but more importantly, by their flaws.
Throughout the book the characters hardships and battles can bring out the best or the worst of anyone and this is one true example. An outstanding story line, a wonderful writing style, and a well developed emotional connection to the story itself will leave any reader wanting more from Andy Kutler. I highly recommend to all readers who love a good sport's story filled with love and deep meanings as we have had a sport that brings wonderful memories.
November 13, 2020
Lately, I have been reading a lot about the Second World War. The works of fiction that are set in this period of time are unsettling and fascinating at the same time, in my opinion. I especially like to read about veterans and how they reinvented themselves and struggled to come back to their “normal” lives after this terrible event in our history. This novel “The Batter’s Box” written by Andy Kutler is a perfect example of those stories. The author demonstrates his investigative ability and his skill to transmit emotions and feelings as well as constructing characters and describing scenes.
This book follows the story of Will Jamison, a star baseball player who is sent to fight in the war after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. After the war ends, he returns to America with decorations but also with a burden that is slowly consuming his life. Will he be able to change his destiny and transform his reality?
I loved this book and it is really worth reading. I highly recommend it.
This book follows the story of Will Jamison, a star baseball player who is sent to fight in the war after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. After the war ends, he returns to America with decorations but also with a burden that is slowly consuming his life. Will he be able to change his destiny and transform his reality?
I loved this book and it is really worth reading. I highly recommend it.
November 13, 2020
As much as the world is in chaos dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, I believe we definitely need ways out. For me, it is reading.
I came across this novel and I was immediately captivated.
Set in 1946, the narrative deals with the story of a former basketball player and now veteran who has just returned from WWII and has two plans: reclaiming his place in the professional basketball team and getting his beloved woman back.
Even though Will Jamison, the main character, is tormented by an inevitable guilt and memoirs he cannot escape from, his purpose in life is now clear.
The Batter's Box falls into the category of Historical Fiction and simple English language has been employed to describe the sequences of events that make up this great read.
The tale touches sensitive issues like abandoning a comfortable life to pursue other interests and then facing the consequences. It would teach readers a lot of lessons. Every time we choose some things, we also lose some others. Great one!
November 20, 2020
“The Batter’s Box” by Andy Kutler is outside of my normal scope of reading, but it was so well-written I was glad I decided to give it a try. Kutler tells the story of Will Jamison in a historical context that immerses the reader into Jamison's era. Living during the time of World War II, Will signed up to serve in the Allied forces during the war after he had hit star status as a baseball player. When he returns back and tries to resume his baseball career, he has to overcome both physical and mental obstacles, including the love interest of his life, who had been married to an abusive husband when he left for the war. She was the person who kept him going with memories during his dark times at battle, and now she’s back in his life. But with PTSD and so many other challenges, would he be able to handle love, his baseball career, and getting his life back on track? It’s a love story for the ages.
November 21, 2020
The Batter’s Box: A novel of baseball, war, and love is an amazing book that approaches the drama of the world wars from a different perspective that I feel like I have never heard of from this kind of perspective before. After a veteran comes home from the world wars, he is faced with the challenge of reentering society as it is. He was a professional baseball played and needs to get back to work – but the challenging environment forces him to leave it all. Why would someone simply walk away from everything they’ve ever known and love (especially when it involves coming back from dealing with the hardships of battle). I think this is an excellent book to read if you are looking for a realistic slice of life kind of book that responds to the hardships of returning from military leave and a coming of age tale that challenges the turmoil of realizing some events just change you and your priorities. Andy Kutler did an amazing job creating and engaging world.
January 20, 2020
Historic story of baseball and war
This is a great story about Will Jamison and his life as a baseball star in the era of World War Two. When Pearl Harbor is attacked, he puts his career on hold to join the fight for america. His wartime experiences have carved deep scars into his heart and soul. When he returns from the war, he goes back to the Washington Senators and reclaims his top status. One day he just walks away and disappears from the public and isn’t heard from again. Filled with the pain and guilt of a war he wants to forget, Will is struggling to deal with and move forward in his life. This story is packed with emotion and takes a long hard look at what happens to the soul of a man who is sent off to war. Great read with well developed characters and storyline. This one is definitely worth the read.
This is a great story about Will Jamison and his life as a baseball star in the era of World War Two. When Pearl Harbor is attacked, he puts his career on hold to join the fight for america. His wartime experiences have carved deep scars into his heart and soul. When he returns from the war, he goes back to the Washington Senators and reclaims his top status. One day he just walks away and disappears from the public and isn’t heard from again. Filled with the pain and guilt of a war he wants to forget, Will is struggling to deal with and move forward in his life. This story is packed with emotion and takes a long hard look at what happens to the soul of a man who is sent off to war. Great read with well developed characters and storyline. This one is definitely worth the read.
November 10, 2020
The Batter’s Box: A Novel of Baseball, War, and Love by Andy Kutler is a military and baseball historical fiction book. It revolves around the main character named Will Jamison who is a veteran from the second World War and a prior professional baseball champion. When Will returns from the war, he is scarred by many things from his war time experiences, which leads him down a tumultuous and dark path of anger, misery, and alcoholism. I thought that this was one of the best told stories I have read. The author did a wonderful job intertwining each and every aspect of the story from the characters to the settings to the situations. It was meaningful and emotional. I was very moved by this story and Will’s experience. I think there is some realism to it despite it being a fictional book. This, to me, makes it feel very real and raw.
November 11, 2020
The story begins with an interview to Kay about Will Jamison, he is a star player with the Washington Senators that enlists in the U.S. Army and IS our prime character. After he comes back from war, all the drama and trauma that come from there changes him without even him noticing. He wants to come home, go back to baseball and his friends and family until one day he suddenly disappears.
The author, Andy Kutler, accurately weaves historical events with fiction into a creative and compelling novel filled with emotions and takes a long hard look at what happens to the soul of a man who is sent off to war. There are many layers in this 30-chapter novel; Heroism comes with a horrific price when it comes to war, and Kutler makes sure we understand that by giving amazing details.
This book is definitely one of my favorites so far, I can even say it’s a home run! Totally recommend it.
The author, Andy Kutler, accurately weaves historical events with fiction into a creative and compelling novel filled with emotions and takes a long hard look at what happens to the soul of a man who is sent off to war. There are many layers in this 30-chapter novel; Heroism comes with a horrific price when it comes to war, and Kutler makes sure we understand that by giving amazing details.
This book is definitely one of my favorites so far, I can even say it’s a home run! Totally recommend it.
November 12, 2020
People say that coming back from war is hard. Many cannot sleep, tormented by the horrors of war, and it is impossible for them to leave those who died behind.
Author Andy Kutler is the writer of “The Batter's Box: A Novel of Baseball, War, and Love”. This is the story of Will Jamison, a star player with the Washington Senators who enlists in the U.S. Army. After returning from war, Will wants to win back the love of his life and his place in the major leagues of baseball, without knowing that this would be very difficult.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It is a medium-length book, with 30 chapters. In this story, sport and love mix in an exquisite way. The author undoubtedly has a unique style, and his prose is agile. The way in which he narrates the scenes, makes you want to keep on reading. Without doubt this novel narrates a unique love story.
Author Andy Kutler is the writer of “The Batter's Box: A Novel of Baseball, War, and Love”. This is the story of Will Jamison, a star player with the Washington Senators who enlists in the U.S. Army. After returning from war, Will wants to win back the love of his life and his place in the major leagues of baseball, without knowing that this would be very difficult.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It is a medium-length book, with 30 chapters. In this story, sport and love mix in an exquisite way. The author undoubtedly has a unique style, and his prose is agile. The way in which he narrates the scenes, makes you want to keep on reading. Without doubt this novel narrates a unique love story.
November 11, 2020
This is a very attractive plot; we have a few things going on giving us readers a context on the main character Will Jamison. So, the story is set during World War II years, when a very successful athlete enrolls in the U.S. army following his desire to defend his country. His patriotism side wins over his very nice life in the states. When he comes back from the front line overseas, it appears that everything is right where he left it, even the love of his life, or at least that’s what it seems. Everything is going well again until he runs away from a game and went dark.
The story describes a few things he went through in war that damaged his spirit leading him into very shady PTSD times. He will have to analyze if losing the love of his life is worst than
The story describes a few things he went through in war that damaged his spirit leading him into very shady PTSD times. He will have to analyze if losing the love of his life is worst than
November 12, 2020
This story caught my attention from the first pages. It is heartbreaking and real as well. The author, Andy Kutler, perfectly captured the essence of a man who has returned from war with memories which he cannot erase and with scars that will make his life completely different from how it was like before.
Character portrayal is a plus in this novel, but the plot is very good too; it is well written and very descriptive. Readers can empathise with the main character and how difficult it is for him to try to act normal when things in his mind aren’t normal at all.
I would recommend this novel for sure. It is a very good read that caught me reading almost non stop; although it has more than three hundred pages, I devoured it in just a couple of days.
Character portrayal is a plus in this novel, but the plot is very good too; it is well written and very descriptive. Readers can empathise with the main character and how difficult it is for him to try to act normal when things in his mind aren’t normal at all.
I would recommend this novel for sure. It is a very good read that caught me reading almost non stop; although it has more than three hundred pages, I devoured it in just a couple of days.
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