A Baseball Story

by written and illustrated by Richard Torrey

For the child who is nervous or curious about joining their first sports team. This gentle story captures the funny and relatable hurdles of a first baseball game.

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About This Book

Reach for this book when your child is facing the jitters of a first practice or feeling overwhelmed by the rules of a new group activity. It is the perfect tool for normalizing the mix of excitement and confusion that comes with joining a sports team for the very first time. The story follows a young boy as he navigates the hilarious and slightly chaotic reality of his first baseball game, from getting his uniform to figuring out which way to run. Torrey uses gentle humor to validate a child's perspective, showing that it is okay not to be an expert right away. Parents will appreciate how it de-escalates the pressure of performance and focuses instead on the joy of participation and the funny moments shared with new friends. It is an ideal choice for preschoolers and early elementary students who are transitioning into organized play.

Starting a New Activity First Day Baseball & Tee Ball Anxiety & Worry Joy & Gratitude Becoming a Big Kid Humor Self-Confidence & Identity

What Parents Should Know

Mild PerilMild

Very minor physical comedy/slapstick moments common in sports.

Sensitive Topics

This is a secular, realistic, and low-stakes story. There are no heavy topics like loss or trauma. The primary focus is on performance anxiety and social navigation in a hopeful and lighthearted manner.