Super Short Summary

Bang the Drum Slowly by Mark Harris follows star pitcher Henry Wiggen and his teammate Bruce Pearson, who is diagnosed with terminal Hodgkin's disease. Henry supports Bruce's wish to keep his condition secret to remain with the team, negotiating to secure Bruce's spot. As Bruce's health declines, the team unites around him, ultimately leading them to victory while exploring themes of comradeship, determination, and mortality. Topics of terminal illness and death are present.