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272
Novel • Fiction
Iowa • 1980s
1982
Adult
14-18 years
1020L
In Shoeless Joe by W.P. Kinsella, Ray Kinsella, prompted by an enigmatic voice, builds a baseball field in his Iowa cornfield, which draws Shoeless Joe Jackson and other players banned after the 1919 Black Sox Scandal. Ray then seeks out reclusive author J.D. Salinger and embarks on a quest involving long-lost major leaguer Moonlight Graham, ultimately confronting his past and reuniting with estranged family members.
Nostalgic
Fantastical
Heartwarming
Hopeful
Inspirational
17,836 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Shoeless Joe by W.P. Kinsella is a heartwarming tale blending magical realism and Americana. Critics praise its evocative narrative and emotional depth, celebrating its themes of dreams and redemption. However, some note its pacing issues and occasional sentimentality. Nevertheless, it remains a beloved exploration of baseball and personal fulfillment.
Shoeless Joe by W.P. Kinsella captivates readers who cherish the magic of baseball, nostalgia, and fantastical realism. Fans of The Natural by Bernard Malamud or Field of Dreams will appreciate its poignant exploration of dreams and redemption. Ideal for those who delight in literary works with a deep emotional core.
17,836 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
J.D. Salinger
A reclusive author who, in this fictional portrayal, reluctantly joins Ray on a journey to reignite a passion for baseball and creativity.
Shoeless Joe Jackson
A legendary baseball player banned from the game, whose spirit is drawn to the baseball field Ray constructs.
Johnny Kinsella
Ray's late father, who shared his love for baseball and appears on the field as a young catcher, continuing their connection after death.
Richard Kinsella
Ray's estranged twin brother, who reconnects with the family and learns to see the magic of the baseball field.
Mark
Ray's practical and ambitious brother-in-law, who seeks to modernize Ray's farm but is thwarted by the field's new popularity.
Archie Graham
Also known as Moonlight Graham, a character who transitions between his roles as an old, beloved doctor and a young baseball player eager for a game.
Annie Kinsella
Ray's supportive and loving wife, who encourages his dreams despite the family's financial struggles.
Eddie Scissons
An elderly friend of Ray, whose passion for baseball leads him to realize his dream of playing for the Chicago Cubs on Ray's field.
Karin Kinsella
Ray's imaginative young daughter, naturally attuned to the mystical events taking place at the farm's baseball field.
Abner Bluestein
Business partner of Mark, involved in plans to acquire and develop Ray's farm.
Gypsy
Richard Kinsella's girlfriend, with a vibrant personality that allows her to appreciate the wonders of the baseball field.
272
Novel • Fiction
Iowa • 1980s
1982
Adult
14-18 years
1020L
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