One Shot at Forever, by Chris Ballard has exceeded my expectations in every way. When I decided to read this piece of literature I assumed it would be somewhat elementary, but it is far from that. In this story Ballard chronicles Macon, a small high school in Illinois, path to the state championship game. In doing so he integrates literary elements like escape, and personal beliefs on a consistent basis.

One shot at forever is the perfect book for any sports fan. The main topic is baseball, the sport that millions of Americans consider the national pastime. In the story each game is summarized in great detail. The excellent descriptions provide vivid images for the reader, allowing them to feel as though they are in the stands. Through the events that take place on the field and in the classroom it is apparent that there are similarities between the story and my personal beliefs.

To say that Lynn Sweet does not go by the book would be an understatement. The English teacher and baseball coach has a different approach than most. In the classroom, Mr. Sweet gives the students the freedom to read whatever they want as long as they write a summary on it afterwards. Every individual that crosses Lynn’s path becomes an instant fan of him, especially those on the baseball team. As a first year coach Sweet’s only requirement is that the kids have fun; practicing every day is not mandatory. Sweet does not have any background in coaching baseball, but he believes in his players. As one continues to read, it is apparent that this team full of misfits has a season for the history books. This book clearly displays that success does not derive from using the most expensive bat, or having the star athlete, but instead by having a coach that thinks you can win. If one is a fan of stories of true brotherhood, then this is the perfect book.