Zero Ford wants to be an exceptional pitcher but it is not until he injures his hand that he discovers he can now throw a "slider"- a pitch guaranteed to strike out any batter. But can he duplicate his success when the bandage is removed from his hand? And, will the Peach Street Mudders be able to play if the coach is unable to find a substitute for himself while he is on vacation? Zero finally musters up enough courage to try pitching without the bandage and to ask his uncle to take over coaching the team and all works out well in the end.I have to admit that I didn't actually come across this book on my own. My husband and son found them at the library this summer and my son (who is a 4 year old, baseball fanatic) has really taken a liking to this series of books. My husband read many of Matt Christopher's books when he was a kid, so he is kind of reliving his childhood during their nightly read aloud. So, I haven't even technically read this book but listened to my husband read it to him. My son loves listening to it and is excited to be listening to a chapter book. However, the chapters are a good length and there are black-and-white illustrations in each chapter to help with the visualization of the text for the early chapter book readers (or listeners). This series would be a great addition to any young readers collection if they love baseball. Zero is faced with the task of trying to overcome a difficulty which will leave young readers wondering if he'll be able to do it. Older readers many find a little bit of predictability in the story line, but will still find enjoyment as they turn the pages.
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