There Goes Ted Williams: The Greatest Hitter Who Ever Lived: Candlewick Biographies

Candlewick Biographies

by Matt Tavares

“A glorious tribute to a baseball legend and a complicated human being.”  — School Library Journal

Ted Williams was an ordinary kid who wanted one to hit a baseball better than anyone else. So he practiced his swing every chance he got. And then practiced it some more. From his days playing ball in North Park as a kid to his unmatched .406 season in 1941 to his stints as a fighter pilot in World War II and Korea, the story of Teddy Ballgame is the story of an American hero.

Genres: Biography, Sports, Picture Books, Nonfiction, Baseball, History, World War II

48 pages, Hardcover

First published February 14, 2012

About the author

Matt Tavares was born in Boston, and grew up surrounded by books and reading. From the time he was very young, his mother read to him every night, and his family made countless trips to the public library. Years later, as a studio art major at Bates College, he rediscovered his love for picture books, and decided to try to make his own.

For his senior thesis project, Matt wrote and illustrated a story called Sebastian's Ball, which eventually became Zachary's Ball, Matt's first published picture book. Zachary's Ball went on to win a Massachusetts Book Award Honor, and was named one of Yankee Magazine's 40 Classic New England Children's Books.

Since then, Matt has published eighteen more books and has won several awards, including three Parents' Choice Gold Awards, an Orbis Pictus Honor, and two ALA Notable books. His artwork has been exhibited at the Museum of American Illustration, the Brandywine River Museum, and the Mazza Museum of Picture Book Art.

When Matt's not working in his studio on his latest book project, he travels the country speaking (and drawing) at schools, libraries, conferences, and bookstores. He has presented at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Eric Carle Museum, the White House Easter Egg Roll, and he's even done a few book signings at Fenway Park.

Matt lives in Maine with his wife, Sarah, and their two daughters.

Reviews

[Paul Hankins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this one about "the greatest hitter than ever lived." What's really to like about this new title from Matt Tavares is how takes an iconic figure and presents them in a historical context that really brings together the figure, the sport, and the time period.

What I like about Tavares's newest title is how he captures Williams's face at key moments, particularly that final at bat that results in another home run.

Your young guy readers will love this baseball title (mine came with HENRY AARON'S DREAM which I will be enjoying later).

Extensions in the reading classroom might include a comparison of Williams' record (Tavares does a nice job of including statistics in the back of the book that young guy readers will just eat up) to those of current players.

[Ben Truong · Rating 4 out of 5]

There Goes Ted Williams: The Greatest Hitter Who Ever Lived is a children's picture book written and illustrated by Matt Tavares. It centers on Ted Williams' goal was to be the greatest hitter who ever lived.

Theodore Samuel Williams was an American professional baseball player and manager. He played his entire 19-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career, primarily as a left fielder for the Boston Red Sox from 1939 to 1960. Williams is regarded as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history.

Tavares' text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. With subtle rhythm, Tavares' prose poem depicts the course of Williams’ career, from his tireless commitment to practice through events that took him away from the field, including the eruption of two wars. Backmatter includes an author's note, statistics, and bibliography. With smooth, sweeping lines and naturalistic details, Tavares' mixed-media artwork conveys Williams' joyful devotion to his sport.

The premise of the book is rather straightforward. Hall of Famer Ted Williams began playing baseball professionally at age 17, joining the then minor league San Diego Padres and playing his entire major league career with the Boston Red Sox. Williams always returned to baseball: rejoining the Red Sox after his plane is shot down in Korea, Williams hits 13 home runs in 37 games and is named Player of the Decade for the 1950s.

All in all, There Goes Ted Williams: The Greatest Hitter Who Ever Lived is an wonderful biography that introduces Ted Williams to a new generation of baseball fans.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matt Tavares is an enthusiastic, joyful fan of baseball; his delight for, and exhilaration over the sport comes through in all of his books. Ted Williams is a perfect subject for Tavares since Williams also had so much enthusiasm for the game.

Tavares tells what a hero Williams was, in spite of his reputation for being a jerk by throwing tantrums, cursing, dissing the fans, and so on. But most baseball fans have excused him, because he was just too good not to appreciate. He was Tavares’ father’s childhood idol.

The book explains just how and why Williams was so amazing – both on and off the baseball field. For example, Williams was a figher-pilot Marine hero both in World War II and Korea. His military service took nearly five full years out of his career, nearly all in his prime, yet he still managed to amass amazing batting numbers. Most modern statistical analyses place Williams, along with Babe Ruth and Barry Bonds, among the three best hitters to have played the game. And his service garnered him accolades as well, including a Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The illustrations (watercolor, gouache, and pencil), also by Tavares, are up to the author/illustrator’s usual high standards in terms of historical authenticity and the ability to capture action and convey emotions.

At the back of the book there are background notes and a page of statistics.

Evaluation: I don’t like watching baseball, but I sure love reading about the heroes who have participated in the game. This is a great book, and not just for baseball fans!

2012 Junior Library Guild Selection
2012 Oppenheim Gold Seal Award
2012 Booklist Top Ten Sports Books for Youth
2012 New England Book Award finalist

Note: This is an author you should get to know. Besides producing well-researched great books, he spends a lot of time with kids, reading, signing books, and sharing his love of baseball!

[Rachel Driscoll · Rating 4 out of 5]

This picture book biography of the great Red Sox hitter, Ted Williams, is an engaging tale of a sports hero who often seemed larger than life. Beginning with Williams' childhood in San Diego. Tavares follows the slugger's career from being tapped at age seventeen by the San Diego Padres to his retirement from the Red Sox at age 40 in 1960. Through his delightfully colorful illustrations, Matt Tavares places much emphasis on Williams' drive and tenacity in his lifelong desire to have people remember him as, "the greatest hitter who ever lived." Tavares also highlights how stints in World War II and the Korean conflict affect, but do not derail, Williams' brilliant baseball career.
Being the Red Sox fan that I am, I thought I knew quite a bit about Ted Williams. However, I gained a whole new understanding and respect for his drive for perfection. I had been aware of his service in World War II, but I had been unaware that he also left the game to serve in Korea. Although he only highlights Ted Williams' history as one of baseball's legends. Tavares does explain in his author's nots that Williams was far from perfect. He scribes Williams' famous temper and rocky relationships with the Boston fans and sports media.
"There Goes Ted Williams" would be a great addition to a biography unit in a classroom from grades three through middle school. For a struggling middle school reader, the wonderful illustrations could aid in comprehension of Williams' story. Both this book and Tavares' "Oliver's Game" would be useful in highlighting how going to war can affect and change a person's life.

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

This brief biography of baseball slugger Ted Williams is accessible and enjoyable, partly because of its simplicity but also because of the author's use of repetitive phrases. Readers will enjoy following along with the Boston Red Sox player's successes, but they will also learn from some of the choices he faced. Although this version of the famous player's life story has been romanticized in many ways, the text and detailed watercolor, gouache, and pencil illustrations make it clear how much he loved baseball. At several points, he literally dances around the bases, and his face almost always seems to be wearing a smile. Interestingly, Williams chose to fight for his country during WWII and the Korean War, a decision that could have cost him his career. Although the book doesn't explore those choices, teachers could certainly prompt a discussion about them during class time as well as examining similar choices made by other athletes during wartime. By the time readers complete the book, they will recognize that this most single-minded of men had accomplished his goal of becoming "the greatest hitter who ever lived" (p. 32). An Author's Note includes additional information about the author's connection to Williams through his own father and some of the more unpleasant aspects of his personality. It also describes his involvement with various charities. Although none of that information has been woven into the story, these facts add to the man's complexity.

[Jasmine Yanich · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a biography that talks about Ted Williams' life and how he was "the greatest hitter who ever lived." This is only a partial biography because it does not go through his life from birth to death. It was pretty authentic although I felt like the author left out an important detail in the story of Ted Williams' life that he briefly mentioned in his author's note in the back. However, the detail was still not specifically described and to me it is a major accomplishment of Ted Williams. The book however, does do a good job in telling about the career of Ted Williams minus the one missed detail. I thought it was interesting how he went back and forth from his baseball career to the military and how the book went in chronological order like that and not just a section on baseball and a section on his military experience.

I think this could be used in a text set about baseball, or sports. We looked at another book with it and it helped to provide a more detailed depiction of Ted Williams' life. If teaching a unit on nonfiction or biographies, it could definitely be used for them. You could have your students write their own biographies, or their own version of a biography on Ted Williams with the information they think is important and how they depict his life.

[Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know nothing about baseball. I grew up in Alvin, Texas in the sixties. When I grew up, I went to work teaching out-of-town and the first thing people said to me when I introduced myself was whether I knew Nolan Ryan. "Who is Nolan Ryan?" I asked.

So don't think that I adore this book just because I adore baseball. I am still clueless about baseball.

Even if you are like me, don't let that stop you from reading this book. Matt Tavares shows his adoration of Ted Williams on every page. You can't help starting to love Ted, too, as you read along, learning that Ted grew up always swinging something, becoming one of the best hitters ever by the time he was twenty-two when he was unexpectedly drafted in World War II, coming back from the war and picking up right where he left off in baseball, and then being sent off again for combat missions in Korea this time, crash landing his plane, somehow okay, and then going on to play for seven more baseball seasons.

Amazing how much this story made me love Ted Williams and baseball. Just think how much you will like this book if you already love Ted and baseball.

[Alexandria Stephens]

There Goes Ted Williams: The Greatest Hitter Who Ever Lived sheds light on Ted Williams as a professional baseball player and his work during World War 2. Ted Williams worked day and night to become a famous baseball player and his dreams came true after being recruited by the Yankees at a young age. Williams didn't accept the offer from the Yankees and instead waited until he could play for a team closer to his home. Eventually, Ted Williams was recruited by the Boston Red Sox's in 1939 and played with them for years being noted as one of the best baseball players in the game. Ted Williams accomplished great things both on the field and off the field. He fought in World War II and the Korean War and took time off from baseball for the wars. The book doesn't focus on the downfalls of Williams during his baseball years, and instead focuses on his determination and accomplishments. This book can be used as part of a social studies unit about historical figures. The students can go more in depth about Ted Williams work as a pilot and write about other people who fought for our country.

[Hilary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matt Tavares hits a home run with “There Goes Ted Williams: The Greatest Hitter Who Ever Lived.” Tavares grew up hearing amazing stories about Williams from his father. He says, “The Ted Williams I grew up hearing about seemed larger than life. He could see the seams on a Bo b Feller fastball. He could fly a fighter jet. He could do just about anything.” Even when Tavares discovered a less likeable side of Williams through his research for this book, he also came to realize that despite his faults, Williams was still a hero. His batting record (included in the back of the book) supports this, as does Williams’ voluntary enlistment to become a fighter pilot in World War II and the Korean War. Very few players would jeopardize a successful professional baseball career to serve in the military.

“There Goes Ted Williams” is told in prose so spare that it is almost poetry. The text is combined with wonderfully evocative illustrations that capture Williams determination and grit to become a legendary baseball hitter, and his deep-seated joy in the game of baseball. A quick, but memorable read, this appealing, engaging volume is sure to be a hit with all readers.

[Stephanie Tournas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Matt Tavares infuses this easy to read biography with his palpable love of the subject. Sharing the story of Ted Williams in the present tense makes it seem like he is telling the story directly to the reader as it happens. His warm engaging illustrations are perfect counterparts to the baseball legend's trajectory from an ordinary boy obsessed with his swing, to a major league contract player at age 17, serviceman in two wars, and a player with an uncanny ability to hit home run after home run. Includes Author's Note, Bibliography, player statistics and index. Perfect for an early grade biography report.

Although I really appreciated the details supplied in the Author's Note, it seems to me that some of the negatives in Ted Williams's life mentioned in the Note (his temper, swearing, feuds with fans and media) would have rounded out the portrayal of this larger than life figure if they were included in the body of the book.

[Pamela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ted Williams always dreamed about being the best hitter in baseball. Growing up in California in the 1930s, he practiced till his hands would bleed. Recruited at 17 by the NY Yankees, his mom wasn't ready for him to be so far away and he played minor league for another couple of years, until he was recruited by the Boston Red Sox in 1939. He played with them till 1960, taking a few years off for World War II and the Korean War. This book captures the determination and hard work that must accompany a dream to make it come true. An Author's Note acknowledges that Williams had his human foibles, as do we all, but still managed to do much good during his life, and to fulfill his baseball dream. The language is full of imagery and action, and readers see him as both a baseball giant and an air force pilot. (advisable for elem sch lib)

[Marcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew the Ted Williams story, as a life-long Red Sox fan. But this wonderful picture book presents the highlights of one of the greatest players ever in a new way, that show how remarkable his feats were. I loved Matt Tavares' soft watercolor and pencil illustrations. Williams' military service and skill as a pilot get the credit they deserve. In the author's note, Tavares states that some of the research he did revealed that not everything about Williams was wonderful - he had a temper, threw tantrums and swore a blue streak and he wished he didn't know this about him. It is so refreshing to acknowledge the athletes we put on pedestals are human, and he goes on to recognize the work Ted Williams did for children with cancer. A gem of a picture book for any baseball fan.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this! Author Matt Tavares' sincere admiration for Ted Williams rings true throughout the book. Both the narrator's voice and the real life protagonist came through so clearly - no easy task in a picture book. In light of Williams' reputation (and the author's end note), this was especially appealing. He chose to focus on Williams' greatness as a baseball player, a pilot, and a humanitarian, rather than some of his less pleasant characteristics. A kids' picture book actually made me cry, and think, and smile, and laugh. Wonderful illustrations. Highly recommended for boys, baseball fans, and book lovers!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book tells the story of Ted Williams, baseball player and fighter pilot. The gem of this book, I believe, is the author's notes which explain how the author grew up hearing stories about this larger-than-life baseball hitter from his father. He also explains that during his research he found out things he perhaps would rather have not known - Ted's temper, language, and relationship with sports writers. This, of course, simply makes Ted Williams more real and human.

A great addition to a spring baseball unit. The author's notes add a human element to the hero - an important lesson for students.

[Rosa Cline · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a children's book, but I felt it was a bit 'over my son's head' with things he couldn't understand. So I read it myself since I enjoy biographies. Between the text and the illustrations this is a good story about the read life ball player Ted Williams. I found it interesting all the things he accomplished on the ball field and on the war field serving during two wars. This would be a great book to open the door to explain soldiers and war. What I really enjoyed was an 'author's note' in the back. He wrote about all his research and some of the things he left out of the 'children's book' giving the reader a closer insight to Mr Williams. Over all a good book.

[Ms. Tongate, TLC Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did you know that Ted Williams, the greatest hitter who ever lived, was a fighter pilot in World War II and the Korean War? Ted Williams was an ordinary kid who dreamed of being the greatest hitter who ever lived, then dedicated his life to make that dream come true. Ted Williams did have faults in his adult baseball years, but he did show great sacrifice by risking all he had worked for to serve his country in two wars. Ted Williams is an American hero.

Great informative read-aloud for secondary students, not just during the World Series or baseball season, but for Veterans Day.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have always been a big fan of baseball and my 9 year old son is a big fan of anything sports related...so I always appreciate a story that we can sit down and share together. This was a biography about the life and career of home run hitter Ted Williams. I appreciated that his life was dedicated to working and serving in other areas then just baseball. It launched a great discussion about balance in life and priorities!

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, maybe not AMAZING, but a really good book, and of course I am a baseball lover, so I connected a little more personally to this story. Loved hearing all about Williams' life...not only as a hitting king, but also as a fighter pilot. Loved Tavares' illustrations, and I especially loved that he included an author's note about some of the not so great parts of Williams' life. I am getting quite a collection of baseball greats picture book biographies!

[Steven · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful homage to Ted Williams and his baseball/military career. I'm also a big fan of Matt Tavares' work as well.

I wonder though if he should have made more mention of some of Williams' faults/quirks within the story(other than the note at the end of the book). He was a bit more of a complex character than the book would have you believe.

Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed the trip into baseball's past!

[Alyson (Kid Lit Frenzy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matt Tavares does a lovely job with this picture book biography. He focuses on the career of Ted Williams including the breaks when he was serving in the military. He does avoid some of Williams personality quirks and other aspects of his life which are referenced at the end of the book in the end notes. The book is an honor to Williams' career as a baseball player. Nice job.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book because my husband's father was also a big Ted Williams fan and named him after the baseball great. I learned quite a bit from this biography which was written in a very kid-friendly way. The author's note at the end provides more insight into Williams's life as well. Great for baseball fans!

[Christina Getrost · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice biographical picture book about the famous baseball player. Beautiful art, and an inspiring story--he wanted to become good at baseball so he really really worked at it as a kid. Then he was also a pilot in World War II, and amazingly came back to be a great ballplayer again! Has bibliography but does not list specific sources used in writing book.

[Alberta Medina]

Interest Level:5-7
Lexile Reading Level: AD801L

Share with older reluctant readers. Although it is a picture book it is a higher level read that is fun and interesting. Along with the biography of Ted Williams this book includes a brief history on WWII as he was involved. Use as a way to connect concepts like WWII to everyday life.

[Halee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading Level: 3.8
Interest Level: K-3

This a great non fiction book for those sports fans in the classroom! This book pairs great illustrations with true facts that bring alive the baseball story of Ted Williams. The back of the book also includes the baseball stats for Williams career and great bibliography for where all the information of the book came from.

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a nicely told biography of Ted Williams, complete with solid notes and bibliography at the end. I appreciated the author's admission of some of Ted Williams' less-than-stellar attributes in the note as well as his reminder that Williams was still a heroic larger-than-life kind of guy.

[Laura Phelps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like all of Tavares’ work, this is a beautiful book and it is accessible to most middle grade readers and is an excellent read aloud for all ages. It’s an inspiring story and the notes and bibliography provide readers with a deeper understanding of Teddy Ballgame.

[Maureen Tully · Rating 4 out of 5]

Engaging text and great illustrations. I especially appreciate the additional information in the Author's Notes at the end that give more detail which makes for a more complete and accurate picture of the man.

[Lynn Plourde]

Feb. 14-day of love, love for BASEBALL! Official release of THERE GOES TED WILLIAMS. No one does baseball books better than Matt Tavares--can't wait to read it!

[Colby Sharp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so excited to share this book with the perfect reader. He LOVES baseball and is a giant WWII nut.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gorgeous piece of bookmaking, very nice that Candlewick went with this large trim size. Can't wait to share it with students.