Ronald Morgan Goes to Bat

Ronald Morgan #5

by Patricia Reilly Giff

Although he can't hit or catch, Ronald Morgan loves to play baseball; but he's got a lot of spirit and with a little practice maybe that's all he'll need.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1988

About the author

Patricia Reilly Giff was an American author and educator whose warm, emotionally resonant books made her a beloved figure in children's literature. After spending roughly two decades as a teacher, she turned to writing and brought a deep understanding of young readers to stories that balanced humor, resilience, and emotional truth. Educated at Marymount Manhattan College, St. John's University, and Hofstra University, she drew on both her classroom experience and literary instincts to create memorable fiction for children and middle-grade readers. She became especially well known for the popular Polk Street School series, which captured the everyday dramas of school life with charm and empathy. Beyond those books, she wrote acclaimed novels such as Lily's Crossing, Nory Ryan's Song, Pictures of Hollis Woods, Eleven, and Genevieve's War, often exploring themes of belonging, family, hardship, and courage. Her work earned wide recognition, including Newbery Honors, an ALA Best Book for Young Adults designation, and a Christopher Award. Giff also influenced younger writers through her workshops and teaching spirit. Throughout her career, she remained a compassionate literary voice whose stories spoke directly to children's fears, hopes, and imaginations.

Reviews

[Kia M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This would be a great book to keep in your classroom library as it stresses the importance of perserverance. No matter what anybody says, you keep at it until you get it. Great motivational tool.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars -- Finally! A story in which the parents are helpful! Ronald Morgan is hopelessly bad at baseball. He is an encourager, though, to the rest of his team, and so the coach encourages him as well. What Ronald does not tell anyone, though, is that he is afraid of the ball and closes his eyes when it is pitched to him. It is only when his dad tells him that he was the worst baseball player too until he opened his eyes that Ronald has an "Ah ha!" moment. His mom and dad practice with him, and when he finally hits the ball with the bat, he is excited about playing baseball.

[Hannah Knight · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book for children to read. The boy builds his confidence and others can too!

[Kelly Chester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super cute book

[Oksanna Scheidt]

"Two things," Mr. Spano told us. "Try hard, and keep your eyes on the ball." The two things that are so important to anyone, child or adult, when learning to play the delicate art of baseball. Ronald Morgans excitement was soon shattered when he realized that once he couldn't actually hit the ball, he was considered a bad player. One faithful day though his dad helped him out and told him to open his eyes.

The things that drew me into the book were the colorful pictures done by Susanna Natti and the moral to never give up, even when you know you should. The pictures drew me in because they were so realistic and we could see the book better than if we would have had to imagine them ourselves. The moral is what kept me drawn in. It's always inspiring to see the children find out how they are doing something wrong and they change it to make themselves better.

[Kelsey]

I loved this story. Ronald loved baseball, but he was horrible. This book teaches practice and not giving up helps you become successful.

*realistic fiction, picture book

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book on how all participants are valuable.

[Laura H]

I love Ronald's spirit. The rest will come to him, when he just keeps trying!!

[Angelica Cowart · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ronald Morgan may not be good at baseball, but he has a heart for the game and that changes everything. This would be a great way for kids to understand everyone is different but, we all have something we are good at.