Smarty Marty's Got Game (Smarty Marty)

First-time children's book author Gutierrez brings her background as a reporter for the San Francisco Giants and her evident enthusiasm for the game of baseball to this story about two siblings' day at the ballpark. Marty (named in honor of Gutierrez's baseball-loving grandmother) is excited to teach her less-than-enthusiastic younger brother, Mikey, the ins and outs of the game. As she does so, readers get an education in baseball terminology ("Hitters one and two are 'table-setters.' Their job is to get on base"), scoring, strategies, and slang ("Grab some pine, Meat!" shouts Marty after a player strikes out). Marty's excitement never wavers, even when Mikey tests her patience. "Bunting is silly," Mikes says at one point. "Marty's eyes went wide, and she took a deep breath. 'Bunting, ' she said, 'is actually very important.' " McCauley (Take Me to Your BBQ) composes dynamic scenes of ballpark action with a palette of outfield green, basepath tan, and--of course--Giants orange; a portion of sales benefit the nonprofit Junior Giants. An enlightening and entertaining intro to the national pastime. Ages 4-8. (Oct.)

Gr 1-4--Smarty Marty and her brother, Mikey, have tickets to the baseball game against their hometown team's biggest rivals. But Mikey isn't really a fan, especially when comparing baseball to video games. Lucky for him, his sister is the perfect companion to give him an appreciation for it, from keeping score to chowing down on snacks to walk-off home runs. Smarty Marty learned everything she knows about baseball from her great grandmother, and the narrative effectively captures the way families share both the love of a sport and of a particular team. The author capably weaves a substantial amount of basic information about baseball throughout, making this picture book a useful tool for families or caregivers looking to introduce children to the sport or prepare them for their first game. The kids' narrative occasionally takes a backseat to this background material, but McCauley's visually engaging cartoon layouts, unique perspectives, and overlayed frames capture the excitement of watching a live game. The vibrant color scheme largely emphasizes purples, greens, and oranges, with plenty of contrasting black and white accents. Back matter includes a biographical author note and tips for keeping score.--Ted McCoy, Oakland Public Library, CA

Amy G s wit and her knowledge and passion for baseball shine through in this heartwarming story about baseball and family that is sure to be a favorite in many homes. - Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants Pitcher

"So glad to have a book I can share with my kids that speaks to the heart of the game. Amy s sense of family and knowledge of baseball are very apparent. And it doesn t hurt that the good guys wear orange and black!" - Buster Posey, San Francisco Giants Catcher

"Amy G captures all the elements of why a day at the yard is so much fun. The tips, details and love for the game are delivered in a great story I think kids and their parents will enjoy." - Matt Cain, San Francisco Giants Pitcher

"Amy G hits one Outta Here with Smarty Marty. I absolutely loved it!" - Duane Kuiper, San Francisco Giants Broadcaster and Former Second Baseman

"Amer the Gamer totally knocks it out of the park with Smarty Marty! It is a delightful story wrapped around the preservation of a great baseball tradition. Big League all the way!" - Mike Krukow, San Francisco Giants Broadcaster and Former Pitcher"