Book details
The Ghost, the Eggheads, and Babe Ruth’S Piano: A Novel
Description
It's the summer of 2004 and Freddie Holtzman can't wait to get to Camp Mason, a summer camp for eggheads or rather, gifted teens. He hopes to reconnect with Ginny Haig, a girl he met at camp last year. Freddie's old friends, Logan and Monty, are there along with some new faces. He tries to win Ginny's affection, but every time he tries to talk to her, he says-and does-nerdy things. At Camp Mason, a science fair pits the eggheads against one another for the top prize of a five thousand dollar scholarship. But, when the projects go missing, friendships are put to the test, relationships get put on hold, and everyone's a suspect. To make matters worse, the camp is haunted by young Billy Mason who died there decades ago. The boys are determined to solve the mystery of the ghost and the missing science projects. Freddie's quest to win the scholarship-and the girl of his dreams-are constantly in jeopardy. There are complications at every turn: the ghost, a creepy caretaker, Freddie's high school nemesis, a cantankerous camp manager, and a saboteur all threaten his chance to win the prize and Ginny's heart.
Age
13-17
Text complexity
beginner
Why to read
- Engaging Historical Elements: 'The Ghost, the Eggheads, and Babe Ruth’s Piano' incorporates intriguing historical references, especially for those interested in the early 20th century and the legendary baseball player Babe Ruth. Reading this novel offers a chance to delve into a story that intertwines history with fiction, creating an immersive experience.
- Unique Blend of Genres: The novel is a unique cocktail of genres—a mix of mystery, sports history, and the supernatural. This unusual combination makes for a fresh and engaging read that stands out from typical offerings in any of these genres alone.
- Exploration of Themes: Larry Sweitzer’s narrative explores diverse themes such as ambition, the pursuit of knowledge, and the consequences of our actions. Readers who enjoy a story that provides food for thought will appreciate the depth and moral queries posed by the book.
- Character Development and Humor: The characters in the novel are well-developed, and the interactions among the 'eggheads' (intellectuals) provide a humorous undertone to the story. Reading this book will not only offer entertainment but also an attachment to its quirky and memorable characters.