Blue Ruin: A Novel of the 1919 World Series

Don't read this book expecting to get close to entertaining re-creations of the 1919 Chicago White Sox players. The main focus is on the set-up man for the fix (who is also set up by a behind-the-scenes big money operator). "Sport" is a gambler and a dreamer -- but finds life sadly sapped of vitality without the thrill of risking what he is told to be important -- financial security, self-respect, even love. So why not the World Series? We follow Sport's narration through the thrills of seemingly arranging the biggest of gambling risks, but the road always seems to bend towards emotional letdown and emptiness. I thought this book would be more about players and owners, but must admit it was an interesting journey into the mind of an addicted gambler. A bit clumsily written in some sections, but very original in its focus and conclusions.