The Dog That Pitched a No-Hitter

by Matt Christopher

Overview

Passport to Reading Level 4
Newly independent readers will love this classic baseball story now illustrated in full color with brand new artwork!
Mike has a special relationship with his dog, Harry. They can read each other's minds! Harry is able to help Mike out with tips about the opposing players on the baseball field, but Mike's having trouble with his pitches--and the buddies need to work together to save the game!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780316141031
Publisher:	Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication date:	04/01/1993
Series:	Mike and Harry Series
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	42
Product dimensions:	5.70(w) x 8.70(h) x 3.00(d)
Lexile:	650L (what's this?)
Age Range:	6 - 8 Years

About the Author

Matt Christopher is the best selling name behind more than 100 sports-themed books for young readers.

Editorial Reviews

In this addition to Christopher's The Dog That . . . series, young Mike is scheduled to pitch against the toughest team in the league, but he's pitching wild. Mike once again calls on his dog Harry, who happens to be gifted with ESP. Harry can telepathically communicate information on each batter's weaknesses and strengths to his master. This works early on, but by the game's important climax, Mike has gained confidence and is guided by his own instincts. He pitches a no-hitter. Although this is a sports fantasy directed at the early chapter-book audience, it strains credulity and is so predictable and preachy that all but the most diligent fans of the series will lose interest early on. Ages 6-8. (April)

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

Gr 2-4Mike and his telepathic dog, Harry, return for their third adventure following The Dog That Stole Football Plays (1980) and The Dog That Called the Signals (1982, both Little). Mike, the less-than-stellar pitcher for the Grand Avenue Giants, gets special help from Harry, who can spot each batter's weakness and advise Mike on the best pitches to throw. Unfortunately, Mike's arm isn't always up to Harry's coaching, and when the Giants face the Peach Street Mudders, Harry decides a new tactic is in order. Enlivened by plentiful pen-and-ink sketches, this is basically just one incident which has been stretched into a short book, and therefore there is very little plot to de velop. There is, however, plenty of hu mor, and Christopher's fans will greet his latest offering with enthusiasm. Kathleen Brachmann, Highland Park Public Library, Ill.

School Library Journal