101 Things You Can Teach Your Kids about Baseball, 2nd Ed.

Rating:
Summary: A Good Addition to the Library
Review: 101 Things is one of the better baseball books I have come across. It is obvious that Marsh knows baseball, and he presents information clearly. I also like the tone of the book -- although he discusses some of the fine points of the game, he doesn't get too technical, or talk down to the reader.

The book has sections for different parts of the game (pitching, hitting, bunting/baserunning, etc). Each section then consists of one paragraph tips, with each tip rated as beginner, intermediate, or advanced. The drills are clearly labeled and placed next to the appropriate tip.

Marsh writes at the end of each chapter, "remember, it's only a game..." But the game is much more enjoyable when coaches and players know what's going on. No one book can teach someone how to coach or play baseball, but this book certainly helps a lot.

Rating:
Summary: A potential pro
Review: This is an excellent read for those parents with potential future athletes.
We had aspirations of a baseball career for our 9-year-old son "goose". After many years of baseball camps, late night practices, a lot of personal coaching on my part and meetings with his professional pitching coach we had to face reality. Which is, "goose" was never going to be able to develop a curve ball and did not have the intestinal fortitude to play "through" the pain. It was a great disappointment for us but it is far better to face reality than continue to waste our time and money on a prospect that was not going to provide an adequate return on our investment. Luckily for us though the Johnson's down the street had a son with much potential and a killer slider, so along with some other incentives (VCR, big screen TV) we were able to trade "goose" for a potential winner. Thus illustrating good things do happen to those willing to make some hard decisions.
We will miss "goose" though and his sister (a potential Olympic swimmer) is already adjusting to the trade.

Rating:
Summary: Concise, readable and very helpful troubleshooting tips.
Review: This is the first book of its type I've bought. The format is very readable and easy for reference and though there is a wealth of info, it doesn't overwhelm.Marsh clearly knows what he's talking about and so far his methods are showing almost immediate results. Buy this book and I'll see you in the playoffs!