A Warm Welcome to “Safe at Home” by Mike Lupica
As a fervent fan of sports literature, I was drawn to Mike Lupica’s Safe at Home simply by the premise: a story about a young boy navigating the treacherous waters of fitting in, both at home and on the baseball field. Coming from a background where I often felt like an outsider myself, I immediately felt a kinship with Nick Crandall, the protagonist. Lupica, a #1 New York Times bestselling author, has a unique ability to weave sports and life lessons, and this book is no exception.
Nick’s journey is both heartwarming and relatable. Thrust into a new foster home that doesn’t share his passion for baseball, Nick feels adrift. As a twelve-year-old attempting to prove himself on a varsity baseball team, he contends with insecurities that are amplified by his age and the expectations from both his team and foster parents. What struck me most was how sensitively Lupica portrays Nick’s internal conflicts. The struggle for belonging—whether on the field or in a family—is an omnipresent theme, and I often found myself reflecting on my own experiences of seeking acceptance.
Lupica’s writing style is straightforward yet engaging, making it accessible for middle-grade readers while still conveying depth. He captures the feelings of fear and hope with ease, showcasing Nick’s evolution from doubt to confidence. The pacing kept me hooked; every chapter felt like an unfolding game, with tension building towards pivotal moments, much like the ninth inning of a close ballgame.
The camaraderie and rivalry within the team felt authentic, and I admired how Lupica crafted each character. The teammates, who were initially harsh, provided essential lessons in resilience and empathy. A particularly poignant moment occurs when Nick throws a perfect pitch after a rough start, where readers can sense both his frustration and determination. It’s a reminder that setbacks are merely stepping stones on the path to success.
Lupica’s storytelling is further complemented by the nuanced relationships Nick shares with his foster parents. Despite their initial disconnect, it’s touching to witness their gradual understanding of him—especially during those small yet significant moments like a simple game of catch, which becomes a powerful metaphor for connection.
For anyone who has ever felt out of place—whether at school, in sports, or in life—Safe at Home serves as a comforting reminder that finding where you belong is often a journey filled with trials and triumphs. It’s a book not just for young baseball lovers, but also for any reader who appreciates the combination of sports and emotional growth.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to those aged 9 to 12, especially young readers grappling with their own identities. Whether you approach it through a love of baseball or simply as a tale of self-discovery, Safe at Home offers nuggets of wisdom that resonate beyond the pages. Lupica has crafted yet another touching story that reminds us all that, though we might stumble, we can learn to find our place—both on the field and in the world.