"The Last Days of Summer" by Steve Kluger tells the story of a young boy named Joey Margolis in 1940s New York City. Joey is a bright and imaginative child who is passionate about baseball, particularly in his admiration for the New York Yankees. His life takes an unexpected turn when he develops a friendship with a grumpy, yet charming, baseball player named Charlie Banks. Through letters, Joey and Charlie form a bond that helps them navigate their personal struggles and the complexities of life.
The narrative unfolds through a series of letters, diary entries, and stories, allowing readers to experience the emotional depth of the characters. Joey, dealing with family issues and a quest for acceptance, finds solace in his friendship with Charlie, who is facing his own challenges in the sports world. Their interactions reveal themes of loyalty, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams against the backdrop of significant historical events.
