About the Book
Eight games into the 1935 season, Detroit Tigers catcher Mickey Cochrane is injured and done for the year. His backup is Arthur Graham, a 40-year-old rookie who has spent the last 22 years honing his skills in the Texas League.
Fast forward to Detroit, Michigan 1980. Graham is now 85 years old. He sits on the bench in front of the church feeding the birds. One sunny morning in July, his day is interrupted by 12-year-old Lincoln. When Arthur discovers that Lincoln eats, sleeps, and dreams baseball, he tells the young man a story he will not soon forget. Lincoln sits fascinated as Arthur’s words take him back in time to the glory days of baseball. It is a time of legends. Greenberg, Gehrig, Cobb and Ruth. Lincoln comes back to the bench each day, excited to hear more. It is Arthur’s love for God and his passion for baseball that he imparts upon young Lincoln what it means to truly live.
Arthur’s story is a faith-based journey that highlights perseverance, family values, and a loving God’s amazing grace. In the inspirational spirit of The Natural and For Love of the Game, The 40-year-old Rookie delivers a major league ending for the ages.
About the Author
Reese Barton was born and raised in, Detroit, Michigan, the youngest of two children. He was taught about the saving grace of God at an early age and accepted Christ as his savior at the age of seven. He has always loved to read and write, but after high school he studied criminal justice and embarked on a career in law enforcement. In July 2022, after over 26 years in law enforcement, he retired.
God remained a constant presence throughout his life, but it wasn’t until a few years ago that he really realized the importance of a daily relationship with Christ. That leaning on Him by building a solid foundation through reading the bible and praying daily was the only way to grow and experience His grace, love, and direction for your life.
Reese’s rekindled passion for writing has propelled him to start a series of Christian fiction accentuating the different aspects of faith. Fictional stories based on the truth that Jesus Christ is Lord. That those who, “Wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31).
Reese and his wife, Crystal, currently reside in the great state of Michigan. They share a loving home with two spoiled German shepherds. They really enjoy traveling and spending quality time with family and friends.
Reese is also an avid sports fan who enjoys playing golf and watching anything Detroit sports.
Qn 1: Can you tell us more about your book What is it about?
After a long, unfulfilling minor league career, 40-year-old Arthur Graham gets one last shot at glory with the 1935 Detroit Tigers. As he recounts his incredible journey to a curious young boy named Lincoln, Arthur’s story unfolds as a testament to perseverance, revealing how decades of failure, faith, and fortitude led to a single, unforgettable moment that would define not just a season, but his entire life.
Qn 2: Who do you think would be interested in this book, is it directed at any particular market?
This book was written for readers who enjoy heartwarming, character-driven novels with strong themes of faith and perseverance. It will particularly resonate with fans of baseball history and inspirational Christian fiction. The gentle, nostalgic tone and the intergenerational friendship at its core make it an ideal read for everyone who appreciate stories that feel both hopeful and grounded in real-world history. It is for the historical baseball enthusiast who enjoys nostalgic tales of the sport’s “golden era.” The 40-year-old Rookie appeals to anyone grounded in the hope that God loves us and is with us in our struggles and rejoices in our triumphs.
Qn 3: Out of all the books in the world, and all the authors, which are your favourite and why?
I am a big fan of C.S. Lewis. His books are inspiring and thought provoking. The Screwtape Letters is one of my all-time favorites. It is a reminder to always put the cross before us and the world behind us. There are so many great authors. I enjoy reading Mitch Albom, Stephen King, Harry Dolan, Dennis Lehane, and the list goes on and on. I don’t stick to one specific genre, but I have a knack for gravitating toward inspirational books that lift the spirit and make the soul smile. I am also a huge sports fan. For Love of the Game by Michael Shaara is a favorite, along with The Natural by Bernard Malamud. I am also a big fan of American history.
Qn 4: What guidance would you offer to someone new, or trying to enhance their writing?
I think the best piece of advice to give an aspiring author would be to write what you know or what you are passionate about. It always shows in your book. Theres nothing more disappointing to a reader than reading a book that has neither of those qualities. Don’t just throw a book together for the sake of publishing something. Quality over quantity should always win out.
Relax and enjoy the process. You have a story you want to tell, so don’t rush it. Do your research and take your time.
Qn 5: Where can our readers find out more about you, do you have a website, or a way to be contacted?
https://reesebarton.com/ is an interactive website that gives detailed descriptions of my books and where they can be purchased. It also has a bio page, my blog’s, and a contact us section that allows readers to share comments or ask questions.
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