Chicago Cubs: John Grisham to Release Chicago Cubs Novel on April 10th

Perhaps one of the most recognizable writers of today, John Grisham is best known for his intense legal thrillers and courthouse dramas, as well as the occasional sports novel.

Besides law and crime, Grisham is also an avid sports fan. Growing up in rural Arkansas, he is an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan, and even jokingly criticized Hillary Clinton for her devotion to the Cubs at a fundraiser that he hosted for her in 2007. 

Despite his devotion to the Cardinals, Grisham's latest novel details the fictional story of Joe Castle, a AA first baseman for the Cubs who was abruptly called up to the majors in the summer of 1973.  Grisham's official website previews the novel to be released on April 10:

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Calico Joe quickly became the idol of every baseball fan in America, including Paul Tracey, the young son of a hard-partying and hard-throwing Mets pitcher. On the day that Warren Tracey finally faced Calico Joe, Paul was in the stands, rooting for his idol but also for his Dad. Then Warren threw a fastball that would change their lives forever.  In John Grisham’s new novel the baseball is thrilling, but it’s what happens off the field that makes Calico Joe a classic.

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Grisham also wrote the screenplay for the fictional baseball movie Mickey, released in 2004 and starring Harry Connick, Jr.

Despite not being released until April 10th, the book is already ranked 51st in sales on the Barnes and Noble website.