Named after the mighty Babe Ruth, Ruth DiMarco has some big shoes to fill. But she's already on her way to achieving her dream of becoming a major-league baseball player. Eleven-year-old Ruth is the star shortstop in her small Maine town, and now a reporter is coming to interview her for "Sports Illustrated" magazine. She's at the top of her game. Then she overhears her father in the crowd: "Real major-league talent. But I can't help thinking what a shame it is that it's all wasted on a girl."
Suddenly Ruth is doubting herself, her dream, and the game she loves. In search of answers, she looks to those closest to her: her best friend, Ellie, a self-proclaimed feminist; her father, a famous sportswriter; and her mother, a firefighter hero, who died eight years ago. But Ruth knows the truth lies within herself. The real question is: Without "Sports Illustrated" and Little League and Babe Ruth, who is Ruth DiMarco?

"From the Hardcover edition."