Books like If I Never Get Back by Darryl Brock

Contemporary sports reporter Sam Fowler, stuck in a stagnant job and a failing marriage, is suddenly transported to the summer of 1869. There he immerses himself in the world of America’s first professional baseball players, a time that awakens his senses and redefines his identity. While facing the physical and social challenges of 19th‑century life, Fowler develops close bonds with the players and with the spirited Caitlin O'Neill. The novel paints a vivid picture of post‑Civil War America, from the smoky, turbulent cities of the era to the expansive transcontinental railroad, as well as the dance halls, parlor houses, and boom‑bust economy of the time. Historical figures such as Mark Twain and Jesse James appear in the backdrop. Combining sports history with period detail, the book offers an engaging read for baseball enthusiasts and general audiences alike.

First publish date: 1990