Review of Billy Jones's Father

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
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Misael Carlos
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Re: Review of Billy Jones's Father

Post by Misael Carlos »

I’m looking forward to digging this novel to find out if Arnold will turn out to be just like his abusive father in his treatment of his own son Billy. I like family drama and anything about relationships and this one is right up my alley.
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Surabhi Rani
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Post by Surabhi Rani »

'Official Review: Billy Jones's Father And the Apple Tree' by Fred Engh offers a valuable insight into the historical fiction story of the book for readers. The comments in the review are potent and relevant. The point that the book recounts a series of events that unfolded in the town of Torrid Hills, North Carolina, where sports held immense significance is worth mentioning in the review. Also, as mentioned in the review, the point that the book conveys numerous valuable lessons while offering a fresh perspective on the sports culture in Torrid Hills is remarkable for readers. It was great to learn that there was a delightful touch of playfulness throughout the pages of the book!
Haime Alshaef
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Post by Haime Alshaef »

This sounds really interesting. Sometimes, kids who have been abused by their parents can grow up to be like them, while others become the opposite. I’m curious to see if Arnold will end up like Scotty or if he’ll be able to move past his pain and become a better person. Great review!
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Jorge Leon Salazar
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Post by Jorge Leon Salazar »

The central theme is thought-provoking since certainly many parents and coaches are relentless with children trying to make them excel in sports. Sometimes they don't realize the physical and emotional burden they put on them. I hope Arnold didn't make the same mistakes as his father.
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Sou Hi
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Post by Sou Hi »

Congrats on BOTD. It seems this book will teach us meaningful lessons about parenting and unjust expectations.
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Kebun Bunga
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Post by Kebun Bunga »

"Billy Jones's Father And the Apple Tree" is a captivating book that explores the effects of parental pressure in the sports-obsessed town of Torrid Hills. The story follows Arnold, who strives to protect his son Billy from the abusive treatment he experienced from his own father, Scotty. As Arnold coaches Billy in t-ball, the book raises the question of whether he will repeat the cycle of abuse or become a better parent. The review highlights the book's ability to chronicle the intense sports culture in Torrid Hills and presents a moving narrative about the consequences of pushing young athletes too far. It praises the writing style, character development, and the book's ability to impart valuable lessons.
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Chrystal Oaks
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Post by Chrystal Oaks »

After reading the synopsis and review of this family life fictional book about the abuse by parents in children's organized sports, it brings to mind the reports of parents attacking the umpires. Hopefully, parents and coaches will see how potentially damaging children's sports can be. Great review!
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Christopher Sublett
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Post by Christopher Sublett »

Billy Jones's Father And the Apple Tree by Fred Engh will resonate with all audiences especially sport fans, children, and parents alike. The author displays a serious and light tone when revealing how many parents can neglect the feelings of their children as they start to explore any sport at an early age. Arnold's experience with his father, Scotty, was an abusive one when he started playing baseball. As a father to his own son, Billy, he does not want to make the same mistakes of pressuring his son to fulfill a father's dream. I think this would be a classic and fascinating novel to read to clarify family morality and guidance to life events or activities.
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Youngreader720-OluwabukunmiWilliamsOso
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Post by Youngreader720-OluwabukunmiWilliamsOso »

The reviewer's description of the book's content and themes gives a clear understanding of what to expect. The mention of Scotty's abusive behavior and Arnold's efforts to break the cycle creates a sense of intrigue and emotional investment in the story.
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Post by DEEPA PUJARI »

The book provided a concise and captivating reading experience, presenting various accounts of life in sports within Torrid Hills. Congratulations BOTD!
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Laura Helsel Goggin
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Post by Laura Helsel Goggin »

This looks like a good book about children and sports. I have picked this as my next book to review. I can’t wait to start it.
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Post by Chimdik Chimezi »

"Billy Jones's Father" by Fred Engh seems to be an interesting book about parenting and sports. I will read to know if Arnold succeeded in teaching Billy how to be skilled at T-Ball.
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Adrian Rondon Salazar
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Post by Adrian Rondon Salazar »

I'm not interested in sports stories; however, I would like to read this story. It is common to find abusive parents in families; remarkably, Arnold has an interest in being a better father for his son even though he grew up with an abusive father. Thanks for the review.
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Anna_Hernandez
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Post by Anna_Hernandez »

As someone who has never been athletic, I have been shocked to see, over and over again, just how popular and influential sports can be. I know that historically, baseball played a huge part in keeping the morale of the US high during hard times. This sounds like another interesting perspective coming from a family legacy. Thank you for the great review!
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Post by todwyer01 »

From a sampling, this seems like an interesting historical fiction following Arnold, a boy who had a father that forced Arnold to do activities and perform well to the point of being nearly abusive. When Arnold had his own son, Billy, he is determined to not be like his father, but that may be harder than it seems. It might be worth a second look. Well done.
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