Jayne Lauer

Up to Bat for Nana's Place Jayne Lauer

Chapter Book: Grades 5-7. When Bret Collier arrives on Sanibel Island for spring training with his baseball scout dad, little does he know he's in for a crazy adventure with Jami Shea, granddaughter of Olivia Shea, owner of one of the last pristine properties on the island. After meeting Bret in the Island Confectionery while delivering Nana's famous cookies, Jami jumps at the chance to watch a spring training game and meet the players. When Bret's Red Sox friend Joe Cruz learns she also plays and pitches, he challenges her to demonstrate her skills. While Jami is knocking the socks off Bret's teammates with her natural talent, Bret wonders about his own lack of ability as he struggles with his dad's attitude and expectations. Inspired by Jami's blue eyes and can-do spirit, he surprises himself with his play as he begins to realize his own potential. Their friendship is threatened when the two discover Bret's dad is the person behind the pressure on Nana to sell her property. Mr. Collier is determined to build a ritzy resort, using any means possible to get Nana to sell. Nana and Jami have plans of their own: to open a nature camp for kids, ensuring the property will remain in its natural state. While hiding Jami's connection to Nana, Bret and Jami cook up an elaborate plan to save Nana's place with the help of Humphrey, the cookie-dough-loving alligator that lives on Nana's property, and Carson Wills, an old friend of Nana's with a mysterious baseball past. Girls and boys alike will enjoy this adventure story about baseball, self-esteem, determination, and friendship.