Review - Double Play - 9/10

Robert Parker, who is one of my favorite authors, starts a new story line with the character Burke; and to be honest, this is the first book by Parker outside of the Spenser series that I really enjoyed as much as Spenser.  Burke is a despondent war veteran of the Second World War who was sent home when he was struck by enemy fire and critically injured.  When he gets home, he also learns that his wife has left him.  Through a series of events, he ends up protecting Jackie Robinson (the first African American to play in baseball in The Majors).

For of us who never really experienced racism, Parker really paints a powerful picture of the reality of the despicable attitudes that existed towards people of color during that time.

At the same time Parker tells the story of how Burke's relationship with Robinson lifts him out of his fog and show him to care about life again.

Very thought provoking while at the same time enjoyable novel to read.