Last Days of Summer

This section begins with a newspaper clipping regarding the famous aviator Charles Lindbergh, who was an isolationist and supported American neutrality during World War II. He is quoted as noting the “Jewish influence” on U.S. media, and implies that events in Europe have been overdramatized: “[I]f war comes, [Jewish-American citizens] will be blamed for it” (130).Joey receives a response from White House Press Secretary Stephen Early, in which he disagrees with Joey’s prediction of trouble with Japan, stating that “the Japanese have no desire to become embroiled in a world war” (131).

In further correspondence between Charlie and Joey, the boy tries to coach the ballplayer through the guttural “ch” sound in Hebrew in preparation for the duo reading aloud to the congregation at the upcoming bar mitzvah. Charlie replies that he attempted to practice this phonic sound while waiting at third base during a game with the St. Louis Cardinals and accidentally spat on the third baseman while doing so. A fracas ensued, with both benches emptied in order to join in the brawl, and Charlie was fined $50.00. Charlie is enjoying an award-winning season and is pleased to be in the company of his close friend, first baseman Jordy

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