Book Review: 56: Joe DiMaggio and the Last Magic Number in Sports by

Originally published on Pinstripe Alley

I was recently given a chance to read 56, a new biography of Joe DiMaggio. You can read my interview with author Kostya Kennedy here. The book focuses on the young DiMaggio in 1941, an expectant father, a budding superstar, but not yet an icon. Drawing from his interviews and research, Kennedy draws us back to this world, showing us the characters lives through their own eyes.  This frees the book of the mustiness that clings to most posthumous biographies.

The book functions on three levels: the intersection of DiMaggio the ball player and DiMaggio the man, the reactions and observations of those around him, and the view from the larger world.

Interview with Kostya Kennedy, Author of 56: Joe DiMaggio and the Last Magic Number in Sports

Originally published on Pinstripe Alley

I recently got to talk by telephone with Kostya Kennedy, author of the new book 56: Joe DiMaggio and the Last Magic Number in Sports.

Not to give to much away from the book review I plan to post tomorrow, but if you spend the $20 on that book, it'll be the best investment you make this spring.

I definitely have to thank Mr. Kennedy for spending time talking with me about my favorite ball player, and I hope you enjoy reading this interview as much as I enjoyed conducting it.

J: I want to start with, why write about Joe DiMaggio? What is it that you find so fascinating about the Streak?