Phillies reader updated

The Phillies Reader, an anthology of some of the best writing about the up-and-down history of the Philadelphia Phillies, was recently re-released in an updated paperback edition featuring several new essays—including one about Citizens Bank Park—and the team’s recent history.

The book, published by Temple University Press, features essays on the athletic achievements of such legendary players as Chuck Klein, Richie Ashburn, Dick Allen, and Mike Schmidt; the political turmoil surrounding the “ok” from manager Ben Chapman to “ride” Jackie Robinson about the color of his skin; the bizarre shooting of Eddie Waitkus; the heroics of the Whiz Kids; the heartbreak of ‘64; and the occasional triumphs and frequent travails of controversial managers Gene Mauch, Frank Lucchesi, and Danny Ozark. It asks why fans boo great players such as Del Ennis, but forgave Pat Burrell for his horrendous 2003 slump.

Featuring essays by Red Smith, Pete Dexter, Roger Angell, Roy Blount and James Michener, among many others, The Phillies Reader presents a compendium of Phillies literature that reveals what it is that makes legends.