The Batmaker of Copenhagen
The Story of Cricket's Second World War Hero
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Pitch Publishing Ltd
Published:1st Apr '24
Should be back in stock very soon
This uplifting tale follows a cricket hero's quest to keep the sport alive during the Nazi occupation, blending espionage and passion in The Batmaker of Copenhagen.
In The Batmaker of Copenhagen, readers are introduced to the remarkable story of Frederick Hanson, a cricketing hero determined to preserve the sport he loves amidst the chaos of World War II. As the Gestapo tightens its grip on Denmark, Frederick embarks on a perilous journey to find willow, the essential material for crafting cricket bats. His quest is not merely about sports; it symbolizes hope and resilience during a time of oppression. The narrative intertwines elements of espionage and the profound passion that cricket ignites in its players and fans alike.
Set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Denmark, The Batmaker of Copenhagen highlights Frederick's bravery as he navigates a landscape fraught with danger. With German U-boats blocking supplies from England, the humble cricket scorer must rely on his ingenuity and courage to produce bats for the game. As he scours the countryside, he faces constant threats from Gestapo spies, underscoring the risks he takes for the love of cricket.
The tension escalates with the introduction of his adversary, a ruthless Gestapo chief known as 'Lucifer', who is intent on dismantling any resistance. This battle of wills not only shapes Frederick's fate but also impacts the course of the war. Based on true events, The Batmaker of Copenhagen is an uplifting tale that beautifully fuses the worlds of cricket and espionage, showcasing the lengths one man will go to in order to keep his passion alive.
"Absolutely superb read... very evocative, really paints a picture of wartime Denmark. A very, very good... fast-paced, cat and mouse thriller."
* Phoenix FM *"An excellent and thought provoking read."
-- Martin Chandler * CricketWeb *"I cannot recommend this enough... Brooks mixes historical fact with fiction like a batter mixes singles with boundaries in a well crafted innings to create an equally well crafted novel. If the hero had been searching for the materials to make tennis racquets, shuttle cocks or even bowling balls, the story would have been equally gripping and beautiful."
* Deep Extra Cover *"The narrative is absorbing... the hero comes across as an ordinary guy on an extraordinary mission."
-- Allan Martin * Aspects of History *"Thoroughly entertaining... an uplifting tale of human spirit [and] well paced, stirring story."
* The Cricketer *"Splendid, a rollicking romp of a read... has an elegiac sadness and a spirituality to it."
-- Dan Norcross * Test Match Special and Surrey Cricket TV commentator *"A thoroughly engrossing read [and] compelling story beautifully told... Tim's deep love of the game shines from every page."
-- Jake Perry * Emerging CrickISBN: 9781801506977
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
256 pages