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Cover of The pennant

The pennant

Written by Everett T. (Everett Titsworth) Tomlinson

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Boarding schoolsBaseball stories

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About this book

"The Pennant" by Everett T. Tomlinson is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers on the lives of two boys, Walter Borden and Dan Richards, as they spend their summer days fishing and preparing for a local baseball game. The narrative highlights themes of friendship, ambition, and the challenges of personal growth as Dan aspires to further his education while navigating the realities of his farm life. At the start of the novel, Walter and Dan are enjoying a day of fishing on Six Town Pond, engaging in lighthearted banter that reveals their contrasting backgrounds. Walter comes from a more affluent family and is eager to support Dan, who harbors dreams of attending school and becoming a better baseball player. As they fish, readers gain insight into their friendship, their aspirations, and the idyllic rural setting they cherish. The opening establishes the foundation for the boys' journeys, setting the stage for the challenges they will face as the baseball season progresses and Dan's ambitions unfold.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The pennant, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 6 hours
  • intermediate
  • uplifting
  • nostalgic
  • hopeful

Everett T. Tomlinson's "The Pennant" is an early 20th-century novel chronicling the summer adventures and personal growth of two young friends, Walter Borden and Dan Richards. Set against the backdrop of an idyllic rural community and the excitement of local baseball, the story explores Dan's aspirations for education and a better life beyond his farm, supported by the unwavering friendship of the more affluent Walter. The narrative skillfully weaves together themes of ambition, social class, and the challenges of adolescence as the boys prepare for a crucial baseball game, symbolizing their individual journeys and the pursuit of their dreams. It serves as a wholesome tale of perseverance, camaraderie, and the formative experiences of youth.

“"A good friend is worth more than a dozen home runs, Dan, though I wouldn't mind seeing you hit a few more!"”

Key themes

Friendship and Loyalty
The bond between Walter and Dan is central to the narrative, highlighting how true friendship transcends social and economic differences. Walter's unwavering support for Dan, both emotionally and potentially practically, underscores the power of loyalty and camaraderie in overcoming personal challenges.
Ambition and Aspiration
Dan's burning desire for education and his ambition to excel in baseball drive much of the plot. This theme explores the conflict between personal dreams and external realities, particularly the constraints of farm life and financial limitations. It celebrates the human spirit's capacity to strive for more.
Personal Growth and Perseverance
Dan's journey is one of significant personal growth, marked by his perseverance in the face of obstacles. He learns to manage his time, make difficult choices, and develop resilience, both through his farm work and his commitment to baseball and education. The novel emphasizes that true success comes from effort and an unwavering spirit.

Worth discussing

How does the friendship between Walter and Dan transcend their differing social backgrounds, and what does it teach us about loyalty?

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