"Brave in Season," a novel by Jon Vollmer, takes place in Julian, Nebraska in 1950.

"Different times make you have to do different things, like in summer pull weeds and in winter, chop wood. You have to be brave in season."

The townspeople in this tight-knit farm community must find a way to get along with an African-American railroad repair crew, known as gandy dancers, who are laying track for the dieselization of locomotives.

Jerome Wallace, the older gandy that the rest of the rail workers looked to for leadership and Dave Scarborough, a store owner, develop a respect for one another which has some of its roots in a love of baseball and it is not long before a pick-up game between the gandy dancers and some of the townspeople is in the works.

Carlin Littman, daughter of Ron Littman, owner of Littman Grain, shares her love of poetry with one of the gandy dancers and they become fast friends. a friendship that is tested in this book about the railroad, the racial tensions of the 1950s, and baseball.

I enjoyed this book, especially the character Carlin Littman, and would have enjoyed learning more about her transition from teenager to young woman and how her friendship with Sam Washington, the young gandy dancer, influenced her maturation.

Thank you to NetGalley and Sunbury Press Inc., and its Milford House Press division, for this ARC.

Jon Volkmer's "Brave in Season: A Novel of Race, Railroads, and Baseball" is a powerful and evocative narrative that weaves together the threads of history, racial identity, and the universal love of baseball. This novel transports readers to a pivotal moment in American history, offering a fresh perspective on the challenges and triumphs faced by its characters.

Set against the backdrop of the late 19th century, the story follows the lives of African American baseball players who are not only trailblazers on the field but also pioneers in the fight for civil rights. Volkmer's storytelling captures the essence of a tumultuous period in American history, providing readers with a visceral sense of the racial tensions and injustices of the era.

The protagonists are complex and relatable, each grappling with their own struggles, aspirations, and dreams. As they navigate the challenges of a racially divided society, readers are offered a glimpse into the personal journeys of these resilient individuals.

The integration of baseball into the narrative adds depth to the story. Volkmer effectively uses the sport as a metaphor for the broader struggles for equality and justice. The passion and dedication of the players, their love for the game, and their determination to excel despite facing discrimination resonates with readers.

"Brave in Season" explores themes of identity and self-discovery, as the characters grapple with their roles as both baseball players and advocates for racial equality. The novel shines light on the complexities of racial identity and the ways in which individuals navigate a world that often seeks to define them solely by their skin color.

Volkmer's language is evocative and immersive, transporting readers to a bygone era. His meticulous research is evident in the historical accuracy and authenticity that permeate the novel. The descriptions of baseball games and the atmosphere of the time are vivid and engaging.

It is a story of courage, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.