Blockade Billy

Published: 2010

Blockade Billy (2010) combines two novellas with baseball themes. The title story follows William 'Blockade Billy' Blakely, a rookie catcher for the fictional New Jersey Titans in 1957 who demonstrates extraordinary talent while concealing a dark secret. Narrated by George 'Granny' Grantham, the team's third base coach, the tale reveals how Blakely's brief, remarkable career was literally erased from baseball history after the shocking truth about him emerged. The collection also includes 'Morality,' a previously published story about a financially struggling couple whose lives unravel after accepting a clergyman's morally compromising proposition. Originally published as a limited edition by Cemetery Dance Publications, the book was later released in an expanded trade edition by Scribner. King, a lifelong baseball enthusiast and part-owner of the minor league Bangor Senators, crafts the title novella with detailed knowledge of 1950s baseball, creating an authentic period atmosphere. Critics praised King's baseball expertise and the effective unreliable narrator technique, while noting the brevity of the collection. A special edition was distributed to members of the Boston Red Sox Season Ticket Holders' group, reflecting King's well-known fandom of the team. The audiobook features a reading by veteran character actor Craig Wasson, whose performance received particular acclaim. For readers, 'Blockade Billy' showcases King's ability to work in shorter forms and different genres, blending sports fiction with his characteristic exploration of hidden darkness. The novella's examination of fame, deception, and public personas connects it thematically to King's broader work beyond its unusual baseball setting. 'Morality' provides thematic contrast, examining how ordinary people can be corrupted by circumstance rather than inherent darkness. Together, the stories demonstrate King's versatility and continuing interest in exploring moral boundaries in different contexts.

Themes

• Deception
• Fame
• Hidden darkness
• Baseball
• Moral compromise

Adaptations

Collector Notes

Originally published as a limited edition by Cemetery Dance Publications before wider release. A special edition was distributed to Boston Red Sox season ticket holders, reflecting King's well-known fandom.