Strat-O-Matic Fanatics: The Unlikely Success Story Of A Game That Became An American Passion

If you spent hundreds of hours (thousands?) playing Strat-O-Matic baseball as my friends and I did from around the age of 12 until at least the time I graduated from Law School, you won’t want to miss this story of the man behind it and the processes that developed the game!

I wish I read this sooner. An inspirational read! If you love SOM, you will love this book. Highly recommended.

Strat-O-Matic Fanatics would, at first glance, seem to be of interest only to the small group of die hard enthusiasts who play, and are passionate about, Strat-O-Matic Baseball and want to know how it came to be.Readers are treated to a riveting story, however, about a very shy boy who found solace from his chaotic household surroundings by inventing a game with dice and cards that replicated baseball. Not only is the creator's (Hal Richman) story vividly told, it is done so with a great deal of sensitivity and insight. In addition to being a very personal story, it is also a fascinating tale of the formation of a beloeved small business that has managed to survive despite the entry bigger, better funded competitors, due to careful attention to and understanding of the marketplace and its customers.Sadly, few people who don't play Strat will give this book a chance, but anyone could find something to enjoy in this book (for those who DO play the game, its really a must read).NB: The book is well written, despite what a few other reviews state. I'm already looking forward to Guzzo's next book on baseball statistics.

Anyone who grew up playing Strat-o-matic will love learning the history behind Hal Richman and this iconic game. Although I still have most of my baseball game cards after 47 years (some lost due to moisture), the book had me craving to buy a new set and relive those glorious days of yore. 3-6 It's Gone ⚾

I am a Pursue the Pennat & Dynasty card player, however, I have read Glenn Guzzo's articles from PTP newsletters. I was always interested about Hal Richman's childhood and how it lead to his fantasy of becoming a creator of playing Strat-O-Matic Baseball. Good read for anyone who has a passion for baseball board games where their fantasy of becoming an owner, GM, & manager are fulfilled in a game!

Very detailed and informative book! The author went the extra mile (maybe a bit too far sometimes, sorry Hal !) to tell the whole story. Thank you!

This game has been a part of my life since age 9. Ilike the way Glenn provides a history of the development, andbeing a physician, I like the psychological aspects he covers.For me, it has always been more about reproducing thestats and employing strategy as opposed to graphics.Thanks, Glenn.

Very informative view of the history of Strat-O-Matic which any fan would like. The relationship with his father to start the book is perhaps a little too lengthy..

An interesting insight.

Great history on the product and founder.So-so written by author, but many insights that have been pieced together