John Feinstein Books In Order

Publication Order of The Benchwarmers Books

Publication Order of Bobby Kelleher Books

Publication Order of The Sports Beat Books

Publication Order of The Triple Threat Books

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books

Publication Order of Anthologies

About John Feinstein

The American author John Feinstein is well known for writing about sports, and American sports in particular, and has written for numerous publications over the years. Making a name for himself with his intelligent and insightful perspective, he immediately gets to the point, saying what needs to be said. Reaching scores of readers both nationally and internationally, he’s a gifted and versatile writer with a lot to say and offer his audience. Writing in a clear and straightforward style, he really draws his audience in, holding them there, keeping them gripped to the very end.

This approach to writing has successfully carried over into his fiction as well, as he’s gone on to create a number of stories in recent years too. Keeping readers engaged in his novels, he has managed to produce a number of books that really speaks to his audience the world over. Often creating series, too, he ensures that the readers come back time and time again, continually finding more in each of his novels. Allowing his stories to speak for themselves essentially, it’s also his in-depth knowledge of sports that really helps bring them to life.

Giving his stories a real feeling of authenticity, he manages to give each of his books a real sense of genuine vibrancy. His characters are also reflective of this, as they really do come to life for the reader, with many of them returning for successive books. Setting his work apart from other writers in his field, he’s an author with something clear to say, as he has a unique and idiosyncratic approach. With so much more to come, too, he’s a writer that will carry on writing for a long time yet, with plenty more books planned for the future.

Early and Personal Life

Born in the area of New York City on the 28th of July in 1956, John Feinstein grew up living with a father who was the general manager of the Washington National Opera. Growing up with a keen interest and sports and writing, he would continue to develop this throughout much of his life. Learning his craft, he would become a highly adept writer with something to say, focusing primarily on the field of sports.

Attending Duke University, he would later graduate in 1977 before going on to spend eleven years as a political and sports reporter. This work would give him a unique insight into writing, allowing him to develop the name and brand he’s currently known and regarded for today. Currently living between Potomac in Maryland and Shelter Island in New York, he continues to write on a regular and consistent basis.

Writing Career

Largely writing mystery novels and children’s books, John Feinstein is well known for producing fiction from a sport-based perspective. Most of his books contain sports in some form, as he writes in a knowledgable, fun, and highly engaging manner for each title. Previously a regular on ESPN as a reporter, along with commentating on ‘The Morning Edition’ on NPR, he’s also worked as a journalism professor visiting Duke University.

It was in 1992 that Feinstein would write his first novel, and it was a mystery titled ‘Running Mates,’ and it was also the first in the ‘Bobby Kelleher’ series. Later he would start his ‘Sports Beat’ series in 2005, beginning with ‘Last Shot,’ along with other series including ‘Triple Threat’ and ‘Benchwarmers.’ Publishing work for both the adult and Young Adult markets, he’s created a name for himself, along with producing popular screenplays as well.

Rush for the Gold

Published through the ‘Knopf Book for Young Readers’ publishing imprint, this title initially came out on the 22nd of May in 2012. Setting up the sixth book in ‘The Sports Beat’ series of novels, it would carry on with another mystery featuring its two teenage sports reporters. The bestselling series is aimed at younger readers and follows the characters of Susan Carol and Steve Thomas as they solve mysteries together. It’s an easy-to-follow story with another self-contained mystery that’s easy to pick up, although there are plenty of elements from the previous books for returning fans to enjoy.

Once simply reporting on sports, now Susan Carol is a teen sports star in her own right, as she’s heading off to the Olympics. Both in awe and envious of her success, her best friend Stevie is now covering her Olympic success, but he feels that there’s something not quite right. With agents and sponsors all gathering around Susan, it seems that everyone wants a piece of her success at whatever cost. How far will they all go to get what they want, can she succeed in the Olympics, and what will become of her rush for the gold?

Mixed Doubles

This would be the third and last title in ‘The Benchwarmers’ series of novels, finishing the overall trilogy of books. All of them are standalone, and this would be released as a self-contained novel and story for middle-grade readers. Released through the ‘Farrar, Straus, and Giroux’ publishing house, it would arrive on the 5th of April in 2022 to an already eagerly awaiting audience.

A sports prodigy at just eleven years old, Andi Carillo has fast become a rising star, with agents looking to sign her, but it’s Tennis where she truly shines. She’s best friends with Jeff Michaels, who’s also a talented player in his own right, but he’s starting to grow jealous of Andi’s skill. But they’re all going to have to depend on each other as friends and teammates if they ever hope to win the season overall. Will they manage to win, can they depend on each other for help, and who will emerge victorious from the mixed doubles?

Aimed at middle-grade readers, this wraps the series up, completing the trilogy with a well-told story of triumph over adversity. Easy to follow along for younger readers, it really does have a lot to offer, making it an engaging and entertaining novel. The characters themselves all feel well managed, with realistic voices and insight, making it all the more compelling to read.