Burned bridges
Paul describes how his father had "burned most of the bridges in his life." This metaphor is used to describe how his father had destroyed all his relationships, due to his difficult personality.
My world metaphor
Paul describes his 11-year-old self, saying that "baseball was my world." This metaphor is used to describe how baseball meant everything to him when he was a child.
Sent the entire town into orbit
Grisham describes the reaction of Joe Castle's family to his third home run. He writes that "the third home run sent the entire town into orbit." This metaphor emphasizes how exhilarated and delighted the town were about Joe's record.
like a broomstick
Grisham describes how Joe "whipped out his bat like a broomstick," during the match. This simile compares his bat to a broomstick, almost suggesting something magical about his abilities.
"The guy could fly."
When describing Joe Castle and his baseball abilities, Paul tells us that Castle "could fly." This metaphor is used to comment on Joe's quick speed, which allowed him to make history.
