ABOUT THE AUTHOR

John O'Donnell cheered for the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox during the Kennedy Administration, never really thinking that one of the teams would actually play in and win a World Series in his lifetime- just didn't fit the image that a Chicago baseball fan has established. After decades of reading baseball books, O'Donnell figured it was time to write one himself. Attending nearly 450 Cubs and White Sox games over 46 years, and keeping score at nearly every one, trivial events take on added meaning. One never knows when a pitch, a swing, or even a foul ball can turn someone's life around.

O'Donnell's grandstand perspective may lack the celebratory flavor of the bleachers or the first class demeanor of a luxury suite, but it may resonate with the fan who's glad to be there and knows that the game is the thing. Games enjoyed at other ballparks in other towns can teach as well, but can't compare to the "old school" lessons learned at Wrigley and the old Comiskey.

During the summer, O'Donnell works as a vendor at Elfstrom Stadium, home of the Kane County Cougars, to satisfy his baseball fix and earn money for his next major league game.

For 25 years, O'Donnell has been teaching high school English and Theology. O'Donnell has taught at St. Joseph, St. Viator, St. Edward, Aurora Central Catholic, Marmion, and Benet Academy.

O'Donnell's family and friends have made significant contributions to LIKE NIGHT & DAY. O'Donnell lives in Aurora, IL, with his wife, Betsy, and his four children, Brian, Julie, Michael, and Katie. O'Donnell thanks his parents, Charles and Norene, who took him to his first baseball game. O'Donnell's siblings- Jeanne, Mark, Dennis- have also endured his addiction to baseball.