Baseball in Franklin: The Julio James Story

Julio was looking forward to playing baseball his junior year at West Aurora High School until Julio and his brother, an incoming freshmen, found out they were moving to a small town in Southern Illinois. Julio had dreams of playing college and professional baseball. Would those hopes and dreams continue or would they all but end with the move to Franklin? The small town of Franklin, like many communities in Southern Illinois, had friendly people. Like many small towns high school sports binds the community of Franklin together. After moving to Franklin, Julio and Jeremy discover the town has an unspoken way of living. They learn early in their move Franklin is not open to outsiders, especially African-Americans. Thanks to a strong bond in brotherhood, the two brothers push themselves to be the best brothers and baseball players they can be. Alexa, Julio's best friend, looks to Julio for support as she struggles with her own problems, while her tenacity leads Julio to fall in love with her. With the support of each other, Alexa and Julio develop a strong relationship which is only strengthened through the tough times they encounter. Thanks to hard work, diligence, and patience many in the community like Mike and Zach accept Julio and Jeremy as people and athletes.