"The Natural" is a novel written by Bernard Malamud that was published in 1952. The story follows Roy Hobbs, a talented baseball player whose career is interrupted by personal tragedy. After years away from the game, he returns to baseball in his 30s, aiming to fulfill his dreams of greatness. The novel explores themes of talent, ambition, and the struggle between good and evil. It highlights the challenges Roy faces as he tries to achieve success with the New York Knights, a struggling baseball team, while dealing with his past and the temptations of fame.