In the spring, a young man’s fancy turns to — baseball; at least my eleven-year-old grandson’s does. We have lots of new books on baseball this year but the writers definitely seem to like the history of baseball. I’m sending my son a copy of Baseball Miscellany by Matthew Silverman because he loves trivia, especially sports trivia. It would be a good buy for the bar that used to call me every Monday night at the reference desk so I could declare who was the winner of their bets. I haven’t heard from them in a long time; guess they Google the answers now. That must put a stop to a good rousing argument before it even gets interesting! And they never brought me that drink they promised me!
Two new books about old baseball players are Henry Aaron: Baseball’s Last Hero by Howard Bryant; call number BA113 and Campy! The Two Lives of Roy Campanella by Neil Lanctot; call number BC186. Both are in the NEW biography section. We also have books on anything related to baseball such as coaching youth baseball, hitting, softball, or memoirs of baseball players in the 796.357 section.
The first floor also has books on current players and playing baseball, for the under eighteen set, in the same Dewey call number section. It’s a wonderful way to encourage a boy to read! Killing two birds with one stone–encouraging a boy to enjoy reading and learning how to play baseball at the same time. Where did that old saying come from? Pretty horrible when you think about it.
If you like to read fiction, don’t forget The Natural by Bernard Malamud and if it’s a DVD you are looking for Baseball’s Greatest Legends might be just the ticket. Finally if you are looking for an audiobook to listen to as you drive to Myrtle Beach or even driving to work, the Boys of Summer might be just the thing. Whichever you choose – enjoy!
Phyllis Rogan, Reference Librarian
Steele Memorial Library
My family grew up on the ball field. My sister and I played Softball while my brother played baseball. He has a passion for the sport. We live in the College World Series for Baseball area. Thanks for the book information.