Book Learning

Recently published sport-themed children's books, and the lessons of life they offer.

Foursome the Spider, by Larry Nestor and Michael Glenn Monroe

PLOT
A spider with argylelike markings on his body hits seeds with a twig and earns the notice of the local press, which dubs him "the golf bug." People—and insects—from all over come to watch.

MORAL
Always respect the power of the media.

Shoeless Joe & Black Betsy, by Phil Bildner and C.F. Payne

PLOT
Shoeless Joe Jackson's career is launched after a batsmith carves him Black Betsy, a hickory bat that the legendary hitter rubs with oil, wraps in cotton and sleeps with nightly.

MORAL
Great players are weird.

First-Base Hero, by Keith Hernandez and John Manders

PLOT
Sammy is stuck playing rightfield for his Little League team when what he really wants to do is play first base. He gets his chance when the team's first baseman goes down with an injury.

MORAL
The DL can be your friend.