Sports Fact and Book Rec of the Day 12/06/2007

12/6/1982:
Needing to make room for incoming third baseman Wade Boogs, the Boston Red Sox trade Carney Lansford to the Oakland A's for outfielder Tony Armas as the principals in a five-player deal. It proves to be a good transaction for both clubs. Boggs will step right in and win five batting titles in the next six years for the BoSox, and Armas will win the 1984 AL home run (43) and RBI (123) titles. Meanwhile, Lansford will finish his career with the A's as their best third baseman since Sal Bando; in 10 seasons, he'll hit .288 with a high of .336 in 1989.

Birthdays:
Stan Hack b. 1909
Otto Graham b. 1921
Andy Robustelli b. 1925
Bill Hazlik b. 1957
Richard Krajicek b. 1971

FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES

What is it about Roald Dahl that makes parents cringe and children delight? The made-up words, too much candy, and mean grown-ups who get their comeuppances at the hands of clever kids. Add outlandish situations, ripping plots, and colorful characters, and you begin to understand Dahl’s enduring appeal. Boy, the story of his childhood in Norway, is a classic that appeals to adults and children alike. If you are a boy or you have a boy or if you just love a good memoir, it’s a must.

BOY, by Roald Dahl (1984; Puffin Books, 2001)

Follow up with Going Solo (1986; Puffin Books, 1999), Dahl’s story of his time as a Royal Air Force pilot in East Africa. Comes complete with a crash landing in the Sahara.