SPL Reads!

The Dixie Association: Avid Readers’ Special Event

I hope to see everyone this Thursday at 6PM for a special reading by Arkansas author Donald “Skip” Hays.  He’ll be reading from his novel The Dixie Association and answering questions about the novel and the writer’s craft.  The Dixie Association is not only my favorite sports book, it’s one of my favorite books, period.  In fact, I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending the book to a person who cares little if anything for baseball.   The Dixie Association is a hilarious, often raucous look at life in the American South, and Arkansas, in particular.  The plot centers around Hog Durham, an ex cattle rustler and small time thief, and his triumphant season playing first base for the Arkansas Reds.  The Reds are a motley crew of characters, including Cuban refugees, a Native American spitballer, a washed-up drunk knuckleballer, and even a beautiful young woman who substitutes for Hog at first base.  During their season, the Reds encounter religious fundamentalists, the good old boy justice system, and political pressure from the media and aspiring politicians alike.  These encounters make for a wild read.

The reading promises to be an entertaining one.  As always, newcomers are welcome to join us.