A Glove of Their Own

A Glove of Their Own is a special project that was written by Debbie Moldvan, Keri Conkling, and Lisa Funari-Willever, and illustrated by Lauren Lambiase. It is a nostalgic look at the original American pasttime of baseball.

A group of kids gets together almost every day to play in on old field. Many days that they're out, an elderly man watches from the fence, cheering the kids on as they imagine they are playing at a sold-out stadium. They have old, ratty equipment, no bleachers, no benches, and no scoreboard, just a will and a dream.

One day, the man stops by, hauling bags filled with gently used mitts, bats, chirts, balls, hats, and cleats that were left over from the days when he was a coach and his children were young dreamers playing on that field. He leaves, telling them to remember that the game is more than just a score.

The children agree to treasure these gifts, and vow to one day pass them on to another group of dreamers, just like themselves.

The story alone is touching. It brings about nostalgic memories of when baseball was steroid and drama-free, played by real heroes. It demonstrates the innocence and limitless imagination of young players.

Even more moving are the illustrations. They are so realistic, you feel like you could reach out and grab the old baseball mitt, or tie the old shoes. The characters' faces are familiar, as if they are your own or those of someone you knew once upon a time.

The book has won several awards, including winner of the 2009 Benjamin Franklin Award for Best Children's Books, Finalist Foreward Magazine Book of the Year, and Finalist Eric Hoffer Book Award.

A Glove of Their Own was published by Franklin Mason Press. Unique to this company is that they reserve two pages at the back of each of their books for guest young authors and illustrators. The guests are ages 6-9 years of age. Nonfiction and fiction stories, between 75-200 words, as well as any word-free illustration is welcomed. Winners receive a small financial prize, framed award, and a complimentary book, as well as being published in an upcoming book. Get full rules at their website at www.franklinmasonpress.com.

A portion of each sale of A Glove of Their Own is donated to one of numerous organizations that are dedicated to ensuring children are given a chance to have a glove of their own. These include Good Sports, Sports Gift, and Pitch In For Baseball.

Stay tuned for interviews with the authors and illustrator.

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