Book: Dreaming of the Majors
Author: Dick “Lefty” O’Neal
Genre: SPORTS & RECREATION / Baseball / History
Release Date: April 4, 2014
By all counts, Dick “Lefty” O’Neal didn’t have a chance of playing professional baseball. However, today he holds the distinction of being the only white baseball player to pitch for two teams in the Negro Leagues that flourished throughout the twentieth century. “Dreaming of the Majors” is his account of the dream he nurtured from the age of five to play Major League baseball, the people God brought into his life who shaped the dream, and the amazing and unexpected twists and turns Dick experienced along the journey toward fulfilling the dream.
Click here to get your copy.
My Review:
I love baseball. I also love reading about the history of the game; the players from the past; and the stories of their careers. Dick O’Neal’s career in baseball was not the typical one. He never made it to the major league; and he was one of very few white players who played in the Bush leagues. That’s notable enough in itself and makes reading about his experiences quite interesting.
But what elevates this story is how the author shares how God specifically worked in his life from the time that he was a disappointed seventeen year old pitcher who realized that he was not going to play for the St. Louis Cardinals; through a stellar career in the Air Force; and then finally again realizing his dream of playing baseball again.
This story gives us a wonderful look at how kindness and compassion can bridge the gap in sometimes tense racial relations. The author’s story is also one of complete trust in God’s leading and being ready to share God’s Truth at every opportunity. There’s hope and encouragement in this story and I was again strengthened in my faith in trusting God’s leading.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
About the Author:
Lefty is currently an Adjunct Professor in Speech, Motivational Speaker, and MLB Scout. He is also a consultant for a possible movie, “Dreaming of the Majors,” which would be based on Dreaming of the Majors – Living in the Bush. He has two grown children, Amy and Adam. He and his wife Harriett have been married forty-plus years and live in Universal City, Texas.”
More from Lefty
“I wrote my story in order to pass on to my son and daughter what their father experienced in his walk through life as a Christian. I wanted them to understand that if you have the right purpose, surrounded by the right people, you can make a difference if you listen to His guidance. Using a sports platform was perfect for me to share that whatever your dream is as you are growing as a ballplayer and a Christian helps you stand as an example for all who dreamed of playing a sport.
I had no idea the book would relate so well to anyone who dreams their dreams, but more importantly, if it doesn’t turn out the way you thought it would they realize it was God’s plan to put them where they are. People have found that blooming where they you are planted is right where God wants you to make a difference.
My story is one of hope, persistence, never give up attitude, and it encourages all of us to pursue our dreams regardless of the obstacles that stand in our path. But to remember that our Heavenly Father’s spirit has always been with us throughout the journey, wherever it takes us”.
Blog Stops
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 18
Jacquelyn Lynn, November 19
Connie’s History Classroom, November 20
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, November 21
She Lives to Read, November 22
For the Love of Literature, November 23
Artistic Nobody, November 24 (Author Interview)
deb’s book review, November 25
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 26
Texas Book-aholic, November 27
A Reader’s Brain, November 28
janicesbookreviews, November 29
Inklings and notions, November 30
Simple Harvest Reads, December 1 (Author Interview)
To celebrate his tour, Dick is giving away the grand prize package of an autographed Dreaming of the Majors book along with two autographed baseball cards and 1 autographed baseball!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/ee19/dreaming-of-the-majors-celebration-tour-giveaway
