LEBANON, Pa., June 17, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- In life, one just has to "step up to the plate." Sometimes people "strike out" and other times they "hit a home run." That is just the way the game is played, but for people who are not privy to sports terms, this entire form of American communication can seem overwhelming. Jean Henry helps "level the playing field" with her new book, How to Play the Game: American English Sports and Games Idioms (now available through AuthorHouse).
"Sports, gambling and card games are a major part of the American way of life. People in the United States 'work hard and play hard.' Games have captured the American heart and mind; terms associated with play have become associated with work and the way Americans do business," Henry says.
How to Play the Game is a reference guide to the plethora of colorful idioms derived from sports and games. The book is intended to educate anyone not sports savvy to the many terms they may encounter in business meetings or in life in general. For instance, the business term "deal," comes from "card deal," and "pinch hit" or "carry the ball" are sports terms for taking over a task for someone.
How to Play the Game is a detailed reference that is indispensable for those naive about sports or for people who speak English as a second language. Henry collects terms from across a wide array of sports and games, from baseball and basketball to hunting and sailing. Complete with a detailed index, the book lists each term accompanied by its literal definition and the meaning of the expression when used in general conversation.
So, "play your hand right," and get How to Play the Game. Either get on the field or be stuck on the sidelines.
For 28 years, Henry was a teacher and administrator for adult English as a Second Language classes and college English classes. Born in San Francisco, she earned her Master of Education degree from Harvard University. She is now retired and writes poetry, children's stories and occasional articles. How to Play the Game is her first book.
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