With kids participating in so many activities, I wonder if they have any time to get some friends together and just play. I’m writing a book that explores the cultural importance of pick-up games. I am collecting written narratives about pick-up game experiences that will serve as the basis for the book. Contributors will be acknowledged, but the stories will not be published, only excerpted.

DEADLINE FOR STORIES: June 15, 2005

Narratives include descriptions of your hometown, your neighborhood, the games you would play, the equipment you would use, and especially about your friends and what you gained from these experiences.

Email the narratives to me at rcbsam@comcast.net (write "pick-up games" in the subject line), or visit my online survey at the web address provided below. In either case, please include your age, sex, and zip code.

Please also indicate if you’d be willing to sit down for an interview about your experiences or to take me on a tour of where you played pick up games. If these ideas sound good please make sure to include your name, phone number, and email address. Thanks for your help!