Work is progressing sloooowly on the new book, but these two guys might provide some inspiration:

BED LIST: LUKE WILSON

I’m solidly in the tall, dark, and handsome camp. If they’re tall, dark, handsome, and have great smiles and brains, I’m a goner. Luke Wilson hits the mark on all counts. Athletic? Check (track and football). Tall? Check. Dark and handsome? See above. Quirky smile, interesting taste (what other actor do you know, besides brother Owen, the “Butterscotch Stallion,” who can go from The Royal Tenenbaums to Old School and be believable in both?). As a bonus, he’s a Southern boy–Texas born and bred. Yep, I’m a goner.

DINNER LIST: SPARKY ANDERSON

Forgive the ancient photo, but this is how I picture Sparky Anderson: in a Reds uniform. The skipper who guided my beloved Reds to back-to-back series wins is one of the best in baseball ever. My latest book has a baseball theme, so remembering the Reds’ glory days (the Series in ’90 was sweet–er–a sweep) is easy to do. If I got lucky enough to choose a Hall of Famer as a dinner guest, I’d have to go with Sparky. Wonder if it’s just coincidence that I use that nickname for DH?