5 comments about Pride and Pinstripes: The Yankees, Mets, and Surviving Life's Challenges.

1. PRIDE AND PINSTRIPES IS ABOUT THE LIFE AND CAREER OF FORMER YANKEE GREAT MEL STOTTLEMYRE. MEL OFFERS THE READER ALOT IN THIS WELL WRITTEN AND INTERESTING BOOK. FROM HIS LIFE AS A YANKEE PITCHER, DEATH OF HIS YOUNG SON, CAREER WITH THE METS AND YANKEES AS A PITCHING COACH TO HIS LIFE THREATENING ORDEAL WITH CANCER HE KEPT THIS READER TOTALLY RIVOTED TO THIS GREAT BOOK. MEL WAS A GREAT PITCHER AND DESERVES TO BE IN THE HALL OF FAME. I ALSO ENJOYED HIS TIMES WITH DWIGHT GOODEN, JOE TORRE AND THE BOSS. AND AN ADDED BONUS IS HIS OPINION OF THE BEST STARTERS AND RELIEFERS HE HAS COACHED OVER THE YEARS WHICH IS AT THE VERY END OF THIS MUST READ FOR ALL BASEBALL FANS. OVERALL A GREAT CHOICE TO READ.



2. I really enjoyed this book. I was born a Yankees fan just as the Yankees began their decline and the only really quality player they had was Mel. So reading about his career, and family life just help me love him even more.
   
   And then hearing him talk about working with all the great pitchers he has coached. From the father-son relationship with Doc Gooden to the flakey David Wells to Roger Clemens, Andy Pettite, Mike Mussina and on and on and on. And of course, he coached and watch mature my favorite Yankee player today - the great Mariano Rivera.
   
   But with all the highlights, he shares the tough times of his life; from losing a child to Joe Torre's cancer to his own fight with cancer.
   
   And of course, I can't help but picturing Mel Stottlemyre watching a World Series game in the clubhouse with George Steinbrenner eating burgers when Mel was too sick to be out in the dugout. So, George can have a human side.
   
   Conclusion - a must for any Yankee fan and a good read for any baseball fan.



3. A great read for any baseball fan and especially true-blue Yankees fans. Mel's remembrances of the great pitchers he's coached and his relationship with George Steinbrenner were especially interesting. I do wish Mel had written more about his pitching career with the Yankees. He had some great years and great games that I wish he'd told us more about. He also got to play with some of the greatest Yankees of all time. Mel had the misfortune of joining the Yankees just when they started declining, but he still had a great career. I'll always remember skipping junior high school (with my parents' permission!) to watch Mel on TV in the 1964 World Series. Thanks for the memories and thanks for the book, Mel. You're a Hall of Famer in my book.



4. A great book with rich history about a time of trouble for the Yankees. Easy smooth reading that keeps you involved with the story. A must read for any Yankee fan or any true baseball fan.



5. This is a super baseball book. I have always been a big Mel Stottlemeyer fan. He was the last of the old Yankees from the 1964 pennant winner, and had he played with better teams after that first great rookie season gawd only knows how many games Mel would have won. It deals with his playing and coaching days and the quack medical treatments he received from the then Yankee team physician. I only wish he would have devoted a lot more pages to the years between 65-and 1972 and some of the great games he pitched--the 1-0 two hitter versus AL MVP Vida Blue and Oakland, the 1969 and 1970 All Star Game. Not enough about your playing days Mel during the Horace Clarke/Jake Gibbs/Ron Bloomberg era is my only criticicism. All in all, a super book.

5 comments about American Miler: The Life and Times of Glenn Cunningham.

1. To understand Glenn Cunningham, one must understand more than the runner and the author does just that in his moving account of a life like no other. Not content with just feeding us events and stats from a bygone era when Glenn dominated the oval for a decade, the author over the life of the book layers the philosophy and personality of a truly great soul whose life's work arguably began after his spikes were hung up. While I was amazed at Cunningham's struggle to overcome his crippling childhood tragedy (and in the process become an icon of inspiration for a Depression era population strongly craving a hero), I was moved by his fervent desire to help troubled children on his ranch. In an era of millionaire narcissists who crave the pleasure and fame offered by their craft, Glenn stands out as a humble giant, eschewing money for meaning, and in the process living a life that was both singular and unforgettable. Not just another running book. Be prepared to meet a most noble character who tackled life on his own terms and who defined what it meant to be a tough and sensitive man.



2. Cunningham's perseverance, achievements, and conscientiousness are extraordinary, but the writing is average, and the story bogs down as it chronicles Cunningham's career race-by-race in repetitive detail. As a runner, I tend to enjoy race accounts, but here they lose their drama after awhile--the reader has little reason to care about the outcome of yet another low-stakes event featuring (often) the same participants as previous races. Unfortunately, the races are the most exciting part of the text throughout much of the book, so it gets just plain boring. I might recommend skimming it to get a sense of who Cunningham was, but personally I wouldn't spend any money on this book.



3. Exactly what an online retailer should be. Prompt, well packaged and good value.



4. The true story of the incomparable Glenn Cunningham is one full of extraordinary perserverance and determination. Dr. Keill does a remarkably adept job of creating the world in which Mr. Cunningham grew up. This is the story of a boy so severely burned in a school house fire that doctors feared he would never walk again (his older brother died as a result of his burns in the same fire). He regains his ability to walk and run. His family suffers through depression era Kansas farm life and Glenn never gives up his dream of an education. His quest to become a world class runner is truly inspiring. The life he carves for himself after his running career ends is even more remarkable. GLENN CUNNINGHAM IS A TRUE AMERICAN HERO. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!



5. This book is well written and interesting. As a high school teacher I will use it to encourage students to make/reach goals.

5 comments about The Rock Says....

1. I love the Rock as that character he created himself, and Dwyane Johnson who has definitely crossed over as from wrestler to decent actor. However the book is good but it is not great as I hoped. Too much going in and out of character, at first it is hilarious...But after a few several times it is hard to take him serious and just confusing. If there is a great book to read from wrestlers, read Triple H's approach to a better body and Ric Flair's book. They are upfront real life stories and opinions that are genuine. I loved the Rock Says for the first few chapters and for the comedy he put into it..But bouncing around back and forth from character back to Dwayne Johnson just seemed Immature and had me lost.



2. I enjoyed reading this book that I bought for someone else. I don't usually read biographies but The Rock managed to elevate WWF/WWE in the too brief minute-long appearances he made before he went on to make THE MUMMY movies. It's no surprise that he was so attractive onscreen that he was soon offered his own starring role in THE SCORPION KING. He's so hilarious. I hope he ends up in everything including Xmen and DC films.



3. Bill Goldberg, you musclehead, this is how
   it's done! Former CFL Lineman and Wrestler
   Dwayne Johnson, black, Hawai'ian-Samoan, is
   one of the up-and-coming action screen heroes
   that has made it. I can't wait to see his
   movie about King Kamehameha, when it gets done.
   
   Johnson, unlike Goldberg, is grateful for eve-
   rything he's achieved and not being selfish
   like Bill, who it's all about him, is giving
   back. Also, unlike Goldberg, his movie roles
   are getting better! Way to go Dwayne!



4. Good god, where do I begin? This book is awful. Between reading about his boring college days, his being handed a wrestling contract because of his family, and his attempts at being funny I actually feel stupid for hanging with this travesty until the end. To make matters worse, he starts writing in character and to call it annoying would be like calling world war II a minor scuffle. If you value your time, money, and sanity, just move along.



5. This is one of da best wrestling books that I've ever read.This book talks about The Rock aka Dwayne Johnson growing up as an average kid with his samoan mom and african american dad.He develops a passion for wrestling at a young age.Then it talks about the Rock in middle school where he was ganged and beat up by a bunch of different guys until one day his dad came and they flew off and the Rock gave them a beating and offered to fight any of them one on one.Then the book just jumps around a little bit it talks about how he had sex at 14teen with an 17 year old chick(I give the Rock his props for laying down another girl.....in the grass too),how he met his wife at an early age(she is 3 years older than him),when he played football for the CFL(Canadian Football League)but was cut about a year later after an back injury.Then when he joined the WWF in 1996 as Rocky Mavia(a combination of his Dad's first name in wrestling and his granddads last name in wrestling)and when he got booed every day during the next couple of months even though he was a good guy.Then when he left and made his heel return in late August of 1997 as The Rock and joined The Nation.Then its pretty much The Rock speaking in 3rd person as The Rock after that and he briefly touches on Owens passing and well thats bout it!

2 comments about Shooting the Pistol: Courtside Photos of Pete Maravich at LSU.

1. Students today at LSU call the Pete Maravich Assembly Center the P-MAC. I can't stand to hear that. If they read this book, they might give the building the devotion it deserves. "Shooting the Pistol" is a clever name and the cover of this book and its design are also clever. I was expecting only pictures, but was amazed at the amount of copy that went along with the games corresponding to the photos. Pete is shown in all kinds of situations and the descriptions are amazing. This will make a great Father's Day gift.



2. This is an excellent recounting of Pete Maravich's playing days at LSU from the perspective of a court side photographer/journalist. Well written with wonderful pictures. A must have for basketball and sports history fans!

5 comments about I Ain't Got Time to Bleed: Reworking the Body Politic from the Bottom Up.

1. Jesse Ventura has had an interesting life, and he wants to tell you about it. He has been a US Navy SEAL, a professional wrestler, and surprisingly, a Governor of Minnesota.
   
   Ventura is a six feet four inches tall and has been an athlete for a long time. He seems to be physically imposing. However his autobiography makes him seem like an intellectual light weight. He became Governor as part of the Reform party. Ross Perot had caused a surge of interest in an alternative to the Democrats and Republicans.
   
   Despite having served as a Governor he offers us few political insights. We learn that there are too many laws, and that people need to be responsible for themselves. I don't think we needed Jesse for that. You would think a political outsider might be able to offer some fresh perspective. The only thing I found surprising about the book is that Ventura seems astonished by gotcha journalism. What did he expect?
   
   I was hoping for more. In the end there is nothing much to the book.



2. Jesse the Body had an unconventional career before being a politician, so he's able to take risks in disclosing his background and ideas in a manner very refreshing in today's political arena. Jesse starts with his background in the Navy, moves on to his life as a wrestler, and lastly the motivation behind his entrance into politics. The pop-autobiography shows a few more warts than most in the genre, perhaps due to Ventura's security with his persona and life. All in all it's a very fun ride!



3. The Jesse Ventura story is an example of the American Dream where an average man can push himself into places that he never would have thought that he would go.
   
   Ventura was a Navy SEAL in Vietnam, then became a professional wrestler, wrestling commentator, radio host, Mayor and then Governor of Minneapolis.
   
   Ventura writes pretty well and tells it the way he thinks it is (which is ok, everyone should have an opinion).
   
   Perhaps the only point that I would like to make is that it appears a very political book - not as in discussing politics (from which he makes some good points) but the rhetoric about not running for President. He mentions it a few times throughout the book, almost as if he wants us to think about him in the role and to start to generate support for the White House bid. It just seemed to me to be a little self-serving. That is a minor point though and could be just my imagination.
   
   All in all, a readable book and worth the time.



4. This work is written in a simple and uncomplicated conversational
   style. The author discusses the desirability of raising money
   modestly and the judicious use of television time in campaigning.
   Governor Ventura is in favor of term limits, legal reform,
   low taxes and the consumption tax. The beauty of the consumption
   tax is that it penalizes excess consumption and frivolous
   purchases. The author would have the government refund budget
   surpluses. In addition, people should not be driven off their
   land due to increasing tax valuations. New York's Harlem is
   becoming unaffordable to people who've lived there for generations.
   
   The author urges us to improve public education and basic
   literacy. He asks that we make math/science relevant and
   involve parents in the schooling process. Reduced class size
   and student work-study programs provide additional enhancements to the learning environment. The internet is a tremendous
   tool for learners according to the author.
   
   Ultimately, Americans are pioneers and visionaries. This is our
   basic strength as a country. To continue prospering, we should
   build upon these strengths.



5. The title of Jesse Ventura's memoir is taken from his famous line he delivered in the movie Predator. It is a great mantra for a former Navy SEAL, pro-wrestler, and man-of-the-people elected official. Once you get through the first chapter that explains Ventura's views on the issues of the day, the rest is an absorbing, humorous, truthful, and motivating memoir of a true tough guy who can put his money where his mouth is.
   
   Jesse tells all in this memoir. When he was a young man, he worked hard, and played hard. Drinking and sex are included here. My eyebrows went up a few times. It is clear he is not covering anything up in order to look squeaky clean.
   
   Anyone who reads this book will wish there were a million more Jesses holding political office, instead of the Democrat/Republican factory of career politicians who are addicted to power. I never seriously considered the validity or need for a third political party until I read this book.

No comments about Passing Game: Benny Friedman and the Transformation of Football.

5 comments about The Most Glorious Crown: The Story Of America's Triple Crown Thoroughbreds From Sir Barton To Affirmed.

1. I saw the three races, I'm glad I found the book, us horse people has to stick together.



2. The DVD was great, the book goes into more detail, but overall a great package.



3. We continue to be completely satisfied with the excellent service we receive through Amazon.com and its affiliates. Everything is sent quickly (usually ahead of the estimated delivery date), cleanly, in excellent condition, and exactly as advertised. Thank all those involved with this process.



4. fast service. wonderful to work with. wish we had one more to add to the crown.



5. I bought the initial edition of this book in 1975 and at the time was totally perplexed. How could an author write an entire chapter about Count Fleet and misspell the last name of his jockey every time ("Longdon" instead of "Longden")? And how could an editor not catch this error when the chapter contains three copyrighted charts from Daily Racing Form that have the jockey's name spelled correctly. Flash forward three decades to a new edition of this same book and ... Longden's name is still misspelled every time. Didn't anyone in 30 years tell the author or publisher that the name was misspelled??? This belongs in another book -- "Believe it or Not."

5 comments about Journey of a Hope Merchant: From Apartheid to the Elite World of Solo Yacht Racing.

1. I heard Neal Petersen speak and by the time I got to the table to by his book, he was sold out. I finally orderd on line and it is every bit at moving as his presentation. It truly made me realize that if he can overcome all of the obsticules placed before him, than I don't have any excuses to not overcome my own.



2. "In life there are no barriers - only solutions." Call this positive statement a credo, a code, a slogan or a mantra. It is the one rule that dominates the life of its author, Neal Petersen.
   
   I had the pleasure of being in an audience where Mr. Petersen happened to be the keynote speaker. An author and motivational presenter, he held the attention of all attendees, especially me.
   
   Neal Petersen was born with a physical disability in South Africa during its apartheid years. As a child he was determined to overcome all adversities, a trait that not only guided him through life but also helped him stake his claim as the first black man to race a homemade boat single-handedly around the world.
   
   In his book, "Journey of a Hope Merchant" and recipient of the 2005 National Outdoor Book Award, Mr. Petersen has the reader join him on his journey through life and particularly on this solo journey in the 1998-99 "Around Alone" yacht race. Throughout the book, the reader is gripped with the determination of Mr. Petersen as well as his endurance, ingenuity and particularly his sense of survival.
   
   Right from the book's prologue by his wife, Darlene Kristi-Petersen, one becomes immediately tuned into the reality that Mr. Petersen is a man driven by his dreams. From an impoverished youth to achieving world recognition, two university degrees and author and coauthor of ten books, one can only picture Mr. Petersen as a consummate achiever.
   
   As I write this review, I refrain from telling the story of Mr. Petersen's challenges at sea. That I'll save for the reader, as I will the many other chapters in his life where he continues to tell us the importance of dreaming. The importance he teaches us is that dreams are not simply for dreamers but are the roadmaps to be followed, challenged and achieved.



3. I would not call this a sailing book. Rather it is a story of a crippled boy from Capetown, who found freedom in swimming, diving, and sailing, and had a dream to sail around the world alone in the greatest of all races, inspired by these yachts and racing sailors who visited this port. The Author, who grew up in a middle class neighborhood in South Africa had to endure racism in his struggle to achieve his dream. Along the way, he found many sailors willing to help, and many other people who contributed to his life journey. It will melt you heart to read about the many wonderful people who helped Neal Accomplish this seemingly impoosible goal. It renewed my faith in the best of human nature.
   
   This is the sort of book I'd give a young child for inspiration. It is proof that man can overcome most obstacles with only the most basic of tools--literacy. This is a lesson that should be taught to all children.
   
   Neal makes his living as a motivational speaker. I finished the book, wanting to hear him speak. And I'd like to sail with him.
   
   The book is an easy read. I found myself reading until 3 am and finished it the next day. I give this book 4 stars because it is not the sort of book I would re-read. It is not the sort of book I need to inspire myself. However, a good book to read once and then pass on to your friends.
   
   The was one point in the book where I found myself gravely disappointed. I was saddened to read in Neals account that Brad Van Liew, one of this competitors, accused him of cheating by using his engine. Any competitor has a right to face fair competition and ask for an inquiry. If he proved it false then he should let the matter drop instead of whining about it. He also complained that Van Liew stole his sponsors. Should American sponsors support a non-American? Sounds like sour grapes too me.
   
   The bottom line is Neal's story is inspirational. I hope he continues his public speaking and his sailing. I'd like to meet him and sail with him.



4. This book is an easy, fun, adventurous read that will shift your attitude and belief in the most positive way. Neal has accomplished more most people would dream possible. Yet in reading his story you will start to believe that anything is possible. It has rejuvenated and refocused me. I'm sure it will do the same for you.



5. I read this book non-stop and I had to write a review. By way of full disclosure, I met Neal Petersen on November 3, 2005 and spent five days sailing with him on a passage from Connecticut to Bermuda. That time with him prompted the purchase and reading of this book. He is a fantastic guy with a truly inspiring story. The book recounts Neal's life story and struggle against the odds to reach his dream of racing a sail boat alone around the world. At every turn there are choices. Listen to the naysayers or pursue what appears to be an impossible dream. Throughout the story there are detractors and supporters. This book has drama, adventure, romance, and inspiration. This is a story not only about Neal's adventures sailing, but about how to live life to the fullest. I can't recommend this book highly enough!

5 comments about Let's Get It On: Tough Talk from Boxing's Top Ref and Nevada's Most Outspoken Judge.

1. On page 216, Mills Lane says of his wife, "She knew that I am consumed by my job, referee prizefights as a hobby, and am hardheaded and highly opinionated." Is he ever! And that is what makes this book so refreshing. Here is a man who says we are all responsible for our own actions. Imagine that. Judge Mills Lane and writer Jedwin Smith have combined their experience and talents to give us a glimpse of a human being we see all too rarely: a man of great honor. By the time you finish this book, you will know who puts the grit in integrity.



2. Here's a quick review of Mills Lane's new book "Let's Get It On":

   (Let me cut right to the chase and point out the abundant inaccuracies that I ran across.)

   1-(page 29)- Lane credits Oliver McCall with a First round KO of Lennox Lewis. It was the 2nd round.

   2-(page 97)- Lane states that Bobby Chacon became the Super Flyweight Champ with a 15 round decision over Bazooka Limon. That was Super Featherweight/Jr. Lightweight.

   3-(page 99)- Lane states that the second Livingstone Bramble-Ray Mancini fight was for the Welterweight title. It was the Lightweight title.

   4-(page 101)- Lane states that Iran Barkley "TWICE knocked Thomas Hearns unconscious". Barkley Ko'd Hearns in the first fight, he decisioned him in the second. It should be noted that Barkley did knock Tommy down in the second fight though.

   5-(page 122)- Lane states that the common opponent between Erbito Salavarria and Betulio Gonzales was San Sacristan. It was not. It was Natalio Jimenez. (No, I did not know that one off the top of my head. But guess what? I looked it up. Novel idea.)

   6-(page 172)- Lane states that Octavio Meyran held his ground and his integrity, in the Douglas-Tyson fight, by (Meyran) insisting that he did nothing wrong with regards to the bogus "Long Count" in the 8th round, in which Douglas hit the canvas from a Tyson uppercut. In fact, in a press conference right after a meeting involving Don King and the heads from the WBC & WBA (Suliaman and Mendoza), Meyran said the following: "I don't know why I start my count and make my mistake. Yes, he (Douglas) was down longer than 10 seconds". This followed a comment by Don King stating that the "first knockout obliterates the second one". After that comment King turned directly to Meyran, who then showed the world he had no backbone. Note: Before this "meeting", Meyran defended his actions. After the meeting, it was a different story.

   7-(page 179)- Lane states that Chavez retained his Jr. Welterweight title after his controversial Draw with Pernell Whitaker. The fight was for Whitaker's Welterweight title.

   8-(page 182)- Lane refers to Matt Fleischer, as opposed to Nat Fleischer. Come on now.

   9-(page 189)- In a fight that Lane refereed, he states that Gerry Cooney was knocked down by Larry Holmes in the "third or fourth round". It was the Second round.

   10-(page 246)- In another fight that Lane refereed, he states that "Donald Curry hit Milton McCrory with a tremendous right hand early in the third round and McCrory went down". He goes on to state that Milton was kayoed with another right hand, after he got up. Curry kayoed McCrory in the Second round. And the first knockdown was with a Left Hook.

   11-(picture between 118 & 119)- Lane states Mike Tyson retained his WBC title against Trevor Berbick. Tyson Won the title from Berbick.

   12-(picture between 118 & 119)- Lane states that: "Once he was released from prison, heavyweight contender Mike Tyson had all he could handle from Razor Ruddock,winning a 12-round decision on June 28, 1991. Tyson faced Ruddock BEFORE he went to prison.

   Lane is brutally honest and the book reads like a friendly conversation that you might have with him over a beer and a stogie. He tells it like it is and I find it refreshing to read a book when I know that no punches are being pulled. But Jesus! The inaccuracies fly off the pages like crazy. And I'll guarantee that I didn't even catch all of them.

   I respect Mills and think he is one of the best refs in the business. And I was eagerly anticipating his book. But if I read something that I am familiar with and find the information to be inaccurate, when I read something new, how am I to know if what is said it is true or not?

   As you can probably guess, I am a stickler for detail. The correct information for the "flubs" that I listed, is easily accessible. And the fact that this book was written by a former D.A. and Judge, professions where detail is a critical part of the job, makes these inaccuracies even more infuriating. I find the laziness as it pertains to this book, totally inexcusable. What could have been a very good read, turned out to be very disappointing.

   If it sounds like I'm being too harsh, well, I'm merely echoing the tone of Mills' book. I'm sure he'd find the seemingly half-assed approach to the research done in this book as annoying as I did. I'm just here to point it out to him. He'd do the same to us.




3. Mr. Lane put everything in perspective with his down to Earth angle on life. He lives by what he learned from boxing and the marines. It's an inspiring book and a real kick in the butt! It's a pep talk on life and inside look at the world of boxing. Thank you Mr. Lane.



4. an excellent book from a man whose had a vantage point few in life ever have. what's the saying..."all the worlds a stage." just a phenomenal book. i could not put it down. i read nearly 80 pages at the book store and before i knew it i had been there nearly 1 hour.



5. I was greatly surprised and pleased by what an engaging and interesting book this is. Mills Lane is not just a boxing referee, but a judge in Nevada and a former professional boxer. He is also one of the most outspoken, to-the-point people I've encountered in print or real life in some time. He talks not only about major fights he's officiated, but also about his philosophy, his time in the Marine Corps, his view of being a judge, boxing generally, and his own boxing experiences. This is also something of a "personal motivation/inspiration" book. This is boxing through the eyes of a very insightful, interesting man.

5 comments about The Girls of Summer: The U.S. Women's Soccer Team and How It Changed the World.

1. I loved this book. It told about the history of what made the team and womens soccer so good and fun. If you love soccer and history, you will love this book.



2. Jere Longman's, The Girls of Summer, is by far one of the best non-fiction books I have ever read. I am a huge Womens National Team fan. I am always in search for a great book, depicting the life and success's of the entire team. He coherses through the professional and personal lives of the women that grabbed the hearts of the United States. Their success is revealed in this wonderful book.

   I persoanally, could not put this book down when I purchased it. I finished it in two days, it was just so up-lifting. It's a great motivational book. You always wish you were there to experience the moments that the team lived through. From country to country, trial to trial, this team is very special. If someone would like to know the US history of womens soccer, this is a perfect buy. I could picture myself there, it was detailed and deeply moving. I really enjoyed reading on the players whom fought so hard to gain respect and recognition.

   I'm sure, if we saw the final game against China in 1999, we can all say where we were, and how we reacted. For many of us, such as I, we cried for joy. That game was the turning point in womens sports. And Longman made me remember once again what it was like to watch that game, and see the 90,000+ fans going wild after Brandy Chastain scored the final PK. It is a fantastic book for any soccer fan, man or woman. It is a book to read if you feel you need to be inspired. It's worth the buy.




3. This was an awesome book and the best I've read in a longtime. Everyone should read this regardless of if they play soccer or not.



4. I thought that this was a great book. I enjoyed reading it because my favorite female athletes were the subjects in this book. This book shows the stroggle that athletes go through and the publicity that is always there no matter what.

   This was probably the best book that i ever read because i play soccer and i like to seee wha goes around on the proffesional level. The us womens soccer team has gone trough their ups and downs and this book went through it step by step. I felt as though i know what they were going through because it was so real.

   Mia Hamm is right now the best womens soccer play in the world. She is well know in any ste and country. She has been on adds and verious things to promote the womens soccer team. Others team mates have done the same but none to the level of Mia Hamm. This book shows what she has been through and her own personal struggle to make it as a proffesional athlete.

   Now that i have read this book i have even more respect for the womens national soccer team and all proffesional athletes because i am aware of what they have gone through. I have been able to read about my favorite female athletes and know about their past. I recomend this book to anyone who is a female athlete or loves the game of soccer. It's not just for girls it is great for men to learn about proffesiional athletes.

   alex rothemich




5. Jere Longman has a real hit here. You don't have to love soccer to love this book. Not only does Longman tell of the Womens World Cup win, but of the entire existance of the National team. He discusses subjects that other authors would never dream of touching, such as sexual orientation of the players. He goes on in-depth about that subject along with many others. If you just want a simple and to the point review of WWC '99, than this book is definately not for you, but I would still consider reading it. It brings back the goosebumps all over again. -The book also includes a few biographical chapters on both american players:Brandi Chastain, Mia Hamm, and Michelle Akers, as well as a bio of China's Sun Wen and Gao Hong. And almost every USA player was interviwed for the book