No comments about John Britten.

5 comments about Still Kicking: My Journey As the First Woman to Play Division I College Football.

1. My review should probably be discounted because I know Katie, in fact the photo of her kicking the ball is one that I had taken for her. First about Katie, she is not the type of person to seek publicity for herself and she is an extremely honest person, integrity is important to her. I know her motive is to help young women (anyone for that matter) that have big dreams. I also know how hard the entire ordeal has been on her so I think writing the book was a bit of personal therapy for herself.
   
   What I did not know when I bought the book was how well written it was. Katie has a journalism background and it showed as I thought she did a wonderful job of describing her roller coaster experiences. In fact I was a little surprised how well she weaved her story. To me her book told how people in leadership roles can mold an environment. Student athletes at CU are no more good or evil than student athletes at UNM, or anywhere else, but the leadership can make a difference when it comes to what behavior is accepted and prohibited. Leadership creates it's own sub-culture, and the book did a nice job of contrasting two very different sports sub-cultures.



2. THis is a story about a young lady who benefitted from a coach which allowed her on the team despite being the worst kicker on the team (I think his name was Neuheisal) and did not deserve to be there. She became a national figure with Gary Barnett's ill timed comments and then became a New Mexico media element. She obviously was not a good kicker as she was ONLY able to kick ONE extra point in seven years of Div 1 kicking.
   The element that is disturbing is this: If in fact she was molested/raped, she has a CIVIL responsiblity to identify WHO, WHEN, HOW and prosecute the assailant. That would require a court case and potentially ruin her story if in fact it was proven to NOT BE TRUE. In today's society..we all have a responsiblity to report crimes.
   
   This young lady never did anything to speak of in football and should not even have been there. When will men be able to try out for Field Hockey? Why is there a dual standard? Men cannot try out for womens sports; why is the reverse admissable/? Save your $$$ and buy Buffaloed. It is a much better read.



3. Before my review, I've got several problems with the "statements" of the previous reviewer.
   
   First, you didn't read the book. If have difficulty with such, please have someone help you with my comments.
   Second, if you are to do a book review, you ARE supposed to read the book, not simply spew venom.
   Third, I work in the justice system and am aware of the complexities of these types of cases. You obviously are stuck in some time warp where you expect women to follow your idea of set rules for reporting criminal acts, especially those of a sexual nature. Things are not as simple as your agenda indicates.
   
   So let's talk about the book. It is a fine piece of writing. And it answered many behind the scenes questions I had about the situation in Colorado. I was especially interested to see how Ms. Hnida was attacked and smeared BEFORE the infamous press conference by Barnett. It seems to be a common thread in society- attack the victim if they dare speak out.
   
   The book follows a clear path and story line about how Ms Hnida came to the university and tried to achieve her dreams, only to be assaulted verbally and physically. The despair she suffered was painful to read, as it is one seen so often in crime victims- whether it is a crime committed by a stranger or even a family member. It's been my experience that victims often are silent, afraid to speak out and often resort to destructive behaviors. She stayed strong. Then to read about her persistence to push forward was inspiring. The team and coaches of New Mexico who took Ms Hnida onto their squad are to be commended. I would hope their actions are the rule rather than the exception. I especially took offense about the "Texas" comments made by the Colorado coach, by the way.
   
   I would recommend this book for all sports fans, parents, and would be athletes, especially young females. I hope other victims of violence find the courage to come forward. Ms Hnida is a true role model.
   
   Before closing, a few more comments to the previous reviewer. Please read the book before commenting. Its called honesty,something you might learn from Ms Hnida.
   
   And a correction of "facts". Ms. Hnida did not take a scholarship nor hold a scholarship from another player. She was a walk on. It is documented in the book from published news articles by Barnett, who called her the best kicker available in the list of potential walkons. And I'm still trying to figure out the "best friends" on the training staff comments. Players typically do not confide in non players, nor does the training staff participate or observe all that takes place on the field. And the rape took place in the off season. But then again, you would know that if you had read the book.
   
   I find Ms Hnida far from being a "gutless coward". In the world of free speech, you are allowed to call people names like little kids do on the playground...... (even calling Neuheisel a "clown" was VERY mature).
   
   Based on what I read, I'm sure Ms Hnida can handle your type. However, it is the other women who will still be uncomfortable and lack confidence in coming forward when attacked. You have tried to turn back the clock a few centuries. This book moves that clock forward. Kudos to the brave!



4. I first saw Katie Hnidea on television. Since I like books about women and sports, I knew I'd have to read this one. I must admit I was leery. So many stories of harassment fall into the "they done me wrong" whiny genre -- a boring waste of time. Remember Kelly Flinn, the USAF lieutenant who lost her career due to an adulterous affair? Her book did little to help her reputation; she came across as woefully naive.
   
   But Still Kicking really is a football story. From the beginning, it's obvious that Katiei Hnidai is a real trooper. She just wanted to get on a Divison I team and play ball. She loved practices. She was a team player in every sense of the word. And she's used to being a winner: in high school, she played soccer and football, getting crowned Homecoming Queen at halftime, still wearing her shoulder pads.
   
   Katie's a confident, strong woman. She describes growing up in a close, loving family, where her dreams were always supported. Living near Boulder, she wanted to play for U of Colorado. The head coach encouraged her but then took off for another job, leaving her to the not-so-tender mercies of a coach who would be fired following numerous allegations of rape and abuse associated with the players.
   
   Katie really tried to fit in, but she was taken aback by insults, verbal abuse and what might delicately be called inappropriate touching. She came down with mononucleosis her freshman year and remained ill for a good part of her time in Colorado.
   
   Eventually she ended up in New Mexico, a state where I used to live. She was fully accepted by the team and made friends there. She never became a starter and her time on the field was limited. But for a few all-too-brief years, she was an honest-to-goodness football player.
   
   Without making an explicit statement, Katie lets us see how a coach's attitude can influence a team. Her Colorado coach wasn't crazy about women in general and Katie in particular. The New Mexico coach asked bluntly, "Why would there be a problem?" Players picked up their cues accordingly.
   
   So what else could Still Kicking do?
   
   Monday morning quarterbacking gets tricky, on and off the field. When the Colorado head coach left, it's easy to say, "She should have begun visiting other schools." Indeed, Katie considered talking to other universities. And she would have received a warm welcome. But she loved Colorado and didn't want to leave her home state.
   
   As a career consultant, I've seen similar decisions in vastly different environments. "Go where you're wanted" should be the motto of every college applicant and career changer. In my own PhD program, one woman had turned down a generous fellowship to attend a program she felt was more prestigious -- like turning down a lower-ranked university to get a walk-on at a top Division I school. It's a risky strategy that rarely pays off.
   
   But overall Katie comes across as solid and likeable, without an ounce of self-pity. She doesn't make excuses or waste time wishing her life had gone differently. She lets us glimpse life behind-the-scenes of a couple of college football teams, giving us the female perspective (I like her story of sharing a smelly weight room with a bunch of guys).
   
   Perhaps because she's young, she delivers her story with a fresh, energetic, upbeat style that keeps the pages turning. I would have liked to see some more thoughtful discussion: "Looking back, I now see..." The first few chapters are cheery enough for a Walt Disney movie, broken only by her response to the Columbine High School tragedy.
   
   But overall, I'm impressed with Katie's maturity. If she'd attended a university as a member of a women's basketball team, she'd have been guided with mentors. At U of Tennessee, each freshman gets assigned to a "big sister" on the team: it's like a big sorority. Katie had to forge her own path, keeping her own counsel. She was always "on." And she takes the experience in stride, performing like a pro.
   
   Fans of women's sports and anyone interested in the role of women will want to read this book. At the very end we learn that about 2700 girls are playing on high school teams. Inevitably, some of them will sign up for college football.
   
   That's reason enough to read Still Kicking.



5. This is the story of a woman who was the first female player on a Division I college football team. She achieved her dream of making the team at the University of Colorado, but she was nearly destroyed by the sexism, sexual harassment, and eventual sexual assault that she experienced in the now notorious Colorado football program. Hnida eventually transferred to the football program of Rocky Long at the University of New Mexico. In the supporting and accepting UNM football program she became the first woman to play and score in a Division I college football game. Her story not only describes the courageous struggle and triumph of a remarkable young woman, but also illustrates some of the very best, as well as some of the very worst, aspects of college football programs. The seemingly endless reports of coaches and schools condoning sexual harassment and covering up sexual assaults by college athletes can easily give the impression that all athletic programs are bastions of misogyny and sexual abuse. Hnida's description of Coach Long and her teammates at the University of New Mexico reminds us that this is not the case. Much to the contrary, their warm acceptance and unconditional support illustrate all that is good about college athletics.
   
   Katie Inida's story of triumph over multiple adversities should inspire athletes of either sex and in any sport. It should also motivate university presidents and alumni groups to demand that their coaches and their athletic programs meet the standards set by Coach Long and the University of New Mexico.

2 comments about Pippa Funnell: The Autobiography.

1. Pippa offers the reader an insight into her day to day life. I enjoyed reading this book.



2. Pippa Funnell - the autobiography
   
   The equestrian sport of eventing has experienced a great deal of scrutiny, tragedy and change in the past decade. Though much discussion over the past three years has been of the new format changes, the most uncontested feel-good story in the community has been that of Pippa Funnell. Thankfully, Pippa found the time through a very busy 2004 to record some of the details of her journey.
   Remarkably, she tells the story of her life to this moment in time (21 August 2004 -- such that the book could be launched at Burghley) in such a way that it is not just a summary of happenings. She draws you into to her horse crazed youth. She describes the pains of pursuing the life of an athlete - one where both parents are not always pleased with your decisions. She describes the sacrifices - particularly as they relate to family - that are implicit in the life of one seeking to be the best in the world. She details each event in the book with great success. Information is supplied for the reason of understanding - no more, no less, and we are then able to follow the story-line as it unfolds. She displays the uncanny ability to transmit the feeling of her `nerves' into her written text. Fortunately, there is no tidy epilogue - and this is most suitable as her story continues.
   Her account of the equestrian details is most satisfying. She expounds on her development as a rider - both physically and mentally/emotionally. Her insight in to her cross country riding and balance should be duly noted by many. Through her account of her work with Nicky Heath, we all learn of the importance of the mental game. And of course, she tells her tale in a fashion that pays highest respect to the horses that have made her successes possible.
   When we finish her story, we feel satisfied that she has really `left no stone unturned.' We get the sense that things will never truly go `belly up' for Pippa Funnell ever again. Go ahead, read this book, and then shower your horse with praise.

5 comments about Shattered Air: A True Account of Catastrophe and Courage on Yosemite's Half Dome.

1. The author is a very nice man, for whom I heard speak about this book. I too have been at the top of Half Dome. The hike is a challenge in and of itself. There are warning signs as you approach Half Dome's final assent, which states of the perils of lightning. It advises that lightning strikes Half Dome each month of the year. As clouds approach, one has to ask themselves, should I risk this climb?
   
   One needs all of their faculties about them as they climb up the steep ladder needed to reach the summit of Half Dome. Increasing peril of lightning could be a distraction during the climb. The climb is not a time to lose focus in your climb. Others have fallen to their deaths from this climb. These deaths are few, but we all must learn from these events, to manage this risky climb to enjoy the rewards after reaching the top. As Ed Viesturs said, "climbing to the top is optional, getting down is mandatory."
   
   This book discusses the development of these actual characters. These characters bravely discussed candidly discuss with the author as to their lives before the even, post event trauma, and including issues surrounding their recoveries. One of the characters was understandably reluctant, as the book explained.
   
   The book covers the actual event, discusses what went wrong and then chronicles the rescue details of the survivors. Bob Madgic, the author, then addresses what measures could have been done to avoid such a tragedy.
   
   The book discusses how the events molded the lives of the surviving characters involved in the event. Bob Madgic then reviews the safety measures to be adhered to during an electrical storm, while out in the wilderness.
   
   The book leaves the reader with though provoking issues to ponder after the reader has completed the book.
   
   I found the book to be through, objective and a strong reminder how wonderful and dangerous nature can be. It has provide me with better understanding of lightning so that I can be more confident during wilderness travel.
   
   This is a must read for any hiker or adventurer.
   
   Thanks Bob for a wonderful book.



2. As a participant in the rescue, I think Bob did a wonderful job putting this book together. By the time he interviewed me for the book, he knew far more about the events leading up to the incident than I ever did. When the book finally came out, I was so engrossed in the story that I kind of forgot that I was part of it, and when he got to the actual rescue it was like reliving the experience twenty years later.
   
   As a paramedic, you seldom get to hear about the events leading up to a rescue, and even more rarely find out any details about the peoples lives that were involved, and what happened to them weeks and months later. So thanks Bob for giving me a rare opportunity to learn "the rest of the story".
   
   I am quite sure that anyone with a love of the outdoors will find this a very good read.
   
   Bill Bryant
   (the paramedic on the helicopter)



3. What makes a good story? Setting for one thing - and what could more majestic than the Half-Dome gem set into the Yosemite grandeur.
   
   Next come the characters - with their perfections and pimples. Then we want to see their development, if any, and if none, why not. Often when we anticipate how these players will respond to extreme circumstance, we are surprised, disappointed, cheerful, and even angry.
   
   It's an added pleasure if, during our read, we are "let in" on the obscure skills, techniques and passions that drive the action.
   
   But the two major elements of a mesmerizing adventure are converging drama and believability.
   
   In Shattered Air, you can taste the approaching clash of ego and nature and you will suffer in the helplessness atop Half-Dome.
   
   And when you close the covers of this true story, you'll take a deep breath and utter, "Wow."



4. The author tells an excellent tale of sociolocical misfits who play outside and believe they are free and some how superior. But Mother Nature does not suffer fools well and they do get a serious wake up call atop Half Dome - a place they thought they "owned." The people have a beliefe that they belong in the wilderness, but they really move with the wilderness. They do not practice good wilderness habits or manners. They cast a wide shadow as they tramp about. Anybody close enough to witness these travellers must have watched in awe as one does at a car wreck. How bad will this be? The author does explain how bad it gets and it is tragically serious. Where were the back country rangers when these people were out in the wilds? This is a well-written book, but the people made me feel like they disrespected the wilderness and they had some true issues with life. It is a very compelling story. "Keep moving folks. There's nothing here to see." It is an excellent description of the wreck.



5. To put my review in context, I have climbed Half Dome several times, and was a former member of National Ski Patrol, trained and experienced in search and rescue. I have a friend who was killed by lightning in Arizona and was almost struck myself in my back yard, 20 minutes after a storm had ended and the sky had turned clear blue. I am a confirmed hiker and back packer and have back packed in Yosemite and the High Sierra many times. I found this book deeply troubling and at the same time very rewarding. This recounts the story of what happened when foolhardy young people ignored the warnings of the lethal reality of lightning as they approach Half Dome so that they can "dance in the lightning" to prove their manhood. Two are killed and others are severely injured by being struck multiple times by lightning. I was horrified by their wanton disregard not only for their personal safety but also for their disgusting disregard for others. Their actions were offensive in the extreme. Contrast this with the actions of the rescuers! Despite being offended by the vulgar and crude actions of those who were struck by lightning on Half Dome, they recognized the value of human life, no matter how offensive the victims were, and exercise heroic efforts, at immense self sacrifice, to save their lives. I take my hat off to all involved in the rescue but particularly to Linda Crozier for her efforts to save the injured. She stands out as a stunning example of not only the best humanity has to offer but also did a superb job triaging and treating the injured under the most trying circumstances. Linda, God bless you! Thanks also to the pilots of the helicopter who risked landing on top of Half Dome several times as darkness fell to evacuate the injured! What heroes! Anyone reading this book will have a much better understanding of the dangers of lightning and of the inherent risks and difficulties involved in moutain rescues! This book has a lot to teach and will affect almost every reader for the rest of their lives!

4 comments about Where Have All Our Cowboys Gone?.

1. We bought this for my brother for Christmas, but I have to admit several of the biographies were read before it was wrapped. My brother is a die hard cowboy fan. He loved reading the short biographies of where some of the OLD DAYS and NEW players are now. The only thing I wish is that there had been a short biography for TOM LANDRY because to me he is the HEART of the Cowboys.



2. This book was an awesome read. Many interesting short stories about lots of MY childhood heroes. The book took me back in time and also let me catch up on what has happened to so many of the players I grew up with. The successes and failures, the happy stories and the sad. Stories from Hollywood Henderson, Mike Clark, Harvey Martin, Ralph Neely, Roger Staubach, and many more. It is a MUST read for any fan of the Dallas Cowboys!!



3. This has to be the best biological collection of any sports team ever! My father, my brother, my friend, my mother and I - we all thoroughly enjoyed this book. My family often corresponds by way of sharing book reviews and this one quickly made it through the family. My father loved reliving all of his favorite players, my brother read it and loves debating with my father, my friend is just so happy that he can now understand the comparisons given during the telecasts of games today, but my mother and I had the most fun trying to quiz each other. Honestly, a great read for the sports enthusiasts and those crazy few in my family who want to discuss sports in anthropological terms.



4. This book takes you back through the good, bad and ugly days of Dallas Cowboy football. But its not really so much about football, its about the "after football" life of some of our favorite players of the past. Its hard to remember the names of most of the current players, but many of us long-time fans love to remember the good old days.
   The author has provided a very informative and intriguing look at dozens of Dallas Cowboy players, some of them in the Ring of Honor, some of them more obscure. But each player has an interesting story to tell and the book is a very easy and enjoyable read. Not your typical sports book! I recommend it for both men and women readers.

3 comments about Barefoot Runner: The Life of Marathon Champion Abebe Bikila.

1. I loved it - this book had a much more interesting story, and better style, than almost any other sports book that I have ever read.



2. I was disappointed to find out that this was historical fiction after i read it, but Rambali does a fine job. Besides the fact that he does portray Bikila as a pawn rather than his own man shows the meekness behind one of athletics' greatest champions, and though it may shatter some misconceptions about Bikila, it is a true reflection of the times in which he ran. (I did think however that Rambali could have painted a stronger image of Bikila, to show some more courage instead of constant confusion.)
   When I first started reading it, I did not like it starts off a bit mysteriously and you have to wait a while before you figure out what Rambali's going on about and why he is doing so. I wanted Rambali just to focus on Bikila, but he actually wove together two stories: Bikila's and his coach Omni Niskanen's, all surrounded by the political and other turmoil of the time. I found this annoying because I wanted it to go straight to the running (which is a tall order, of course). But as I read on, I quickly realized the beauty behind this intertwining that results in their glorious meeting and friendship. The political goings-on that are included in the book help to give a reader a sense of wider context, which results in an even greater appreciation for this story and the achievements it documents.
   Rambali does do the story quite well, weaving in many elements that make a riveting story. He splits the story up into short chapters so that it's easy to pick up and put down without losing too much track of the story. One of my favorite details of the book was that Rambali managed to put the two marathons on chapter 26 and 42, something that you don't notice unless you initially notice that the first Olympic marathon is on Chapter 26.
   I agree with the other reviewer that there are definitely embellishments, and it's difficult to separate the true from false. But just like 'Girl with a Pearl Earring', the reader can accept the story as a logical interpretation of history, and in a time of a lack of great running literature, this book was quite a find.



3. This is probably one of the worst books about a champion runner I have ever read.
   
   It has mistakes in times and distances that are so basic that it makes you wonder about trhe accuracy of the rest of the book. Unlike many other similar books that are written as if the author has been privy to the innermost thoughts of the chief protagonists and feature many reconstructed conversations, Paul Rambali gives no information about his sources. The deeper into I got, and the more mistakes that appeared, I began to believe that he has simply made most of it up.
   
   That's OK, except for the fact that the book's presentation -- it is subtitled, "The life of the marathon champion Abebe Bikila" -- gives the impression that what we are getting is a biography. It isn't; it is historical fiction. And, from a running point of view, uninspiring at that.

2 comments about Strength: and How to Obtain It.

1. If the reader overlooks the racial bias which the author has, and it is not very savory, and just remember when it was written, and see it as a exercise book (in fact one of the first exercise books) then there is some good advice in it especially for its time. But I gave the book 3 stars because of the author's bias.



2. The book came without the chart. The book by it's self isn't worth the paper it is written on, nothing but letters about how great the author is. Since I didn"t get the chart I returned the book for a refund.

5 comments about Cinderella Man.

1. Often seeing a ***** film leads me to seek further pleasure in reading the book upon which the film was based. Unfortunately, this book adds little and would more aptly be called a narrative script of the film. - Anita Madsen



2. I really liked the book. It caught my attention alot in the story. I found myself not being able to put the book down. I liked Jim out of all the characters, because he was the fighter, and he showed a lot of determindation and fighting skills. I liked the ending because he came back and beat Baer, who was supposed to "Kill him". It was a good book.



3. A month before the Australian release of 'Cinderella Man', I am
   pleased to announce I have finished the novel. It is a 274 page book full of blood, sweat, and tears. It also throws a spotlight on the daily struggles one faces during tremendous hardship during the Great Depression.
   
   It is a book based on true events that gave hope to millions of Americans when there was none. The story of James J. Braddock, dubbed 'Cinderella Man', for the magic he works so effortlessly
   around his opponents inside the boxing ring.
   
   This novel is well written and easy to read. It could look deceptive at first glance, like Jim Braddock himself, but don't be fooled. There is an incredible amount of hard work gone into each and every page of this book. Beneath the pale exterior of Jim's face, is a novel that is drenched in the hard-worked sweat of men who never give up. The boxing scenes leave the reader with a real whollop that will having you seeing stars. However, none more so then the final fight of the book when Jim Braddock must face Max Baer. Known to have killed two men in the ring.
   
   A novel that shines with a light of its very own. May we all live a blessed, happy life with those we love. If nothing else, this book should teach us that some things are worth fighting for and some things are worth dying for. May we all be wise in knowing the difference between the two and following our hearts through to their conclusion. Triumphant or otherwise, there are always moments in life we will savor over others. There wouldn't be anything more satisfying then saving people from harm. It isn't always easy but we all are capable of a human emotion worth expressing to others. The expression of unconditional love to someone worth saving, and it is that love from someone that is worth cherishing forever.



4. Recently, I stopped at a Walgreens to pick up medication for severe Poison Ivy. While the medication was being assembled, I had some time to kill, so I grabbed Cinderella Man off the book rack and began to read. I couldn't stop! This book is such a good read. I enjoyed every single page.
   
   The story of Jim Braddock is amazing enough, but when a great writer like Marc Cerasini is added to tell the story, well the whole piece of art comes together, creating one of the best novels I have read in a while.
   
   Cerasini manages to bring the reader into the Braddock home, exeriencing the closeness of this family that experienced tragedy and triumph on a roller-coaster type schedule. It was amazing how fast I read through this book. I couldn't get enough information about this inspiring family.
   
   Cinderella Man takes the reader back in time, and in many ways, reminded me of The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. But I find Cerasini's style of writing to be a bit easier; the words seemed to flow right in to one another, and it was hard to pull my eyes off the pages. This book is well worth the $6.99. In fact, it's worth a whole lot more.
   
   
   Buy this book. You'll love it!
   
   See ya next review!



5. This book is based upon the "screenplay" of the movie, not the actual bio of Braddock which was written by Jeremy Schaap. This book includes "Hollywood" versions of what really happened...like the part where Braddock is pan-handling with his hat out at the Garden...that's not the way it really happened. He actually went to visit his manager Joe Gould at the Garden to borrow the $35 from him and him alone...he did not pass a hat around for donations.
   
   The book is well written, but again, it gives the Hollywood take on it and if you really want the factual depiction I recommend Jeremy Schaap's version.
   
   Great story none the less.

5 comments about Peyton Manning: Primed & Ready.

1. This book was not well written and was basically the author praising Peyton in a cringe-worthy fashion. There wasn't any substantive and the book ends with Peyton getting drafted by the Colts. If you're interested in learning about Peyton, get the book he and his father helped write (there's more stuff about his childhood, family relationships, etc.).



2. Hyams has done his homework with this project. He accumulated material from a wealth of contributors including personalities from Newman High School as well as the University of Tennessee.
   However, one can tell, after reading the first chapter, this is Hyams, formerly asst. sports editor of the Knoxville News-Sentinel, first foray into penning a novel length book. The content reads like an extended feature story one would find in the local newspaper's sports section.
   Specifically, the content is choppy and dry. There is no flow, and it is difficult to remain engaged.
   
   If I were to assign a grade to this work, I would give it a D+



3. Hyams does a good job here. I recommend it and "A Tailgater's Guide To SEC Football" for any die-hard SEC fans.
   Buy the book!



4. If you our a Peyton Manning, UT Football or just College Football fan you will like this book. It talks about the recruiting process and what it took to get Peyton to Knoxville and what it took for him to stay.



5. I have always been a huge fan of Peyton Manning and wanted to read about him in a mid sized novel. I found exactly what I was looking for in this book, it told me everything I wanted to know from his upbringing and childhood, to his college football career, to NFL analysis of his ability to make it big in the NFL. For any one who wants to learn about the best quarterback in University of Tennessee history I suggest you read this book

5 comments about Iron Horse: Lou Gehrig in His Time.

1. A well written piece with good research about the life of this great man. Good book for any sports fan.



2. This is the story of Lou in more than just baseball terms, from his humble upbringing, to his marriage and untimely death. The book is full of great stories and insights by someone who has obviously done their homework on the topic. Alot of fact-correcting with regards to the Ruth-Gehrig squabbles, and sets the record straight on aot of issues. It is not a "pageturner", but I came away feeling like I learned a great deal about a baseball legend I thought I knew alot about.



3. Iron Horse: Lou Gehrig In His Time charts the life and accomplishments of a truly legendary ball player, plus author Ray Robinson provides the reader with a wealth of background details on the era of baseball through the Depression years. Most of all, it's a recreation of the man who played over two thousand consecutive games before he was diagnosed with the fatal disease named after him. A lively writing style blends history and biography, setting the times and baseball events for newcomers to the sport and providing a vivid account of a legend. Highly recommended: even non-baseball readers will find it engrossing.



4. Lou Gehrig is a baseball legend. He played on the dynastic New York Yankees teams of the 1920s and 1930s alongside Babe Ruth. He had a .340 lifetime batting average and 493 career home runs. He set a record of 2,130 consecutive games played, a record that stood for decades. And he died of ALS in 1941 at age 38, a disease that now bears his name in the recollections of most Americans. His story, with proper dramatic license, was portrayed in the classic baseball movie, "The Pride of the Yankees," with Gary Cooper as Gehrig in what many consider the actor's greatest performance.
   
   Ray Robinson, a sports journalist and editor, tells this story in "Iron Horse: Lou Gehrig and His Time." It is a book very much in the genre of many other conventional sports biographies. It is a serviceable biography at best, and far from great. In it we learn about one of the greatest stars of major league baseball in the pre-World War II era. If you want a basic introduction to the life and career of Lou Gehrig this book is fine. If you want a well-researched, thoughtful, and sophisticated biography of the Yankee great go elsewhere. This work is very much a "once over lightly" treatment of a person who deserves better.



5. In "Iron Horse", Ray Robinson gives the reader an introduction to the Lou Gehrig persona. More than a list of records and triumphs of the baseball star, we meet the human being behind the records. I always had the impression that Gehrig was a good man, whereas Babe Ruth was only a good baseball player. This book confirms that impression.
   
   Growing up the son of German immigrants, Gehrig had the disadvantage of being something of an outsider in his own world. Baseball was just one avenue he traveled in his efforts to advance himself. Various jobs and Columbia University were other options pursued by Lou. His parents discouraged him from playing a game which they did not understand. When Lou had to choose between Columbia University and baseball, his parents urged the University, while a professor recommended baseball. Going to work every day was not extraordinary for Lou. That was how his parents raised him.
   
   In his chosen trade, Lou achieved excellence and attention wherever he played. Lou lived the thrill of playing baseball, and as a Yankee to boot! Lou always considered himself the luckiest man alive, even as he lived in the shadow of two giants, Babe Ruth at the start of his career, and Joe DiMaggio toward the end. Through it all, Lou considered himself a lucky man.
   
   Robinson leads the reader through a character study of his boyhood hero. We see Lou's relationships with his loving parents who could never understand the stage on which he strode. His wife, who gave him joy while suffering his mother's resentment, would be his solace in his illness. His relationships with his team mates, particularly Babe Ruth, get much attention. In this book we see Gehrig as a man not only driven by passions and wants, but guided by a sense of right and wrong. He was the moral compass of the Yankees. This trait prevented him from ever being the close friend of Ruth with whom he is so commonly associated in the public mind.
   
   Driven, perhaps, by contemporary interests, Lou's earnings are frequently reported. We are brought to understand that even a star of Gehrig's luminance earned a large salary, but still needed to work when he retired. Lou found post baseball employment in a department of the city in which he grew up, achieved stardom and gradually deteriorated and died.
   
   The illness of the only patient to give his name to a disease forms much of the latter sections of the book. Robinson tries to give an accurate report of how the disease affected Lou without over exaggerating its effects. We travel with Lou throughout his slump, ending of the streak and his gradual deterioration. At the end we have seen all 37 years of his remarkable and admirable life.
   
   Although the reader is introduced to the persona of Lou Gehrig, there is plenty of baseball too. This is an excellent book for any baseball fan with a desire to into the soul of one of baseball's most noble knights.