1 comments about Profiles in Polo: The Players Who Changed the Game.

1. Horace Laffaye is to be commended for taking up Chris Ashton's suggestion to compile this book and for drawing together the energies of the leading polo writers from around the world who have contributed profiles to it.
   
   Historical entries on the six identified pioneers of the Game of Kings set the context of the book very effectively, with Roger Chatterton-Newman's contribution on Francis Herbert a delight of depth and detail.
   
   Chris Ashton's tribute to Hanut Singh reminds the reader that "India was the very cradle of the game" and presents an entertaining picture of "the tiger" who played until the age of 72.
   
   The two great Australian players, Bob Skene and Sinclair Hill, are given the prominence they richly deserve, as are the American, Tommy Hitchcock Jr, and Juan Carlos Harriott Jr from Argentina but it is a pity that another Aergentine player, Eduardo "Gordo" Moore, does not have an entry of his own.
   
   Most of the great players are here and so too are those who have ensured that the game continues to be played at the highest level today: Kerry Packer and Gonzalo Pieres, Marcos Uranga, John Oxley, Lord Cowdray, Michael Rattray and Claire Tomlinson, who could arguably be credited with the fact that many more women play polo today than ever before.
   
   As to its content, the book is excellent and should be in the library of every polo enthusiast. Its production, however, lets it down. It is not a cheap book but spelling mistakes (Bob Skene's name is printed as "Skeene" at the top of each page of his entry) and the poor quality of photographic reproduction (particularly the colour plates) diminish its overall quality.

5 comments about Remember This Titan: Lessons Learned from a Celebrated Coach's Journey.

1. In a world saturated with stories overcoming life challenges, Remember This Titan delivers a message unlike any I have read.
   Steve Sullivan's ability to capture the essence of Coach Bill Yoast while weaving in an out of the life narrative is remarkable. He has cleverly captured in words, the essence of a man who made it his life's commitment to make a difference and inspire. Sullivan has beautifully portrayed with drama, insight and humor, the life of a man whose unwavering commitment to others enabled them to prosper- all became better, some became great. Many went on to positively impact on other's lives and for this, Sullivan's book is a brilliant reminder that the `Domino Effect' can be a powerful force.
   Although Coach Bill Yoast is in the twilight of his journey, Remember This Titan and the wisdom it delivers is a legacy that will live forever.



2. A friend sent me the book as gift. She said it would change my life. She was right. It took me on a glorious trip. In a world filled with deceit, fear, anger and lost people Remember This Titan shows how one man can make a differance. Remember This Titan is a story that delivers integrity and courage in abundance. Coach Bill Yoast is now my hero. Remember This Titan is triumph and should be required reading for anyone looking to navigate life with a sense of purpose. Five Stars is not enough.



3. This is a great motivational and uplifting story. A must read for teens and parents alike!!



4. Remember This Titan, is a wonderful accounting of Bill Yoast's life, ups and downs, the expected and the unexpected. It is the story of a man who LIVED decency long before it was fashionable. The success of the team, both on the field and in their interpersonal relationships, was nurtured by the presence of this fine teacher, leader and coach. In a time when schools go out of their way to emphasize that character counts, this is a fine, enjoyable book to share with the children/students in your life. There are so many valuable lessons, from Mary's impact on Coach Yoast to the profound influence of Raymond Tetfeller on Yoast's young life. This book is beautifully written. It flows with astonishing honesty from humor to heart-wrenching pain. Sullivan has an obvious knowledge, understanding and respect for Coach Yoast. As if all of the above isn't enough, there are action plans and lists of invaluable facts in the back. Remember This Titan is a great read which has had a lasting impact on me. p.s. I had a student at the end of the year say, "Hey, Ms. Stewart are YOU reading a football book, cool!" Enjoy.



5. "Remember This Titan" is an excellent story of an American hero. In a time when personal glory is mainstream, Bill Yoast was not only an inspiration to a community but to the nation as well. Absorbing every word of a simply beautiful story of a no-nonsense man, I learned that, "In navigating life, the best lessons are learned when the riding gets rough". Not only do I believe in the philosophy of life according to Coach Yoast but our entire youth organization and metro area are looking forward to having Mr. Sullivan and Coach Yoast motivate our young men for our 2006 football season. I look forward to meeting Coach Bill Yoast and Steve Sullivan in August, (www.greenmountainfootball.org) and showing them that the TITAN theory exists in Colorado. Steve Sullivan along with Bill Yoast are truly the cornerstone of INSPIRATION.

No comments about Born to Win: The Authorized Biography of Althea Gibson.

4 comments about Through the Eyes of a Champion.

1. "Through the Eyes of a Champion" is a must read for all who were fortunate enough to watch Burls play football. It is such an inspiring biography, though, that it is a wonderful book for anyone to read. I was barely able to put the book down once I started reading it, and I finished reading it in a couple of days. Just be sure you have a box of tissues handy if you are the least bit prone to tears.

   Like Brandon, one of my sons will be an invited walk on to the Razorback football team this fall. If he works 75% as hard and accomplishes half as much, I will be the proudest Mom in the world! The book clearly demonstrates how far a person can go with the right attitude, total commitment and the hard work it takes to accomplish your goal.

   The world, and especially the state of Arkansas, are better because of this young man who set a an impressive example that each of us can aspire to follow.




2. Don't think this is a book for Arkansas Razorback fans alone. This story walks way beyond the Arkansas border and outside the sports arena into the worlds of mass appeal. Sports lovers, not known for being your more veracious readers, will be surprised when the book's end comes easily and quickly. Young people will be inspired by the story of hard work and dedication. Mothers and grandmothers will be touched by the family relationships portrayed so well. No one will close the final chapter without a box of kleenex handy.
   Read this book. As you see life through the eyes of a champion, life will never look the same again!



3. This book is a very touching story of a young man who showed that anything can be acheived with hard work and determination, even for those who dont necessarily "fit-in" with the popular crowd. And it also shows how fragile and how quickly life can be taken away from us. Also, for anyone who is familiar with Arkansas Razorback football, it would be an especially good read.

   Brandon Burlsworth came from humble beginnings, born and raised by his mother in the small town of Harrison, Arkansas. A shy, quirky, kid who wasn't the most coordinated nor the most popular boy in school, Brandon relied on his faith and determination to prove everyone wrong. He worked his way into becoming an All-State high-school football player. Wanting to become a Razorback all his life but not getting a scholarship, Brandon refused other offers and walked-on at the University of Arkansas, later earning himself a starting role for 3 years. At the end of his collegiate carrer, Brandon became an All-American lineman and the only football player in Arkansas history to earn a Bachelors and Masters degrees before they finished playing football. Being drafted by the Indianapolis Colts of the NFL, Brandon was tragically killed in an auto accident on his way to church, just a few days after being drafted.

   It does have many Christian references and messages as well.




4. I am fortunate to have gone to school with Brandon Burlsworth for 4 years. Although, I was never a close friend, I watched all the Razorback football games his senior year, just to see him. We were all fascinated watching him play. I wanted to ask him for an autograph, but always thought he might think it was stupid for a classmate to ask for one. After reading this wonderfully written book about his life, I realize, it was me who lost out never going up to talk to him. I cannot say enough good things about this book and how it just grabbed my heart and kept me reading. After reading this, it may change your life and your thoughts.. Brandon was so well loved around here in Harrison, and around the world. We know he is in Heaven looking down on us. Everyone should have this book to read when they are down. Brandon brought meaning to life... and you will see that in this book.

5 comments about Making Airwaves: 60+ Years at Milo's Microphone.

1. I have long suspected that Milo Hamilton was a small-minded, egotistical jackass. Here we have a couple hundred pages of confirmation. The consummate loser who made good. This is the land of opportunity.



2. Message to Milo: maybe all those teams that fired you were trying to tell you something. This book reeks with self-pity and self-promotion. Having endured Milo's tenure with the Braves, I'm not surprised at the tone of this book. Milo couldn't get along with Hank Aaron, who never had an unkind word for anyone. But apparently Milo felt Hank's little home run chase was overshadowing....Milo. If he's still working, I'm glad it's with the Astros, where he has limited influence and exposure.



3. I loved to listen to Milo when he did the White Sox games on WCFL in the early 60s. I enjoyed Milo when he was interviewed by Roy Firestone on the old Mazda Sports Look on ESPN back in the late 80s/early 90s.
   
   I agree with a previous reviewer that it seems like a book written by a grumpy old man. I might add that it's a pretty self-indulging book. I read the reviews before I got the book from the library, and only made a special request because I loved Milo hoping that I would enjoy the book. Although writing the book for Milo might have been therapy for him, Milo should have then thrown it out. Milo's thoughts would have been better left unsaid. I might add that I'm not a fan of Harry Carey & other announcers that he trashed in the book. Actually there aren't many people that Milo didn't trash.



4. Overall, a very interesting read. While I wish he wrote a little more about the players (especially the chapter about his all-time team) and not place too much weight on the behind-the-scene stuff, I liked reading about his experiences with the HOF broadcasters, especially about Bob Elson and Jack Brickhouse. These are big names I wasn't too familiar with, so it was really nice to get an account of how they were like back then.



5. Having grown up listening to Milo Hamilton from his White Sox days to the present day with the Astros made this an interesting book. His interaction with other broadcasters, especially Harry Carey, is good along with his memories of past players and stadiums. If you are a fan of baseball and broadcasting I would recommend this book.

4 comments about Put Him In, Coach!: A Mother's All-Star Memoir.

1. This book is fabulous! i strongly advise you read this! it is a mother-kids bond like no other! it just touched my heart! and i know martha payne personnally, we are very close! anyway, this book is soo AMAZING! you should definately read this for the crisp writing and SPECTACULAR baseball..(and gymnastics/soccer)!!!!!!



2. In "Put Him in Coach" every word has been carefully weighed, every line polished. I'm not a fan of baseball, but I am a fan of fine writing and devoted mothers. Sam is a character you won't soon forget, and Martha Payne is nothing short of legendary. These characters breathe.



3. A book that just about anyone (mothers, fathers, coaches, grandparents) who has ever spent a Saturday in April sweating or shivering on a metal bleacher will relate to. The author's observations and experiences as an "over-the-top" little league mom are often hilarious and always honest. Her love for her son and family is evident on every page, and the book is a refreshing look at a real American family that most of us will recognize and appreciate. I can't wait to give this book as a gift to all of the coaches and little league parents in my life!



4. Martha Payne hit a home run with this book. The tongue-in-cheek approach to the world of little league through the eyes of a competitive mother blinded by love rings crystal clear to anyone who's ever had a child in sports, been a child in sports, or known a child in sports. Mrs. Payne is vulnerable, hysterical, and fresh. Her dry wit compliments the underlying tenderness of a devoted mother's heart to create an endearing glimpse into the uncharted waters of young parenthood. I sniggered, smiled, and laughed out loud at the perceptions and predicaments played out between the pages of this book. I only wish it had gone into extra innings.

5 comments about Whirlwind: The Godfather of Black Tennis.

1. Much Props to Dr.Robert walter Johnson for paving the way which isn't talked about nearly enough. Doug Smith observed and learned from Dr Johnson as Dr Johnson taught on the court and off the court lessons on how to survive and also how to stay classy. from Althea Gibson,Arthur Ashe and other players Dr.Johnson taught them and paved the way. He was a Pioneer and a trailblazer.this is a Book that is a incredible journey and a book that will make you think and reflect. a must have book.



2. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is one that every well-to-do African American should read. It details how those who had opened their doors to help others who couldn't afford to. How building and making available to those promising few kids something they could strive for. We need more like whirlwind today.



3. This book was such a great breath of fresh air! It is so good to read about African-American accomplishments, but it is even better to find out how it began. We always hear about the tennis greats of today, like the Williams' sisters but what about those African-Americans who paved the way. Doug Smith did an excellent job of presenting Dr. Johnson's story. I loved it!



4. Among the common qualities of world-changing people, you'll find passion, discipline, and an unrelenting determination to succeed. Dr. Robert Walter Johnson is no exception. It wasn't enough for Johnson to be a legendary college running back-thus the nickname `Whirlwind'--and a practicing medical doctor. He took his backyard pastime of tennis and built doors for the African American community into an exclusionary sport, shepherding the early tennis careers of greats such as Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe. Noted tennis writer Doug Smith delivers a gripping story of the life and times of this superb athlete, mentor, and visionary.



5. "Whirlwind" portrays the triumphs and travails of an unsung pioneer for racial justice in the mostly white tennis world before and after Althea Gibson broke the color barrier in 1950.
   Doug Smith, who attended the tennis program conducted by Dr. Robert Walter Johnson, chronicles how Arthur Ashe, Althea Gibson and other promising young African-American players learned lessons about ethics and etiquette as well as strokes and strategy. Dr. Johnson, while an altruist, was no saint, particularly in his family life, and his personal adventures and misadventures are part of what makes this biography so fascinating. Sports fans and history lovers will especially appreciate this poignant story. I highly recommend it.

1 comments about Out of the Shadows: A Biographical History of African American Athletes.

1. Thirteen original essays provide an in-depth biographical focus on both famous and lesser-known Afro-American athletes from the 19th century to modern times, and is a key pick for college-level collections specializing in Afro-American studies or sports history. Here are surveys that link athletic endeavors to social issues and politics, examining the effects of segregation on ambition and achievement. Contributors are top sports history writers and their essays examine the close connections between race, prejudice, and sport.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch

No comments about Ali in Action: The Man, The Moves, The Mouth.

5 comments about Fearless on Everest: The Quest for Sandy Irvine.

1. Frequently overshadowed by his mentor and climbing partner, George Mallory, Sandy Irvine is long overdue a biography worthy of his accomplishments. I can understand the frustration that people have with encountering someone not driven by ego or the incessant need to belittle others. In that respect perhaps Sandy is a bit too normal by modern standards and can be accused of being a little too nice. Nonetheless in his short life he still managed to accomplish some very great things and this book does a wonderful job of highlighting those moments. It is not perhaps all one could hope for in a study of the 1924 Everest Expedition but then no other book has set a suitably high standard to be considered authoritative. As a collection of data which many overlook this has to be considered a must read for the Everest fanatic.



2. I'm afraid I have to disagree with other reviewers of this book. The writing is often awkward and grammatically challenged (to use a current euphemism). And Sandy Irvine comes across as a rather ordinary young man, self centered, good at sports, and good with his hands, but lacking in any sort of intellectual sophistication. It was this very sophisitcation and intellectualism that made Mallory the interesting figure he remains. Had Mallory been a mere hearty, he would have far less interesting. In contrast to Mallory, Irvine strikes one as eactly what this biography tries to convince one he was not, i.e., a follower who had little idea of what Mallory was leading him into.

   Because of Irvine's commoness and the bad writing (Where oh where was an editor!?), this is hardly worth the time, and certainly not worth the money.




3. This is a very well-written and researched book. It provides an introspective and analytical look into the man of mystery on the expedition...Sandy Irvine. The photos, family anecdotes, and treasure trove of memorabilia recently discovered provided a full and satisfying read. You can't know all about the 1924 expedition until you know about what made Sandy Irvine tick.



4. Fearless On Everest: The Quest For Sandy Irvine is an intensely personal, candid, and informative account of the life of a young man who died at the age of 22 while on an expedition to climb Mt. Everest. Written with a narrative smoothness that completely engages the reader's attention, biographer and Irvine family member Julie Summers includes newly discovered letters and photographs and specifically addresses a long-debated question in mountaineering circles: Why did George Leigh Mallory choose the young, less-experienced Andrew Irvine as his partner on so hazardous an enterprise? Also very highly recommended for mountaineering enthusiasts are three related titles from Mountaineers Books addresses the doomed Mallory-Irvine expedition: Ghosts Of Everest: The Search For Mallory & Irvine (699-5, $.....); The Mystery Of Mallory & Irvine: Fully Revised Edition (726-6, $.....); The Wildest Dream: The Biography Of George Mallory (741-X, $......).



5. Julie Summers sensitive telling of the story of Sandy Irvine is not only a great read, but is written with intelligence, grace and wit. Irvine's personality looms large in the book, and the reader is easily captivated by his infectious personality. Explorer, lover, adventurer, journalist -- one can easily imagine Summer's Irvine on the silver sceen, portrayed by Harrison Ford or Mel Gibson. This wonderful book will be enjoyed by climbers, mountaineers, armchair explorers and laypeople alike. A real tour de force, the only question that arises after reading is: who is going to option it, and when is the movie coming out?