Cinderella Man: James Braddock, Max Baer, and the Greatest Upset in Boxing History

Book Description

Lost in the annals of boxing is the sport's true Cinderella story. James J. Braddock, dubbed "Cinderella Man" by Damon Runyon, was a once promising light heavyweight for whom a string of losses in the ring and a broken right hand happened to coincide with the Great Crash of 1929. With one good hand, Braddock was forced to labor on the docks of Hoboken. Only his manager, Joe Gould, still believed in him, finding fights for Braddock to help feed his wife and children. The diminutive, loquacious Jew and the burly, quiet Irishman made one of boxing's oddest couples, but together they staged the greatest comeback in fighting history. In twelve months Braddock went from the relief rolls to face heavyweight champion Max Baer, the Livermore Butcher Boy, renowned for having allegedly killed two men in the ring. A charismatic, natural talent and in every way Braddock's foil, Baer was a towering opponent, a Jew from the West Coast who was famously brash and made great copy both in and out of the ring. A ten-to-one underdog, Braddock carried the hopes and dreams of the working class on his shoulders. And when boxing was the biggest sport in the world, when the heavyweight champion was the biggest star in the world, his unlikely upset made Braddock the most popular champion boxing had ever seen. Against the gritty backdrop of the Depression, Cinderella Man brings this dramatic all-American story to life, evoking a time when the sport of boxing resonated with a country trying desperately to get back on its feet. Schaap paints a vivid picture of the fight world in its golden age, populated by men of every class and ethnic background and covered voluminously by writers who elevated sports writing to art. Rich in anecdote and color, steeped in history, and full of human interest, Cinderellla Man is a classic David and Goliath tale that transcends the sport.

Customer Reviews:

Well Done Boxing Biography.......2007-08-11

Jeremy Schaap does a nice job of telling the story of James J. Braddock who pulled off one of the biggest upsets in boxing history on June 13, 1935 when he defeated Max Baer for the world heavyweight boxing championship. While I don't think Schaap does a wonderful job of capturing the era or the times that Braddock lived in, he does an excellent job of conveying Braddock's up and down career, his relationship with his manager Joe Gould, and the desperate straights both found themselves in during The Great Depression. It's really a heartwarming story in many ways.

Schaap also provides us a very good look at the character and career of Max Baer. In many ways Baer's career could be seen as a bit of a tragedy in that he squandered his great talent by not applying himself to the craft of boxing. Then again, he was emotionally affected by the death of Frankie Campbell after Baer knocked him out in the ring and appeared to see boxing a means to wealth and fame but didn't really like it - at least the training aspect of it. Schaap's treatment of the controversial Baer seems evenhanded and well woven into the book.

Overall, for sports and boxing enthusiasts, a definite thumbs up.

Cinderella Man.......2007-02-16

Incredible descriptions of Jimmy Braddock's and Max Baer's fights. Most boxing books fail to describe the blow by blow action as well as this book does. I actually got chills reading about Braddock's jab in the early rounds of their encounter.

A Great Book!.......2006-11-01

This book is about one of the greatest sports comeback ever. Schaap not only profiles the history of boxing but gives us a quaint look at life during the 1930's depression. Jimmy Braddock, was a washed-up, underdog determined to win the title against one of the greatest boxers ever, Max Baer. Braddock was billed as a 10-to-one underdog. Baer was not only
heavily favored, but he had already killed two men in the ring. Braddock, with the help of his manager, Joe Gould makes a remarkable comeback and defeats Baer. Braddock becomes a hero and is able to get off welfare once and for all. The story is a hit, even for those who don't like boxing.

Cinderella Man:James Braddock, Max Baer, and the Greatest Upset in Boxing History.......2006-08-28

I haven't had time to read the book yet but it arrived very quickly, wich pleased me.

Great book!.......2006-02-27

If you liked the movie you will love the book. The book goes into much greater detail about the man and the time period. Also, if you want to know more about Max B. you will not be disappointed. He was unfairly shown in the movie as a one dimensional bad guy.

If you want to step into a time machine and see what boxing was like in the late 20's and early 30's, this one is for you. I could not put it down till I was done.

Boxer's Start-Up: A Beginner's Guide to Boxing (Start-Up Sports series)

Average customer rating:

going, going, gone!
A really good read and introduction to the sport
Boxing Hopefuls - Welcome To The Basics
Exellent instruction
great book on the basics

Boxer's Start-Up: A Beginner's Guide to Boxing (Start-Up Sports series)
Doug Werner
Manufacturer: Tracks Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Bowling | Individual Sports | Sports | Subjects | Books

Boxing | Individual Sports | Sports | Subjects | Books

General | Sports | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1884654096

Book Description

A user-friendly, highly illustrated, straightforward boxing guide that promotes fun, fitness, self-defense, and self-confidence. Endorsed by USA Boxing, national governing body for amateur boxing.

Customer Reviews:

going, going, gone!.......2005-10-19

This is hands down the best boxing book i've ever read! not to vague like most boxing instuction books. i recommend it to all my students as a guide. if you like this book i strongly encourage you to consider fighting fit. it's the sequel to boxer's start-up. both books don't take anything for granted. it's easy to follow, filled with practical advise and in perfect sequence. buy this book!!

A really good read and introduction to the sport.......2005-08-02

This was a really easy read and enjoyable book. The points and presentation are first class and explained very well.

On the whole a really good introduction to Boxing and its nuances.

Boxing Hopefuls - Welcome To The Basics.......2004-02-04

I really liked this book.

The first 2 chapters are an introduction to boxing and what equipment you'll need as you go deeper into training.

Chapter 3 through chapter 10 are the fundamentals - from stance (very important) through sparing.

Each function and mechanic of a technique is described very well and great and useful detail is given.

The section regarding wrapping your hands - don't worry too much if you don't get it here. It takes a while to figure out how to wrap. They have dvd's and videos dedicated to just wrapping your hands so don't stress out.

The writing has personality and the teaching isn't preachy or too butch or too vague. It's a nice and easy introduction to the fundamentals. Again - this is a beginners guide and is really for the beginner - NOT exclusively as I got some good detail regarding throwing a hook punch.

Also the pace of the book builds as your skill builds - the order of chapters and tools taught are exactly where they should be.

Chapter 11 is a brief history of boxing which I enjoyed.

Chapter 12 consists of the author's journal entries(a newcomer to boxing)- they are his first 6 months of lesson's with Alan Lachica - who sounds like one very cool guy and one of the best coaches out there for those interested in practicing the Sweet Science.

Great book for the beginner

Exellent instruction.......2003-09-04

I have previously thought that you simply can not learn a new physical skill by just reading a book. After being introduced to Boxer's start-up my opinion has changed. The book is filled with exellent photography to support the text, and you really can learn the techniques from just reading the book!

The book can be divided into three parts. The first part covers about 100 pages, and it is the actual instructional part of the book. It covers everything from the ground up (boxing gear, stance & footwork, the punches, punching combinations, hitting the bag, defense & counters, sparring, and so on). The second part is really just one chapter, and it covers the essential history of boxing, including the greatest fighters. The third part is shortened version of the author's diary, covering his experiences on learning to box. This part is about 35 pages long, and it's a matter of taste if this is too much. On the other hand, you don't learn much from reading this, but on the other hand it is fun to read other beginner's experiences.

In conclusion, I have to say that I was impressed with this book. It's amazing how good an intruction you can get from reading a book. Compared to the instruction I got from my beginner's boxing class, I think I learned more from this book.

great book on the basics.......2003-01-02

This is a great book for anyone interested in learning to box, as well as for martial artists interested in more practical striking and footwork.

If you're serious about learning to do it right though, find a qualified trainer. Books are great supplements to qualified instruction, but even well written ones like this can never replace it.

Going the Distance : The Ken Norton Story
Average customer rating:

Good book

You'll Go the Distance with this Autobiography!

Learn life lessons on achievement, character and leadership

Ken Norton's Book Does NOT Go The Distance

THAT LONG DISTANCE

Going the Distance : The Ken Norton Story
Marshall Terrill , and Ken Norton
Manufacturer: Sports Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

African-American & Black | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
General | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
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Boxing | Individual Sports | Sports | Subjects | Books
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Smokin' Joe: The Autobiography of a Heavyweight Champion of the World, Smokin' Joe Frazier

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Pound for Pound : A Biography of Sugar Ray Robinson

ASIN: 1582612250

Book Description

The 1970s ushered in boxing's greatest class of heavyweight fighters. The fight game has never before or since seen such a talented and charismatic group. Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, George Foreman, Larry Holmes, and Ken Norton have been hailed as "Champions Forever, " as the world heavyweight title was passed among them throughout the decade. On March 31, 1973, Norton broke Ali's jaw in the process of winning a 12-round decision over "The Greatest." Going the Distance traces the incredible path of Norton's life, from Jacksonville, Illinois, to Northeast Missouri State University, to the U.S. Marines, to his historic bout with Ali in San Diego, California, and on to his life today. The book includes exclusive personal photos from Norton's collection, as well as a chronology of Norton's 49 professional fights.

Customer Reviews:

Good book.......2007-09-12

I thought Going the Distance was a good book. If you were into the greatest generation of heavyweight fighters like I was, I think It's a must read. Norton goes into detail about his relationship with Ali. He also describes a lot of his big fights in great detail, possibly a little to much detail on that but the book is still a good read for true boxing fans.

You'll Go the Distance with this Autobiography!.......2005-11-28

"Going The Distance" is the great heavyweight boxer Ken Norton's life story. He breaks it down primarily into 5 parts:

1. Childhood
2. Early Adulthood
3. Boxing Years
4. Life Recovering from his Life Threatening Auto Accident
5. Life after that

I found his childhood to be fascinating as well as his early adulthood. His style is open and sincere. Although he's egotistical at times, he's also very honest and is ultimately a very good man.

A sigificant portion of the book discusses his primary boxing matches. I didn't care for his descriptions of his matches with Ali, but I did find value in his description of boxing matches with Jimmy Young, Larry Holmes, and even Scott LeDeoux. It ended gently with him going into poignant details about the 2 1/2 year fall out with his son, Ken Norton Jr (great Linebacker for the Cowboys/49ers).

The ending made me want to book reservations to go to the annual Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York. Ken Norton's Autobiography is very useful if you enjoy reading boxing books.

In addition to his autobiography, there are passages from other people from Ken Norton Sr., Gerry Cooney, Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, Scott LeDoux, Larry Holmes, Eddie Futch, a local media person from the town he grew up in, his mentors, and even the referees that decided his very close loss to in Norton-Ali III.

From a boxing standpoint, I found Norton's descriptive of boxing fascinating because of his perspective of boxing as a person who did not get into boxing until late in his life, 20.

I was intrigued by his wiley personality which makes him come off as a very charming man. I was also impressed by his amazing focus despite at times being completely out of focus in his life due to his, as he put it, "being spoiled" as a child.

I read this in 2 two days which tells me it was worth reading.

Learn life lessons on achievement, character and leadership.......2005-03-14

Ken Norton is a very classy guy and the former WBC Heavyweight Champion is very open and candid in the book. Norton is a 1992 inductee into the International Boxing Hall of Fame and a 2004 inductee into the United States Marine Corps Sports Hall and Fame. Norton attended Northeast Missouri State University (now Truman State) on a football scholarship. This is a great book not only for boxing fans, but to learn life lessons on achievement, leadership and building character.

Ken Norton's Book Does NOT Go The Distance.......2003-05-06

Being a boxing fan since 1971, I lived through the era of great heavyweights of the seventies: Ali, Frazier, Holmes, Foreman, and Norton. Ken Norton was a terrific competitor of that era, and I expected his book to be an exciting retelling of his experiences of that era. Unfortunately, the book left me disappointed. Norton spends too much time explaining blow by blow, round by round, his greatest fights. Although this may appeal to some, I found it repetitive and somewhat boring. One can get the round by round analysis by watching the fight videos. I found myself skimming over these sections to get to his feelings and thoughts about the fights. This was THE major drawback of the book.

Norton's three fights with Ali are covered in great detail, as these fights brought him into the public's consciousness. But once again the emphasis was on the blow by blow coverage instead of anecdotes and recollections about the fights. He expresses his bitter feelings about his third fight with Ali in which he feels he should have been given the decision. Having trained so tremendously hard for this fight and then having the decision go against him, Norton relates how this heart went out of boxing at this point. Although he becomes the Heavyweight Championship of the World title two years later when Ali retires, Norton is unable to retain te title in his first defense against Larry Holmes. He blames his failure to defend the title on his lack of dedication to boxing after the last Ali match. His heart was just not in it. I can't help but think Norton would have received the professional recognition and justification he so craved had he defeated Holmes. Their match was an exciting battle that culminated in perhaps one of the greatest rounds of boxing ever. Had Norton pulled out the decision, he would have probably been rematched with Ali one final time and had his best chance to defeat his nemesis decisively. However, history and fate turned a different direction, one that did not include a prominant role for Ken Norton.

Norton's private and then public feud with his son, Ken Norton Jr., make up a complete chapter in the book but this held little interest to me, a boxing fan.

Ken Norton is a decent man who had an interesting career, being both a boxer and a fighter. His experience acting as the characters "Mandingo" and "Drum" are only briefly mentioned. Again, there are few interesting stories or revelations about this time of his life. I would have liked to hear more.

Norton's book is a quick and easy read, as there are no major character controveries, conflicts, or issues to digest. I did not find it compelling in any regard. It was an easy book to put down. I had hoped for much more. As far as boxing books go, I have to rate it sub-par.

Jim Koenig

THAT LONG DISTANCE.......2003-01-09

"Going the Distance: The Ken Norton Story" makes a compelling read. It is one unassuming autobiography.
Ken was a remarkable fighter: a great one whose hulky hew was intimidating. His era was the one which notable names like Ali, Foreman and Frazier dominated; yet, he still fought his way to the top: becoming a champion in 1978. He is remembered as one of the few boxers who scored a victory over Muhammad Ali. He broke The Greatest's jaw in the process. Ken's (championship) fight against Larry Holmes was a gut-wrenching one: regardless of his losing it via majority decision.
This book rides one across his humble up-bringing; and then into the 1970s. I liked the way it refreshed my memory. It recounted Ken's life story in a candid manner. Reading it was a pleasure!

Training Your Boxer (Training Your Dog Series)

Average customer rating:

Dog Training Made Easy
A good book
Thinking of purchasing
Training Your Boxer
A couple problems

Training Your Boxer (Training Your Dog Series)
Joan Walker
Manufacturer: Barron's Educational Series
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Animal Care & Pets | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Boxer Handbook, The (Barron's Pet Handbooks)
Boxers for Dummies
A New Owner's Guide to Boxers (JG Dog)
The Boxer: Family Favorite (170 color photographs) Winner--DWAA Award--Best Single Breed Book of 2000
Boxers (Complete Pet Owner's Manuals)

Accessories:

Boxers (Complete Pet Owner's Manuals)
Living with a Boxer
Boxer Handbook, The (Barron's Pet Handbooks)

Product Features:

Full of Information
Great Read

ASIN: 0764116347

Product Description

When correctly trained, the Boxer is renowned for unswerving loyalty to its master and its fearlessness as a guard dog. Training Your Dog books teach ordinary nonexpert dog owners how to train their own pets. Virtually every aspect of training is covered, with special focus on the distinctive traits of individual breeds. Dog owners are instructed on humane but effective methods of housebreaking and paper training, obedience training, teaching the dog to respond to verbal commands and hand signals, walking on a leash, and more. Also covered are methods of correcting bad habits such as begging, unwanted barking, and showing hostile behavior. There are many instructive, full color photos in each book.

Customer Reviews:

Dog Training Made Easy.......2007-05-19

This book tells of numerous ways to train your boxer so you can pick which method works best for your dog. Easy to follow instructions makes training fun and alot less daunting.

A good book.......2006-05-07

I found this to be well written and informative. A good buy.

Thinking of purchasing.......2006-05-04

It's great to see the author writing customer reviews of their own book? Turned me off from buying the book. How stupid does she think people are?

Training Your Boxer.......2005-08-12

Very logical. Easy to follow and understand. Very strong on positive reinforcement.

A couple problems .......2004-11-25

After making a strong case that Boxers need specialized training, there seems to be little in it particular to the Boxer. I wonder if this is just an edit off one of the other Barron's books.

Two, the author pushes treats as training rewards, which many believe isnt the best.

Three, on some topics, like handling aggression, the author just punts - 'consult an expert.' Not very helpful.

All in all, I prefer the Monks of New Skeet, and "The Art of Raising a Puppy."

Average customer rating:

nothing special
Enjoyable
generic but ok
Great book for all
Boxers for Dummies

Boxers for Dummies
Richard Beauchamp
Manufacturer: For Dummies
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Animal Care & Pets | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

All Amazon Upgrade | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

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Training Your Boxer (Training Your Dog Series)
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Boxers (Complete Pet Owner's Manuals)

ASIN: 0764552856

Product Description

Get the lowdown on keeping your dog healthy and content.Strong, loyal, and self-assured, the Boxer is an energetic dog and a wonderful family pet. This fun and friendly book provides insights into the Boxer temperament, expert advice on taking care of and training your dog, tips on participating in a variety of dog competitions, and much more.Discover how to:Choose the right Boxer for you.Manage your new puppy.Educate yourself and your dog.Maintain good health, proper exercise, and a balanced diet.Handle behavioral problems.The Dummies WayExplanations in plain English."Get in, get out" information.Icons and other navigational aids.Tear-out cheat sheet.Top ten lists.A dash of humor and fun.

Customer Reviews:

nothing special.......2007-08-27

I agree with one of the preceding reviews. Substitute beagle or French poodle for boxer and you have 90% the same book. I was looking for a little more insight.

Enjoyable.......2005-12-13

I really enjoyed reading this book on Boxers. I am researching dog breeds before I commit to a new family member. There was a careful balance of enthusiasm for the Boxer and warnings of their specialized needs AND the responsibilites of Boxer ownership.
I especially enjoyed the observations he made between male and female boxers, puppy training, and problematic behaviors.
Even if I don't decide to own a Boxer in the future, this was an entertaining educational read that I would recommend to all.

generic but ok.......2002-06-08

Like most for dummies books, this is essentially a cut and paste of all of their other dog books with the word boxer inserted in place of dog. In a few cases it has stories of the writers experiences with boxers but this book is really nothing special. Try culture clash to get a better understanding of your companion.

Great book for all.......2001-06-18

There is a lot of information here. From the breed history, to training, to behavior tips, to choosing a Boxer, this is the book. There are few books that contain this much Boxer information. You can't go wrong with this title. The author has written this well, as it is an easy, enjoyable read.

Boxers for Dummies.......2000-10-23

This is an excellent book for new Boxer owners as well as the seasoned owner. There is so much information on acquiring and owning a Boxer for the first time. Being a Boxer owner I can say that the author has cover all there is to know about bring a Boxer into your home and raising it as a companion and a friend. Boxer are definately not for everyone and if you are thinking a getting one of these wonderful babies then this is a must read book.

The Ultimate Boxer: Understanding the Sport and Skills of Boxing

Average customer rating:

Excellent - motivating
Good content
Most Knowlegable Book on Olympic-style Boxing
Ulitmate Boxer, wish it was Ulimate book
The Official Handbook of Boxing!

The Ultimate Boxer: Understanding the Sport and Skills of Boxing
Christy Halbert
Manufacturer: Impact Seminars, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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Ultimate Guide to Weight Training for Boxing
The Boxer's Workout

ASIN: 0963096850

Book Description

A practical boxing guide covering developmental and fitness exercises, skill tips, technical information, and competitive strategies. This handbook contains essential information for competitive boxers, fitness boxers, martial artists, coaches, and fans.

Find answers to your boxing questions, including: Why should a boxer lead with the shoulder? How should my boxing strategy change, depending upon the style of my opponent? How do judges score bouts? Which drills will make me more effective in the ring?

Easy-to-follow instructions, diagrams, charts and tables help you understand competitive boxing skills and strategy you can put to use in the gym or in the ring. Learn to make informed decisions about your training, and gain the competitive edge for immediate success.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent - motivating.......2007-01-09

The book is laid out in a very logical fashion and includes answers to all the basic questions a boxer in training has. Very detailed and practical. Also very motivating. A must have source for new boxers or boxers looking to kick it up a notch

Good content.......2006-10-23

Very good and detailed info, but the grammar is horrible.Every other sentence is the politicaly correct "he/she" instead of the correct "he" which makes this book somwhat annoying and tiring to read.So buy it, but if you too find plain bad grammar annoying,like me,get your white out ready.

Most Knowlegable Book on Olympic-style Boxing.......2006-04-06

This is the most knowledgable book ever writtien on Olympic-style (amateur) boxing.
The finer points of the game that most people don't even consider, including boxing for judges positioning, computer scoring, five critera for a scoring blow, what to expect as a boxer at a venue, and boxing different styles of boxers are all included. It really shows how boxing is not just getting in the ring and slugging, but a precise and measured art.

The self reflection worksheets are also a valuable tool for keeping track of your training progress for both Olympic-style and professional boxers. I look foward to the next book!

Ulitmate Boxer, wish it was Ulimate book.......2006-03-23

I train boxers in New York City and am also a boxing historian. I collect boxing manuals and this one is just average, not enough information on how to do techniques. Good for someone just starting out but not for anyone looking for detailed information.

The Official Handbook of Boxing!.......2005-09-16

This book is incredibly detailed on the subject of learning how to box. The author IS a boxing coach and everything in the book comes from that point of view. The book is very well organized and very well written. It has important tips and drills to use after key topics. This book will help you to understand not only the fundamentals, but why you do them. This book should be the official handbook of boxing! Even if you have a coach and are training, I still recommend you get this as it gives you the correct ways to box, train, and strategize from an elite-level boxing coach.

Workouts from Boxing's Greatest Champs: Get in Shape with Muhammad Ali, Fernando Vargas, Roy Jones Jr., and Other Legends

Average customer rating:

A quick read
Well laid out - worhwhile
totally awesome read
knockout book.
Boring

Workouts from Boxing's Greatest Champs: Get in Shape with Muhammad Ali, Fernando Vargas, Roy Jones Jr., and Other Legends
Gary Todd
Manufacturer: Ulysses Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

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Accessories:

Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor

ASIN: 1569754438

Book Description

Fed by media fascination with super heavyweights like George Foreman, the perception of boxers as oversized guys with oversized muscles is simply wrong. For every weight class, strength must be carefully balanced with the ideal physique. In truth, boxer training produces a body perfectly balanced for strength, shape, speed, and stamina.

The author traveled the world talking to top boxers about how they train for peak performance. Their workouts will help reshape the reader's body, and the short bios and quotes from legendary favorites will inspire readers to take their workout to the next level.

This one-of-a-kind approach to the world of boxing offers readers proven tips on balancing their own physique. Want to build more strength? Follow the workout of heavyweights like Ali. Need to slim down but don't want to lose muscle? Try the program of middleweight Fernando Vargas. Want to go all out for the ultimate physical fitness? Then try to keep up with the training of pound-for-pound legend Roy Jones Jr.

Customer Reviews:

A quick read.......2007-05-18

As a boxing fan, I wanted to check this book out to see the workout ideas of the great boxers. To be honest, the glimpses into their training regimes are fairly short and repetitive. I would have liked a bit more on even just one boxer but the author did give his own training routine and some good tips.

The pictures were pretty good in the book. A quick read.

Well laid out - worhwhile.......2007-01-09

book is very well laid out with workouts from all the champs and details of their personal training schedule and nutrition program. Excellent for the new boxer or the experienced boxer looking to vary their workout schedule. Lots of great pictures.

totally awesome read.......2006-07-26

what a great book. i read it over and over again, and i now have it stored in my locker at the gym. totally awesome read. cant wait for volume 2. rob, new york

knockout book........2006-07-13

great book. ive read loads of boxing books, but this has a different read altogether. i loved it. shane, miami

Boring.......2006-05-09

This is not at all what might be expected. The book is filled with pictures, the same 10 or so interview questions and a list of workout routines that vary, slightly, with each athlete. There is no rationale included in the benefits or strategy of each boxer's workout or routine. There is very little here that would be of use or interest to anyone interested in learning.

Reach!: Finding Strength, Spirit, and Personal Power

Average customer rating:

Good Read
Reached?
surprising and educating
This is whatz good
She make you want to figth!

Reach!: Finding Strength, Spirit, and Personal Power
David Ritz , and Laila Ali
Manufacturer: Hyperion
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

African-American & Black | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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Sugar Ray Leonard & Laila Ali: Heavyweight Advanced Workout

ASIN: 0786868554

Book Description

With an undefeated 100 boxing record, Laila Ali can definitely hold her own in the ring. She has received a firestorm of media coverage, and her recent bout with Jacqui Frazier was the most highly publicized female boxing fight ever. Now, she offers her formula for physical, emotional, and mental power in a motivational memoir that delivers 15 rounds of straight-talking, hard-hitting advice. She reveals how she overcame child abuse, weight issues, isolation, and overall bad behavior by tenaciously developing a talent that she enjoyedprofessional boxing. She demonstrates how to sidestep feelings of self-pity and defeatism and achieve success in all arenas: diet, family, personal relationships, physical training, and more. Combining spiritual inspiration with practical guidance, Laila Alis program will show readers of all ages and backgrounds how to transform the demons of self-doubt into positive, winning energy.

Customer Reviews:

Good Read.......2007-05-14

I bought the book to inspire my daughter and found it very interesting myself. It's simple and to the point. Very interesting without a boring moment.

Reached?.......2005-03-06

I really enjoyed reading this book. It was very insprational and modivated me to realize that my life is really not that bad and i can do whatever i put my mind to!

surprising and educating.......2005-02-08

everytime i see a laila ali interview or t.v special, she always comes off as a cocky, conceited b***h (and i don't mean a good conceited like her father)who thinks she can beat the world. after i read this book though, i think of her totally different. a lot of that cockiness is misunderstood for strength. she let down her guard with this book by telling the things she told. it takes a lot of strength to talk about an abortion, an abusive relationship and a rocky relationship with your mother. she's not as tough as she comes off on t.v. she was born and raised in the suburbs and after getting her ass kicked she didn't even think about going to the ghetto school Crenshaw. she wasn't a tough chick who got locked up for being bad, she simply was at the wrong place at the wrong time and made bad (and i might add stupid) decisions. i was very shocked and surprised by this book. you really feel like you know her after reading it, b/c you know somebody just like her down the street, or next door, or at your job/school. she did keep her personal life out of the press. and she did it extremely good. i reccommend this book, b/c it was good enough for me to read in a few hours!!

This is whatz good.......2004-05-19

Since I am a fan of her it is important to know about her life and how her life realtes to mine. Untill I exactly read her book, I never knew of her personal struggles she went through to being a world champion. I see she has her share of problems that normal young women experience. The book totally shocked me when I learn she really didn't live with her father and how life became harder for her after her mother and father seperated. You would never think that a strong person like Laila would go through the same emotions, thousands of other young women go through today. I learned a lot from this book and I would recommend this to anyone seeking to know more about her life and to all those girls trying to blssom into a Lady.

She make you want to figth!.......2003-01-10

I am a big Laila Ali fan. Even I did not know her rough past because she kept it from the press very well. After reading this book and Laila sharing her past with me I fell that I can become a beautiful strong black woman like she has become. This is not just a biography. She really makes you believe in yourself and show you that anything is possible even at such a young age. Keep doin what you're doin LAILA!!

The Boxer: Family Favorite (170 color photographs) Winner--DWAA Award--Best Single Breed Book of 2000

Average customer rating:

Great Boxer Book
WINNER-BEST BREED BOOK of 2000
The Boxer: Family Favorite -- A Must Have
A Joy To Read
The Boxer: Family Favorite

The Boxer: Family Favorite (170 color photographs) Winner--DWAA Award--Best Single Breed Book of 2000
Stephanie Abraham
Manufacturer: Howell Book House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Animal Care & Pets | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1582451273

Book Description

The Boxer has long been one of America's best-loved dog breeds and this newest book is a true celebration of Boxers and why so many dog lovers have been, and continue to be, attracted to them. The Boxer: Family Favorite is the ideal book for the pet owner, novice fancier and veteran enthusiast alike. The reasons for the Boxer's solid reputation can be recognized throughout this bright, new book. Those seeking information on the breed for any reason will find all their questions answered by one of the Boxer world's foremost authorities. Like the other titles in Howell's Best of Breed Library, this book features chapters on all aspects of caring for, and enjoying a dog in and away from the home, and includes several valuable appendices.

Customer Reviews:

Great Boxer Book.......2002-07-03

Author Stephanie Abraham put out another great book in 2000. Enough readers & critics enjoyed it to have it earn the same year's "Dog Writers Assoc of America" award. It's a handsome hardcover book with 220+ crisp pages. Pictures on just about every page. Abraham is dedicated to the Boxer breed. She speaks of the Boxer with admiration as only a Boxer owner could. She writes well and in easy to read fashion. Topics include caring for, general health, choosing your Boxer and traits to look for in a puppy, history, basic tips in training... and so much more. I refer to this book constantly. This is a very thorough book and anyone who owns a Boxer should own it. The only thing it doesn't mention - the older your Boxer gets, the more he slobbers. My family (including our Boxer, Max) is better off for it.

WINNER-BEST BREED BOOK of 2000.......2001-11-02

Just to state the fact that The Boxer: Family Favorite won the Dog Writers Association of America award as the Best Single Breed Book of the year 2000. This book is THE definitive in-depth study of the breed by someone who has spent her whole life living with and loving Boxers. The color photographs are outstanding.

The Boxer: Family Favorite -- A Must Have.......2001-08-11

As an owner of three boxers and 10 boxer books, if I could only have one boxer book this would be it. It is full of wonderful information for both people who know and love the breed, and also is a wonderful introduction to someone considering their first boxer.

A Joy To Read.......2001-01-02

The Boxer: Family Favorite is one of the most enjoyable dog books I have read. The author's love of boxers, enthusiasm and dedication to the breed is evident on every page. She provides a wealth of practical information for anyone interested in boxers, the photographs are beautiful, and I recommend this book highly.

The Boxer: Family Favorite.......2000-06-24

Boxer neophytes might call this a "coffee table" book because of the fine quality of the cover, photos, paper, binding, etc. To anyone interested in entering world the Boxer this book says welcome. But we who do own (or expect to own), breed, and show our Boxers will find this book to contain valuable information on all Boxer topics so important to us: history, breeding, puppy selection, health, etc. The writing is clear, well organized, and a pleasure to read. Because Stephanie Abraham is well known in the national and international Boxer world, she had the confidence of the owners of these beautiful dogs so they released these many photos for her book. Experienced Boxer folk will recognize the magnificent Boxers in the crisp, colored photos.

Mi Vida Loca: The Crazy Life of Johnny Tapia

Average customer rating:

Pitty party
Good, But Badly Written
Woeful stuff
I remember him as a kid.
Never count yourself out!

Mi Vida Loca: The Crazy Life of Johnny Tapia
Johnny Tapia
Manufacturer: Volt Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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Boxing | Individual Sports | Sports | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1566252717

Book Description

There is only one winner in boxing. Fighting against your opponent and fighting against your own inner demons become one in the same. Those who survive both in and out of the ring are beloved worldwide. Those who do not spiral downward into drugs, prison, and even murder. ...[My] life's been pretty tragic, remarks Johnny. But in the ring, it's been a blessing. Mi Vida Loca is not just a nickname for Johnny, but a legendary tale of a life lived over the edge and back.

Customer Reviews:

Pitty party .......2007-05-08

The title of this book should be "Feel Sorry For Me, No wait! I Mean Don't Feel Sorry for Me". He truly can't make up his mind. The stories have a true ring to them but the emblishment is so far fetched that I found myself throwing the BS flag over and over. Still,it makes for a quick read and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. I am a female boxing fan from New Mexico and I used to live in Albuquerque so the details were fun. The "lingo" seemed authentic and if you have ever watched an interview with Tapia you will agree this book was written the same way he speaks.

Good, But Badly Written.......2007-04-23

As much as Johnny Tapia has led a crazy life, the grammar in this book is appalling. This book was obviously written firstly in Spanish & then translated over into English. It has been translated over very badly & reads in Pigeon English most of the way through. For what can be read, yes of course this book is good because Johnny Tapia has thrown caution to the wind in his approach to life ever since the terrible experience he went through at such an early age. I cannot help but wish him well though. To update you, he did have an overdose (approx. Feb / Mar 2006) which I understand now, 23rd April, he is hanging in there, Bless Him.

Woeful stuff.......2007-04-14

I understand that Tapia had a hard upbringing but I kept getting the feeling that it was exaggerated throughout the book as a way to justify the drug addictions.

I bought the book as a boxing fan but there is very little boxing in the book. Mostly a runthrough on the boxers childhood and adolescence.

I thought the book was a disappointment.

I remember him as a kid........2006-11-04

I remember Johnny Tapia as a kid. I was quite a bit older than him but I remember him just as he describes himself, a high energy kid running around all the time, driving everyone a little crazy. I don't think I have any memories of him standing still. He was a fun kid. He was well liked, but even as a little guy, the bigger kids had a lot of respect for him. No one messed with him. I remember seeing him get into a fist fight in the parking lot at Wells Park. The kid he was fighting was twice his size. He pummeled that poor kid within a few seconds. I couldn't believe it. When I saw him in the news years later for his boxing accomplishments I remembered that fist fight in the parking lot. I wasn't surprised that he was a champ. When I read about his problems, I remembered what our lives were like growing up and wasn't surprised either. When I read about what he'd overcome, again - not surprised. I remembered that little kid running around and how he had such a good heart even back then. I knew he'd be ok. Reading his book, I have to say I admire him for how honest he was about his life. I couldn't put his book down. It's written like he was sitting in front of you telling you his life story, and what a story it is. This story made me appreciate my life growing up and all the time I spent hanging out every summer at Well's Park. I'm waiting for him to come out with some book signings here in Albuquerque. I promise I'll be standing in line.

Never count yourself out!.......2006-08-26

This book is great, but sad. For anyone to lose their morther at such a young age is devastataing. Johnny wanted to give up at times, but his wife never counted him out. A compassionate book with the attitude that says "always get back on your feet, no matter what."

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