Sports and Recreation Books

I first decided to watch A&E's Horatio Hornblower because I had caught a glimpse of Ioan Gruffudd, and thought he was very handsome. But, as I watched, I got caught up in the movie, and thoroughly enjoyed the whole series. Then, when I learned there was a behind-the-scenes book availiable, I knew I had to have it. I tried all the local bookstores (and some not so local, too) with no luck. Then I tried Amazon, and I finally got my book. It is a great book, with loads of candid pictures and still frames from the filming of the series. I enjoyed learning how all the battle scenes were filmed, about the use of scale models, and all the hard work put into the filming of Horatio Hornblower. I would definately reccommend this book to anyone who liked the series. It is a wonderful, informative, and captivating look at the behind-the-scenes action of the best miniseries I have ever seen, Horatio Hornblower.

To all,

Mr. Gruffudd's performance in this movie was absolutely spectacular. I don't think that it is possible to give an amount of stars on this movie. All the actors were great, including stand out acting by Robert Lidnsey and Jamie Bamber. I think this is defintely a book everyone should read, and a movie for all to enjoy.

I'm Out,

Val

Whoever found Ioan Gruffudd for the role of Hornblower should be rewarded 10 times over and then some. This book is chock full of fantatic pictures and great insite into the making of this exciting series. I laugh out loud at some of the humor laced throughout this book. The pictures are worth owning this book for on their own, is a must own for any fan of Hornblowaaahhhhh!

If you are a Hornblower fan you must have this book! First, the photographs are amazing including captures from the hit A & M mini series to back stage candids, technical details and beautiful portraits of the stars. Second, the written commentary if fantastic. The writer goes into details of the complexities of filming in a foreign place, supplying food, costumes, transportation and everything else. It also talks about the Grand Turk, the ship they filmed the mini series on. It was interesting to read about how the crew from the film had to work with the crew that actually operated the ship, the movie sailing cast and the makeup and wardrobe people, all on what seems to be a pretty small ship. This book is very well done, and really should be owned by any true Horatio Hornblower fan.

I love this book. Aside from the tons of great pictures of the cast, it gives a lot of background on all the characters - including the boat that they used to for filming.

There are brief synopsis' on all the movies as well as a brief rundown of the characters we meet in each movie.

Wonderful interviews, beautiful pictures, and indepth characterization from the actor's perspective.

This is a great book for any Hornblower fan!

As a woman born in 1980, I really had never grasped the concept of what the generation before my birth had done. I never really understood what the world believed about the abilities of women. Katherine Switzer's story is powerful and amazing. I'm so glad I could grow up believing that I could do anything. The book is well written and powerful.

I wondered how much Kathrine Switzer could write about besides her first BM foray, but soon realized how much more there is to her tale beyond Beantown. Her writing is quite personal, compelling, and motivating. Since finishing her book, I keep thinking of her morsels of advice, helping me push a little faster, a little farther. This is a must for every female runner.

This was one of the best "athlete" books I've ever read! This is true particularly because Kathrine Switzer's story will appeal to and regale persons in all walks of life. She communicates her feelings to the general public, not just the running fraternity, in ways that everyone can relate to from heartbreak to euphoria.

This was hands down one of the most inspiring running books I've ever read. Kathrine's foresight into the sport of running amazes me - we can thank her not only for bringing the women's marathon to the 1984 Olympic games but also for today's modern marathon "comforts" that didn't exist when she first hit the streets of Boston.
I read this while training for a marathon and her story kept me going during those long and painful runs. This book is a must-read for any runner, male or female.

If ever there was a real-life Wonder Woman, it's Kathrine Switzer...whose brave pursuit and promotion of running events have benefitted countless millions who want to similarly express their joy for the sport. This fun-to-read, fascinating autobiography beautifully communicates the voice of its author: enthusiastic, funny, passionate. It's a must-read for marathoners and entertaining for anyone else who's ever shared in the excitement of witnessing and/or participating in a sporting event.

I have already another excellent book (Ultimate fitness) and some DVD's of Master Sang H. Kim. He is a great teacher and likes to share his martial arts wisdom.
This book covers almost every single aspect about running a martial arts business, from teaching to marketing.
A serious book to serious martial arts teachers.
I strongly advice you to get one.

I'd recommend this without reservation to any martial arts instructor, part-time or full time. Or any instructor. It provides excellent simple advice for dealing with simple difficult issues such as ADD kids or other attention problems in class. It provides straightforward and concise guides for organizing a class or a business. I've had it only a few weeks, and expect to be mining its depths for years. I doubt if I'll ever sit down to read it straight through, but I've found that every time I've gone to it for any specific issue, or just to open and browse for ten or fifteen minutes, I've learned something.

This book has a wealth of information about running a dojang (dojo). From dealing with the difficult student to organizing a class with specific drills, this book covers everything a good instructor needs to at least think through. I particularly liked the aspects of running a business; when to advertise, how to run a radio spot, what to do when enrollment drops, when to expand and when not to. If your business is teaching martial arts, you must have this book.

Martial arts desk reference is a wonderful guide that no instructor should be without. Good ideas,for high ranking , as well as student instructors. great book

I found this book to be a great reference in running my school. I have made it required reading for all my instructors and staff members. I highly recommend this title to all those running a martial arts school.

This is one of the best jiu jitsu books ever it gives in great detail insight to Eddie Bravo's game.

I got this book because I really liked how Mastering the Rubber guard was set up and hoped that Mastering the Twister would be just as useful and enjoyable. I can honestly say that it was and that I was very pleased with the purchase. What I liked about both products was that they both teach a System of techniques that all link together and include "go to" moves for when things don't go according to plan. I also liked the personal stories that Mr. Bravo included; I felt that the combination of these two elements took these books well beyond what most martial arts books provide. The value of these books is that they are useful as reference, good for new ideas as they contain an unorthodox BJJ game, and they are highly entertaining. Definitely well worth the purchase. Keep up the good work!

Just like his book on the Rubber Guard, Eddie Bravo's 'Mastering the Twister' is an innovative, effective and insightful system of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu without the gi, that both intermediate and longtime practitioners will benefit in many ways from.

Like 'Mastering the Rubber Guard', this isn't just an encyclopedia of moves and positions, but a complete gameplan and system. There is a flow-chart that details each position as it transitions to the next, and Eddie goes into excellent detail on the intricacies of each technique. Like other Victory Belt published books, this is as good an instructional you will get short of a DVD video release. Highly recommended.

This is advanced BJJ however, so beginners will be adviced not to just jump in without a firm grasp of the basics. It should also be noted that Mastering the Twister is a direct "sequel" if you will to Mastering the Rubber Guard, so it will be good to start with that book first, though not totally necessary. What MTRG did for the bottom game, MTTwister does for the top game.

Eddie's system is freaking awesome! I am an accomplished grappler and have always been interested in new techniques, etc. I was already familiar with the twister and a couple of the setups, but Eddie's book blew me away. My top game is so sick right now, that not one of my fellow students, nor my coach, can touch me!
If you have some grappling experience, this book will revolutionize your top game.
If you are new, this will help you, but you might get lost in some of the more complex transitions.
Either way, Eddie Bravo and his system kick butt!

Anyone interested in no gi grappling should buy this book. This book is very clear and well organized. There are some different and new ideas in this book that should expand your game. This book as well as EB first book Mastering the Rubber Guard are two of the best bjj books you can buy.

I am a book collector. Out of all of my children's books, this is on my top 10. It is such a cute story and sweet. I adore the pictures. I wish that there were more books about Moe. Buy this your kids will love it.

Because my daughter is only 1, the illustrations are paramount in chosing a bedtime story for her. A great story for the little ones to look at, and as they grow older, a nice story as well.

Moe the Dog in Tropical Paradise is a wonderful book. I liked it because Moe uses his imagination to find something to do over the weekend. He pretends to be in a tropical paradise. If you can't go there in real life you can be like Moe and pretend.
He shares his great ideas with his friend. I like to share my ideas with my friends too.

Michelle Anderson

Moe the Dog in Tropical Paradise is a wonderful book. I liked it because Moe uses his imagination to find something to do over the weekend. He pretends to be in a tropical paradise. If you can't go there in real life you can be like Moe and pretend. He shares his great ideas with his friend. I like to share my ideas with friends too.

I have to tell you, this book is FABULOUs!! I love reading it to my daughter, and she loves to sit quitely and listen, or help me tell the story. The illustrations are gorgeous, and the characters Moe and Arlene are completely likeable. Their tale is a real inspiration to everyone who needs a little pick-me-up. I only wish that there were more adventures of Moe and Arlene to read aloud and enjoy. Please make more!!

C.W. Nichol's recounting of his experiences learning the Martial Ways in Japan is a must for any serious practioner. This is a book I purchase for each of my students to give them an idea of what they should aspire to.

if you are interested in the martial culture, you must read this book. you will not be disappointed.

I have read this book probably about a half dozen times. Sadly it was out of print for a long time, but recently came back in to print with a new subtitle "One Man's Journey to the Heart of Karate". I never understood why it was out of print at all. This book is a classic, and is the one that all other martial arts autobiographies are measured against. And I should know because I have read them all (check out my book Martial Arts Biographies-An Annotated Bibliography if you don't believe me). This book is referenced in countless indexes of other books. It really gives a great history of karate in Japan during the 60s. Nicol describes living with other martial artists from the west such as Donn Draeger. If you haven't read it, I strongly urge you to pick up a copy, and read it today.

I just finished reading the book 'Moving Zen' for the second time. I had read it years ago, aoubd the late 70's, and I liked it back then. I can relate to many of the stories Mr. Nicol relates. Originally , I had trained in the Kenkojuku Shotokan--it is different than the JKA shotokan mentioned in the book.-- and since my training has changed to the modern approach of mixed-martial arts type training. Nonetheless, I still enjoy Nicol's book. If you want to get an insider's look to what it was like training in the JKA, and in Japan... it is a must read.

osu,

A. Bustillo

Nicole Sensei writes about his experiences in Japan starting from his arivel in 1962 to learn Karate and Judo. This book has inspired me to continue my training in Shotokan Karate even though I don't curently have enough money to go to a dojo. He also speaks about the little yet important ocurences that had inspired him to continue on with his dreams. One day i wish to have similar experiences and maybe met the man who wrote such an inspiring novel.

LOVE Muhammad Ali - always have - didn't know alot about the young 19 year old Cassius Clay. The boy who becomes the man who is Muhammad Ali - This book tells some interesting stories about Cassius - I'm not sure why I'm suprised, or how I seperated the two in my mind...I mean...they are the same person...and you can see how Cassius is Muhammad - think to when you were 19 and imagine if your greatest qualities grew and become better etc -

Anyway - the book is really good - not 5 star, but 4 - I would have liked MANY more pictures of Cassius and more stories too - I was left wanting more - which is normally a good thing - but here it felt somewhat incomplete

Don't missunderstand - I would buy this again and buy it as gift for folks - if you don't have it - get it - it will make you smile

This is a book that's hard to put down. Just when you've thought you had read all you can read about Ali, a book like this comes along. The pictures make you feel as if as though you were there yourself. This was one of the best gifts I've ever received. I plan to pass this treasure on to many for Christmas.

I received this book as a gift and I find myself going back to it over and over. Like going back to a museum time and again to look at a favorite work of art. The photographs of Clay/Ali are so personal and so beautiful. Odd as it sounds, I feel grateful that Mr. Schulke has shared these photographs with me, with everyone lucky enough to discover them. I came to Amazon just now to order this book for a friend and found myself moved to write these few words. There's something about the book and about the story of Clay/Ali that wants to be shared.

If you are a fan of Muhammad Ali or sports photography, you'll find this book a joy to read. The book focuses on Flip Schulke's black and white photographs of Ali that were taken on a few occasions from the early to mid-1960s. Flip's comments about the photos and Ali provide rare glimpses into Ali's early penchant for showmanship and the racial prejudice that affected his views. If you admire Ali for his impact in the boxing, social and political arenas, this book will bring tremendous joy to your heart.

This book is worth the price for the pictures of 19 year old Ali alone. I have been an Ali fan since I was 12, and I have never seen these pictures before! Ali was 19, and made up a story about how he worked out in a swimming pool, so that the photographer would take underwater photos. They are incredible. So is the fact that, even though he had already won a gold medal, he wasn't allowed to try on clothes in a Miami department store because he was black.There are pictures of him running 5 miles to the gym in his dress pants and work boots, because he didn't have gym clothes! I can't stop looking at these pictures, and I can't believe how brave he was and how hard he had to work.

Great job product arrived on time. The book we ordered was in great condition. I would definately order from you again

The book was good. Cope takes you through the golden years of the Steelers and gives you a behind the scene look at the players, coaches, and the Rooneys. He's got some great stories as well and his honesty is clearly evident throughout the book. This is a must read for any Steelers fan especially one who lived through the Super Bowls of the 70's.

Myron is unquestionably the king of Pgh. Reading this book brought back a ton of fond memories from when I lived in the 'Burg. I highly recommend to anyone who has Pgh ties or is at all familiar with Myron.

To grow up in Pittsburgh during the 1970s a Steeler fan is to grow up loving Myron Cope and this book is a great example of why we love Myron. It is Cope at his most honest and revealing. He does not portray himself as something he is not, but as a flawed man who has worked hard and lived a great life. Of course there are the terrific tales of the Steelers' teams that Cope has covered from the broadcast booth and the characters that have populated them. Any Steelers fan will enjoy this book.

Double Yoi is the one of the best books that I have ever read. It is truely an entertaining read. It is a well written biographical look at Myron Cope's career in journalism and broadcasting as well as a combination of some of his favorite anecdotes. Any one who loves Myron Cope should read this book as well as those who hate him. I think that they will find a new appreciation for the Pittsburgh Icon. Cope also threw in some criticisms of things and people he doesn't really care for but he does this in a classy way. I am a huge Steeler fan but I don't think that one needs to be to enjoy this book.
Great Job Myron!!

Sometimes I forget how wonderful friendship is. Being a young girl, I love my friends very much. I cherish and enjoy the time I spend with them. Friends can help you dance to your own rhythm, help your flower bloom, help your dreams come true. New Moon's new book about friendship, definitely supported these feelings of mine. There will never be anyone more wonderful than the people we love, and those people are our friends. I think what made this book so wonderful for me was how inspirational friendship was expressed within its pages. The poems and stories made me realize how our friends can be inspirations for our writings, for our art. Friends not only illustrate feelings, they let our feelings blossom. I am so happy to read this book, because from reading it, I know someone is supporting my feelings.

This book was written by girls just like you. It will make you laugh, smile and even cry. But most of all it will give you a wonderful sense of self confidence and help you reach out and make friends. I highly reccomend it, that is, if you want to be sure of yourself in friendships, self confident and happy with your friends. I give it a big smile and two thumbs up!

I'm a girl editor for this book. I feel that there is not enough writing out there by girls for girls. This book is just that:by girls and for girls. I feel that girls and sports mix wonderfully. They let you free to jump, kick and just be you. They let your spirit free. You don't have to worry about getting dirty(not that you have to worry anyway) and you can let passion fly. This should be known by all girls. All girls should know the adrenaline rush in jumping into a pool or surfing or kicking a ball to a teammate. This book shows you, you can go out there and get the rush of feeling strong and being part of something bigger than just you. This book shows you girls and women who are great athletes or just girls who enjoy sports. It gives you some advice on how to get started in a sport and helps you find your particular sport made just for you. I know that I have put my heart into this book for all girlkind and hope I have opened girls eyes to the wonderful opportunities they have in sports and how they can take hold of those opportunities and fly. This book is only one in a series of books written by me and seven other girls as a source for girls and their dreams. We want girls to know that they can pursue anything they want. If you have an opportunity, take it. If you have a passion, follow it. Please, disregard my rating and rate it for yourself.

Girls thrive, learn, question and speak through their friendships. From secrets to shyness and boys as friends, New Moon's Friendship book, created by girls themselves, is a robust account of the essence of relationships penned by the voices of girls for their fond readers. I facilitate conferences and workshops for young women all over the country and have researched many successful methods to support healthy self-concept in girls. Girls are impassioned and curious about their relationships with other girls and are anxious to read and talk about shared experiences. They often become confused about competition, anger, trust and loyalty among their peers. These fun girl pages, filled with interviews, stories and advice, are springboards for discussions and connections with parents, educators, advocates and all kinds of adolescent girls. An essential for girls and girl-advocates!

As a mom of an 11-year-old, I look for books which are supportive of friendships, against cliques, and supportive of maintaining individuality and integrity despite peer pressure. This book does it all.

I am an author and scholar in the field of women's athletics, and this book is among the very best I have come across. Mariah Nelson provides an inspiring introduction, and the chapters cover a wide variety of sports from basketball to track and field to equestrian events. Each chapter is written by a different author, and they all bring unique voices to the mix. Editor Lissa Smith has done a great job of making it all hang together.

"Nike is a Goddess" is highly recommended to anyone interested in the history of women in sports.

--Vince Prygoski, author of "Worst to First, or, a 'Shock'ing tale of Women's Basketball in Motown" (available through Amazon.com)

I would really like to exhale now that someone finally gave props to the female basketball players who have great talent, but are not in the WNBA or Over Seas playing on a "professional level". Nike is a Goddess went "underground"to the best pro-am basketball tourney for woman at West 4th.ST. in NYC. These are the woman who have played for years in college and many other pro-am basketball tournaments. These woman are "street legends" of NYC.
These woman are excellent players, professionals, mothers and SUPERB basketball players. I'm so glad someone noticed, Thanx!

I was so impressed with this book that I plan to include it in a graduate-level college course about women's sports.

There are 13 essays about various sports and also includes and introduction and conclusion. Some of the essays were better than others, usually because of the sport the essay examined. Babe Didrikson is featured in more than one essay, which highlights her significance to women's sports. The essays really draw attention to the many contributions many women, who's names are not commonly known, have brought to their sports. As a knowledgeable sports fan I enjoyed learning new things about female athletics. The essay's covered Track and Field, Baseball and Softball, Tennis, Golf, Canoeing Kayaking, Rowing Sailing, Skiing, Figure Skating, Swimming, Equestrian Sports, Gymnastics, Soccer, Ice Hockey, and Basketball. I totally skipped the Boating, Equestrian, and Ice Hockey essays and skimmed the Skiing essay. These sports don't interest me even in men's sport (except Ice Hockey, but I can't buy the women's version of the sport). I would recommend this book and I'll keep it in case my 6 year old daughter one day wishes to learn more about one or more of these sports.

A MUST for all young women of today -truly inspirational. A comprehensive and significant book.