Coach: Lessons on the Game of Life by Michael Lewis
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Book Reviews of Coach: Lessons on the Game of Life
Book Review: Must Read Book
Summary: 5 Stars
As a former High School and College Baseball player, and a current high school baseball coach, I have never read a book that epitomizes youth baseball today more than this one. Lewis' description of his experiences, and his coaches experiences, regarding todays parents/athletes could not be better. Every parent of a youth/high school athlete should read this book before they even consider complaining to their child's coach. I am only in my mid 20's and I can relate to many of the experiences described in this book. It's a very quick read as well. If I could give it 100 stars I would. For those readers who complained about the length of the book, yes it is a quick read but the book only costs 10 dollars. Anyone who is looking for a lengthy book should know not to purchase a book that is 90 pages long. For those of you who were, and then bought the book, that's your own fault. Great book. Book Review: Lessons On Society Losing Its Way
Summary: 5 Stars
Best selling author (Moneyball, Liar's Poker, and the New New Thing), Michael Lewis has written a little (90 pages) jewel with "Coach." Lewis reflects on his life at Isidore Newman School and the impact that his baseball coach and teacher, Billy "Fitz" Fitzgerald, had in shaping his life.
Fitz entered Lewis's mind at age 12 and has stayed there ever since. Think about that rare teacher or coach that has stayed with you into your adult life; reminisce with Lewis as he rediscovers the attributes of this relationship and its impact on his life.
Lewis's learning that a former player was organizing an effort to remodel the old gym and have it named after Fitz served as the catalyst for the book. While the cash was pouring in from former players and the parents of former players, current players and their parents were doing all that they could to persuade the headmaster to get rid of him.
This conflict allows Lewis to contrast a time when Fitz worked tirelessly to give boys a sense that their lives could be something other than ordinary to what is happening today. Fitz effectiveness had ended as he had run up against the culture of "kids being bestowed with a sense of self-esteem at birth."
The system of values he attempted to instill is no longer in alignment and was now more difficult than those of the parents and of the greater society. They are not in sync; they are no longer tolerated.
"Coach" transcends the events surrounding Fitz and the gym revealing the dark side of a society that has lost its way with honorable values and meaning.
Book Review: Coach
Summary: 5 Stars
Passionately written by a gentleman who came to respect his baseball coach almost as much as he loves the children to whom he dedicated the book.
Must reading for the coaches, teachers, scout leaders, and all those others of "influence" over the next generation.
Michael Lewis is a wonderful writer; I suspect, after reading this, an equally great parent. I highly recommend this book to those either in the midst of or contemplating raising children.
Book Review: Don't Buy This (But Not For The Obvious Reason)
Summary: 3 Stars
How in the world could I give "Coach" a three star rating but suggest, "don't buy it?"
It's a fun, quick read with a few nuggets -- definitely worth a read.
But... you can finish it in 20 minutes. Of the 93 pages, at least 12 are photos. (I've read longer newspaper columns.)
I suggest you go to Borders or Barnes and Noble and buy a medium coffee. Before your coffee gets cold, you'll be done with this book.
Then if you really like Lewis' writing, purchase, "Moneyball." It's a tremendous look at the business side of baseball.
Book Review: Short Inspirational Read
Summary: 4 Stars
I believe this was a nice, short read. I wasn't expecting miracles from this tiny book but I do believe it was a nice, heart-warming story with some good life "reminders" in it.