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Book Reviews of Eli Manning: The Making of a QuarterbackBook Review: Reporting...the way it is supposed to be done. Summary: 5 Stars
What sticks out above everything else in this very well-researched account of Eli Manning, is Vacchiano's startling ability to draw the reader in emotionally.
In particular - Vacchiano's gripping account of that famous final drive in the Super Bowl against the undefeated New England Patriots. Having watched - glued to the screen, waiting for Manning to implode, and yet he didn't - that gut-scrambling final 2-plus minutes, I can say it was some of the very best drama football has produced. What is remarkable is that Vacchiano, through his writing, matches the virtuoso moment. The fact that readers were already well aware of the outcome, makes this an even more astonishing feat of writing.
I ripped through those last 40 pages, even though I knew what the end result was...
The tendency in books like this is for the writer to gush over the subject...accolade after accolade. Vacchiano steers away from the expected. At times, it's a harsh, clinical evaluation of the subject.
Vacchiano, as every reporter writing a book should do (but few accomplish), taps on a wealth of resources. Former Giants Ernie Accorsi writes the forward and is quoted throughout...but there are also dozens of others involved.
This is not only a must-but for Giants' fans, but for fans of solid writing (ahh, that drama!) as well.
A stirring achievement by one of the best football beat writers in America.
Book Review: Ralph Vacchiano Pens a Winner! Summary: 5 Stars
I too admit to being a long-time and fierce New York Giants fan and "from the start" Eli Manning fan. I knew that when Eli was placed into the starting line-up, we would have to endure growing pains and tough losses as he developed both as a quarterback and a leader for the New York Giants.
Ralph Vacchiano perfectly captures the nuances of what Eli has meant to Ernie Accorsi (then GM), the Giants, the fans and the NFL. Ralph uses an interesting and perfectly suited style of writing from an "outsider looking in" approach while still enjoying insider access and direct information that a veteran reporter has.
Having said that, Ralph doesn't bat you over the head with subjectivity. While he clearly respects and admires Eli and his family, he still maintains an objectivity that is both fresh and appealing. What differentiates this book from the multitude released in the past several months about the Giants Super Bowl Run or any other football book is the crafting and skill used. It is hard to put this book down and each chapter flows perfectly into the next. It is a compelling read.
Ralph is an excellent writer and this is an excellent book.
Neil Hickey, Reading, PA.
Book Review: Eli Manning, the making of a Quarterback Summary: 5 Stars
Eli Manning: The Making of a Quarterback: The Incredible Rise of the New York Giants
This is a must read book. Unlike the usual dry sports book, this book embraced the drama and passion of Eli's story like a classical novel.
It exposed the depth and weight of the pressure he endured so vividly and thoroughly that you can feel his burden, his pain and his frustration. It has brought to light the truth of Eli's proffessional journey and the arduous and overwhelming odds thrown at him. It will make you reevaluate this amazing young man and realize he is rightfully deserving of our respect and admiration and it will also give you a deeper appreciation and understanding of the demands put on a Quarterback and his foundational role on the team.
It is a book that gives the reader a story of courage, hope and perseverance that extends not only to the sports fan but to anyone that delights in stories of the triumph of the heart and spirit of a hero.
Book Review: Even if you don't like Eli this book is a must read! Summary: 5 Stars
Let me start off by saying that while I'm a huge Giants fan, I don't believe that a great playoff run automatically makes Eli an elite quarterback. Luckily, Ralph Vacchiano doesn't try to convince the reader that he is. His fair and honest account of Eli's emotional and professional development made me a big fan of this book. He not only details Eli's first camp throught his Superbowl MVP performance but provides the reader with and inside look into Payton and Eli's relationship as well as Eli's relationship with his NY Giants teammates. In addition, he does a fantastic job highlighting the complicated and emotionally charged series of events that brought Eli and eventually a Superbowl championship to NY. This book was hard to put down and is a must read not only for Giants fans but for football fans in general. You won't be disappointed.
Book Review: Eli Manning The Making of a Quarterback Summary: 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It gave many insights into his personality and the development of this Super Bowl MVP quarterback. There were many exciting moments like what took place in the draft room leading up to the trade of Eli to the Giants. The relationship of Eli to his family was very interesting. It explains a lot of what he is all about. Learned to admire Accorsi's conviction. Roethlisberger was my choice but Vacchiano makes it clear that in the end Eli is the guy. The stage was set for the drafting of Eli with the ineptitude of Danny Cannel, Dave Brown, and Kent Graham. Then came Collins who looked for a while like the answer. Never knew exactly why Kerry Collins left until I read the book. A great read for a football fan. A must read for a Giant fan. A wonderful book.
William R. Gillen
More Customer Reviews: 1 2 3
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