Sports Books

In the world of sports, leadership is one of the major keys to success. Team leaders are often the difference between successful and unsuccessful seasons. The Team Captain's Leadership Manual is essential to all coaches and athletes looking to achieve success in sports, school, and life. The Team Captain's Leadership Manual is filled with surveys, assessments, and questionnaires designed to measure if you possess the skills needed to be a leader, and how you can build upon those skills to become a better leader. Different people lead differently, which author Jeff Janssen recognizes in this book, yet he also establishes the several attributes that most good leaders share--commitment, composure, determination, and an ability to inspire those around them.
Every aspect of leadership is covered in this comprehensive manual, which makes it an unbelievable resource for both players wanting to increase their leadership potential and coaches looking to improve the way their players work together as a team. What's also great about the Team Captain's Leadership Manual is that it is backed by those in actual leadership positions, with quotes, examples, and ideas from famous and well-respected coaches and athletes. The Team Captain's Leadership Manual gives an exact step-by-step process on how to lead by example and ways to become a more vocal leader, with an emphasis on encouraging your teammates, building team chemistry, and managing team conflict. I recommend this book for all college and high school athletes, coaches, and athletic departments who want to develop responsible and effective leaders. As an athlete and a team captain I recommend this book to anyone who is looking to improve any aspect of their leadership skills.

This is perhaps one of the most important books I have read as a coach. It was very concise and offered excellent suggestions. It was written to I could relate and the players will be able to relate. I am going to implement this book as a preseason tool to better develop leaders and team chemistry. This book will be very thought provoking and bring alot of things out that normally wouldnt have been thought of.

The step by step process is excellent and really makes alot of sense. Jeff Janssen did a great job with it, I just wish it wasnt so expensive...

I know how important leadership is to the success of any group and yet I didn't have a methodical, clear and consise way of teaching the players/leaders on my team what it takes and what it means to be a leader. I used this book extensively this past year and it is the first time that I felt our team leaders had the information they needed to be effective....and they were! Jeff's book will be used by my program as long as I'm a coach.

Being a lifelong gamer and someone who spent close to 2 1/2 years immersed in Final Fantasy online, I loved this book. You must enjoy RPG games to enjoy this book I feel. It's quite the different twist on the world being "destroyed" and a new form of government. In Epic the government is run by Central Allocations and everything takes place inside the game. People still live outside the game, but that's really only to get by. It's kind of scary to have it in writing how an online game can take over your life or the life of a world. What did throw me, was how the game came alive. I'll say no more to avoid spoiling it. I highly recommend this book to all sci-fi and game loving folks. Young and old.

When i first picked up Epic, i thought, "Eh, sounds okay." When i opened the book and started reading, "Somewhat interesting." When i put the book down after nonstop reading for five hours, no words could describe it. Epic is probably the best book i have read, and i have read a ton of books.

Epic is set in a world where there is no violence allowed. Saga is the new worlds legal, government, and economic system, and everyone plays it. Erik is one in a million, one who doesn't work in the game, he plays the game. He looks outside of the game and sees that his world is slowly dying, everything in this society is wrong.

More than that, the game is no longer just a game. It has evolved into something more, and it takes Erik to find out how to save his world by beating epic.

A terrific video-game-based fantasy that also works as social commentary. In a world where we could desperately use joint social action, why are we wasting our precious time on video games and other similar distractions dreamed up by corporate America? This book will be devoured by good upper-elementary readers too; it is unclear why the publisher says it is for 8th graders and up. For anyone familiar with Heir Apparent, this one is even better.

This is a wonderful book. I bought it for my 10 year old, but I really enjoyed reading it. It may be best suited for 12+ year olds because of the vocabulary, but it is a fascinating story.

Set in an SF world of an established colony long out of communication with the motherworld, the action quickly unfolds as a MUD adventure in Cindella's quest for the Holy Grail of real world democracy, and the genuine opportunity to reconstruct the matrix of society itself.

Billed as "Junior", its audience is much broader. Epic is an excellent tale. The themes are contemporary and serious. The action is fun. Epic is a look at the possibilities of what could be in an age that implements advanced electronic interaction.

At 62 years of age, I am pleased to find a well constructed novel that not only is a good yarn, but that also has absolutely no need for the trite distractions that publishers, editors, and sadly many authors seem to aim at shocking sensibilities or impassioning desires.

I stopped here today to buy the sequel, Saga. If you have traveled in the world of a classic Multi-User Domain, my word to you is: "Choose your character well. Arm youself with two swords. Use the key. And sit down for a good read."

My boys (9 and 14) have read many of Matt Christopher's books. All are good, some are great treats. I gave a copy of "The Kid Who Only Hit Homers" to each boy on my baseball team last year. They loved it! This year I am giving each player a copy of Christopher's "Great Moments." I read this collection of great moments (an unassisted triple play in the World Series for example) to my boys and enjoyed every page. We re-read some of the stories they were so much fun. This is a must read for all young/new baseball fans.

I found this book to be very good. Its reading level is 9th grade or so but that didnt stop this 41 year old from enjoying it. The book talks about 9 great moments in baseball and shares a few interesting perspectives on the game. Every fan should know of these charming and touching moments. If you love the game check it out.

In Great Moments In Baseball History, you can learn a lot about some of the greatest players in major league history. Matthew Christopher, the author of this book, put together his view of a 9 tremendous, and courageous pitching performances, hitting clinics, catches, and life stories in this book. Some people who are in the book are strong, courageous, have stamina, but most of all, each person has their own little characteristic different than everyone else's. Anyone who asks me about this book, all I have to tell them is that it is a great read and a wonderful grouping of stories that any true baseball fan can enjoy time and time again.
All of these stories are incredible in their own special way. For example, there is a story about a pitcher who only had one hand and he threw a no hitter against a team who had in the previous week scored 7 runs against him, he showed to everyone that he had courage. Another story describes a pitcher who had cancer and was told that he would never pitch in the majors again, and it would be considered lucky to be able to play catch in the backyard with his son. Against all odds, after just 11 short months he was back in the majors and he was pitching great. Unfortunately he was diagnosed with cancer again and had his arm removed but he is still alive and well. Finally there is my favorite story of Joe Nuxhall who pitched in his first ever major league game at the tender young age of just 15. Although he was nervous he pitched well and was signed to a contract with the Cincinnati Reds at 16 years old (he was the youngest player ever to play major league baseball).
Matthew Christopher added great little details to every story to kind of add some drama to each one. For example, he told the audience how even though Babe Ruth was old and out of shape he could still hit three homeruns in a baseball game and have fun doing so. Another example is in the story of the pitcher with cancer, Christopher added in the detail of how he "might" be able to play catch with his son in the backyard to add some drama to the already dramatic situation. There are also so great word usages in the stories and he places every one of them in the perfect spot to help the reader make sense of everything.
Great Moments In Baseball History is a great book about heart warming, funny, and enlightening stories and people. Every story is different and exciting in that one special way that you can always remember. Also the author describes everything very well and it is easy to understand every word that is being said. Finally you can learn a lot from every person in the book and a piece of their life that may reach out and touch your own life.

Matt Christopher is one of the best baseball writers for young readers out there. This is another notch in his belt. Pick this up.

This is an invaluable read for anyone involved with coaching. The first chapters on Bowerman's ancestors also offer some insights into Oregon life in the small towns in the late 1800's early 1900's. Finally, the book is well written and easy to read. All around a worthwhile experience!

This is one of the first biographies that I could not put down. Bowerman was so much more than a running coach. This is a must read for any runner.

Bowerman was one of the best XC and Track coaches in the Nation. His story is captured in this books and tells remarkable tales of his life that will live in distance runners hearts for years to come. This is a must get book and is much better than any other book even Running with the Buffalos. Dont pass this book up!!!

Even though I am a big track and field fan, and I even went to the NCAA National T & F Championship meet at Oregon in 1962, I never realized how big an influence Bill Bowerman was on his athletes and on the whole state of Oregon.

This well-researched volume gives the reader a true understanding of Bowerman-the-man, his roots and his impact on Oregon society. It was a wonderful read and an inspiring personal journey.

ive been a packer fan since the lombardi era, but only vaguely knew the pre-50s history of this franchise and players, this is a well researched and informative history of the earlier years . there are lots of pics and sidebars highlighting the packers own hall nof fame greats, as well as how the fans and citizens of green bay have stuck by this team through many trials and financial hardships . in the fight for survival,( that is the money generated to keep a pro franchise in town), this book exposes the great character and love of a city and its inhabitants to support above and beyond the call of duty, the glory as well as the lean times , my love for this, the last of the small town teams from the beginnings of the nfl has renewed my passion and makes me want to move to green bay to live the dream, unique among the nfl and at the top!!!!!!!!!

This book gives a comprehensive history of Green Bay Packers from the beginning. It highlights great players and coaches. It is hard to put down.

Very good reading for a Green Bay Packer fan.

This is a great book. A very comprehensive history of the team with tons of great photos. I would definitely recommend this book to any fan of the team!

I purchased this book for my brother as a Christmas present. Upon receiving the book I shared it with several fans and they were so excited. I thought it was a great book and know that my brother is going to Love It!!!! We have been Packer fans since the 60's.

My 88-year-old father grew up in Wisconsin. He's a lifelong Packer fan. I haven't seen or read the book, but he's absolutely enthralled by it. We talk frequently, and he brings the book up often. Every page has a memory for him.

So, don't take my word for it: take the word of a man who watched Don Hutson catch passes on b.ustery Green Bay Sundays.

The most boring tennis book I ever read.I bought almost every single tennis book Amazon has to offer, and this one is by far the dullest one.This book is not aimed at the serious tennis player.You'll learn nothing new from it.It's just a personal journal where he keeps trying to take the focus away from tennis. The only conclusion I arrived to is that Blake's life without tennis is boring as hell.

Interesting, inspiring, uplifting story. Reminds us that there are still a lot of GOOD people in this world.

A good and enjoyable lesson for people of all ages, athletes and couch potatoes alike. After reading, you will be a James Blake fan, even if you have never seen a tennis match.

This is by far a must read for any person. Realizing the hardships and injuries for Mr. Blake to overcome is incredible. The best part about reading his book is the way you view life and to understand everything happens for the best.

Towards the end of the book there is a chapter on his friends who he calls the J-BLOCK. People would kill to have something like that Today, and the best part about it is he is so great full to be where he is today.

This is a refreshing and inspirational story, one that leaves your mouth open as you witness and experience the challenges that Blake went through, as well as leave you with a smile and a pump of the fist as he slowly and steadily built himself back up. Most people would not overcome such devastating life experiences in such quick succession, at least not as well as he did. But this was what Blake did when, after he broke his neck, lost his father to cancer and came down with zoster, he was able to climb back in the rankings and do better than he had ever done before, winning two titles (he had only won one previous tournament in his career) and getting to the quarterfinals of the US Open, catapulting himself to a ranking of 23 from a low of 210 in 2005, then to 4th by the end of 2006 (with an additional 5 tournaments).

This is an up front and honest account of Blake's personal life, bringing the reader into a world that is hard to understand. We get to see some of the inner workings of the tour, as well as some of what tennis pros go through in their day to day life, but not too much.

This is, of course, not meant to be a day to day memoir of his experiences on the tennis court. Some may pick this up thinking they will get to read about tennis a lot more than is present, but this was never Blake's intention. After all, the subtitle of his book is "How I Lost Everything and Won Back My Life". So instead of a book crammed full with tennis thoughts on matches and other players, we get to witness through Blake's words what he went through, starting with where he came from and going through where he eventually got to at the end of 2006. It is clear that it was his father who played such a huge role in his life and this biography is an homage to him. Additionally, Blake reiterates how much of an impact his coach had on him through his philosophic style of coaching.

I think this is definitely the way to go, besides not straying from what he intended to write upon, and has helped paint a picture of himself that is sure to gain him many fans and inspire many more. His writing is easy and enjoyable and flows from beginning to end. I've always been a fan of Blake, even before I knew what had happened to him in 2004, and after reading Breaking Back I am an even bigger fan. I definitely recommend this book to any interested.

4 stars.

Let me preface my comments by saying that Blake is one of my favorite tennis players. After having watched (and enjoyed) him in so many matches I was very interested in what he might reveal about himself in this book. While Blake certainly hasn't missed his calling by not being a professional writer, he nonetheless has crafted a readable and entertaining first effort with "Breaking Back." I was immediately engaged as I began reading this book because of Blake's relentless honesty - with regard to himself, the game, and the important people in his life. No pretense here. Blake isn't trying to impress, he's trying to convey a message about love, loss, and redemption; and in his own way he accomplishes his goal in an effective and emotionally touching way. To state the obvious, all of us either have or will face various adversities in life of one kind or another. But few of us will lose as much as James did, and even fewer will become stronger and better people for having undergone the experience. To summarize: A sudden convergence of events in Blake's life mounted a remorseless attack on everything that held meaning for him. Lesser men would have fallen, but Blake dug deep and he fought back. He overcame. And we're all better for it because he chose to share the experience with us. When I turned the last page of this book I was thankful to have spent some time with this gifted and special young man. As he relates, he has a number of close friends. I'd like to be one of them. Whatever his faults, this man has qualities that made his parents proud, as they should have been. And you'll be a better person for having invited James Blake into your life through a reading of this moving memoir.

My boyfriend checked this out from the library (to learn knots for his sailboat ropes) and loved it so much that I got him his own copy :-) He says it is the best knot book ever made! The photos are amazing and super easy to understand, and this book is so useful! It shows ALL types of knots and even shows how to make a net (using a bunch of knots). **This book also came JUST in time for our fishing trip out out on his sailboat - I had never fished before and didn't know how to knot the fishing line onto the hook. This knot book had super easy illustrations for me to understand, and it shows maybe 3-4 handy fishing knots. :-) Very helpful for both me and my boyfriend.

When I got this book, I was looking for a book that covered a good variety of knots, had easy, understandable instructions, and had very clear pictures - not drawings, and this book is exactly that. Not only was I impressed, but my entire family was extremely impressed with how easy it is to understand this book! The pictures are very, very clear, and the instructions are very easy to understand. I honestly don't think you could "out-do" this book in how the instructions are presented.

This book is sturdy and will last many years. This book has good illustrations and has really helped me to learn several knots easily.

This guide to knots makes a great reference book for scoutmasters or anyone needing to know more about knots. This also makes great recreational material.

This is one great book both to own and to give to someone just because you want to.
Easy to follow instructions and some great knots to show off your skill. I keep it on the coffee table for all to see.
Is anyone bored? Tie a knot...

Like hockey, baseball too has its own sacred code of honor. While it differs somewhat in scope from its icy brethren, the baseball code, like hockey, is also all about respect and disrespect. Baseball is a game steeped in tradition with rules dating back to the game's inception more than 150 years ago. Yet, while the code has been around since the early days of the game, it still remains a very taboo subject shrouded in a veil of secrecy. In fact, most players are downright uncomfortable talking about it on the record. You see, if they did, then that would be acknowledging that a code actually exists at all. Ross Bernstein, the author of 40 sports books, brings it all to life with the help of some 100 current and former Major Leaguers who he interviewed for the project.
The game of baseball is governed not only by an official rulebook, but also, and maybe more importantly, by an unwritten rulebook which is otherwise known as the code. It's the game within the game. So, just what is the baseball code? It is a system of intimidation, retribution and retaliation between pitchers and hitters; all in an effort to keep the game on an even playing field. Fear, and the fear of excruciating pain, plays a huge role in baseball. It takes a brave man to stand in front of a 95 mph fastball and not be intimidated when it comes flying straight towards his face. That fear, of being hit and injured, is what keeps the players honest. It is the basis for the code.
The wheels of the code are sent into motion when any number of certain situations occur on the field. For instance, when a teammate gets plunked, retaliation of some sort is required -- typically a retaliatory plunking of a similar caliber player on the opposing team. This of course changes if the game is a National League game, where pitchers are required to bat and there are no designated hitters. Pitchers in the NL understand that they are fair game if they so choose to drill a batter. These nuances between the American and National Leagues are all a part of the intricacies of the code.
With regards to the actual act of plunking the batter, there are many messages and meanings to consider. For starters, it is generally understood that when retaliating, it is a no-no to throw above the shoulders. There is a fine line between "chin music," and a rising fast ball to the head which leaves the batter no chance to duck out of the way. One is a nonverbal threat, a warning shot over the bow, so to speak. The other, meanwhile, is extremely serious and can permanently injure or even kill the batter.
Other innuendos which may require retaliation include such things as a hard slide to break up a double play at second base; or a batter celebrating too much after hitting the ball out of the park and then taking his sweet time to trot around the bases. This is considered very disrespectful to the pitcher and will be dealt with the next time the batter comes to the plate. Nobody likes to be showed up in baseball, and that is a lesson that sometimes must be learned the hard way. It is just understood that when you hit a homer, you had better get on your horse and start running. If you want to smile and gaze at the ball with love and affection as it clears the fence, then you better not think about digging in the next time you come to bat... because you will more than likely get nailed.
Exceptions to this rule might include a guy like Sammy Sosa, who jumps like a ballerina as he tosses his bat and then blows his trademark kiss as he is about to round first. Pitchers know that this is just Sammy being Sammy, no disrespect. Other guys like Barry Bonds, who stands there and watches the ball land in the outfield seats from home plate, they are detested. Bonds is also despised because he wears hockey-like elbow pads which allow him to crowd the inside part of the plate with no fear of being plunked. On the other hand, pitchers know that the code frowns upon plunking future Hall of Famers. So it goes both ways.
Further innuendos may include a pitcher trying his damndest to prevent back-to-back-to-back homers in an inning. The third guy up is going to get nailed because no pitcher wants to give up a hat-trick, or he will find himself on the bench pretty quickly. Even jumping on the first pitch with aspirations of hitting if out of the park may warrant a pitcher taking offense. It just depends on the situation. It is also OK to bowl over the catcher when trying to score at home plate, but not if the catcher has left a lane for the runner to slide by safely. It is also a no-no for a middle infielder to pretend to catch a ball to trick the runner or hitter. The same is true for a base runner who tries to trick the infielder by yelling or lunging at him to get him to drop a fly ball. Those things will get you drilled. Baseball players have memories like elephants and will get even, even if that means waiting weeks, months or into the next season.
And here is another thing: If a batter gets nailed with a 95 mph fastball on the fleshy part of his thigh, he had better not act like a baby and start rubbing it. No way. He should suck it up and be a man by simply "walking it off" on his way to first base. Period. A batter can never let a pitcher know that he hurt him with a pitch, that would be a psychological advantage and a clear sign of weakness. The code forbids it unless he is knocked unconscious or bleeding bad enough to warrant some medical attention.
Another innuendo which may require retaliation occurs when either the batter or a base-runner sneaks a peek at the catcher's signs to the pitcher. If a batter is caught doing so, he will be nailed. If the base-runner is caught doing so, when he is on second base and has a clear view of the catcher's hand signals, and then relays what the upcoming pitch or pitch location is to the batter, then he too will be dealt with accordingly. In addition, stealing the third base coach's hand signal signs for communicating orders such as base-stealing, bunting or to hit-and-run, are also part of the code, and may warrant retribution. Sign stealing plays a big part of the code. Doing it with your eyes to figure out the poker-tells is kosher; using electronics or technology is outright cheating. Both have been a part of the game for more than a 100 years.
Plunkings are just a part of the game and players understand this. The pitchers do too, which is why it is oftentimes tough for them to have to plunk an innocent bystander who may even be a personal friend outside of the white lines. The batters know the situations and usually know when it is coming, and they accept it. They also know the history of bad blood between certain players or between certain teams. Maybe there were words spoken after a game; or in the media; or even a blow-out game that was deemed as disrespectful -- all or any of those things may warrant a plunking. Or, perhaps a flame-thrower such as Pedro Martinez is simply carrying a grudge. Needless to say, there are many reasons as to why retaliation strikes may occur.
Pitchers are so accurate, to within millimeters, that they can place the ball with pinpoint precision exactly where they want it. If a player gets hit in a certain spot, and the situation is ripe for payback, then there is no doubt as to whether or not a bean ball is just that, versus a mis-thrown wild pitch. That's the ballplayer's intuition, or sixth sense, taking over.
The unwritten rules of baseball are not just about payback and retribution. In fact, there are many, many more fascinating aspects and innuendos to it. Situations such as what a hitter should do on a 3-0 count in a blowout game are a part of the code too. If he is swinging for the fences in that situation, then the opposing team will have reason for retaliation on grounds of disrespect by both the hitter as well as the manager who gave him the green light in that situation. Run up the score on a team and payback will be certain, that much is for sure.
It is also understood that you don't try to steal a base or bunt with a five or six-run lead in the last three innings of a game either -- that is considered rubbing it in and may warrant retaliation as well. Furthermore, a hitter shouldn't try to embarrass the pitcher off whom he just homered, and conversely, the pitcher shouldn't try to mock the hitter that he just struck out. The code goes both ways.
Other idiosyncrasies which may warrant a pitcher taking issue may include something as nonchalant as a batter trying to gauge the rhythm and speed of a pitcher while he is in the on-deck circle. This is deemed as unfair and disrespectful to the pitcher and he may take offense as soon as the batter steps into the batter's box. There are just certain things that you don't do on the ball field, and that is one of them. These unwritten rules of the code oftentimes are learned the hard way by trial and error and baptism by fire. It usually only takes one 95 mph fastball to the ribs to figure it out.
Sometimes the pitcher will just toss what's called a brush-back pitch, to get the batter to back off the plate a little bit. Nowadays it's called "throwing inside." Pitchers want the batter to be a little bit scared and to back off a bit, so that they can have the outside of the plate to their advantage with the umpire. Sometimes, however, the batter will not budge. That may warrant a plunking, depending on the situation. Other times, the batter may take offense, claiming that real estate next to the plate to be his, and his alone. When this happens, bench clearing brawls are oftentimes the end result of two alpha males barking loudly and holding their ground. When emotions take over, it's on, and the fans love it.
When a bench-clearer ensues, usually the batter will charge the mound. The catcher will try to tackle him from behind, but it all happens very quickly. Punches are thrown and serious injuries can occur in the ensuing melee. Pitchers have to stand their ground, but don't want to risk breaking a knuckle on their throwing hand by doing something foolish. It is a dangerous few seconds to be sure.
Players wear long metal spikes and foreign objects such as bats, gloves and catcher's masks oftentimes end up as part of the fray. Opposing players from both sides sprint in from their positions on the field and are joined by the reserves from both dug-outs, as well as the players from the outfield bullpens. Everybody pairs up and tries to make sure there are no unfair two-on-one scenarios. The umpires try to keep order, but things can get ugly in a hurry. The code says that if a guy charges the mound, then the rest of the team had better follow... or else. There is no room for cowards on a baseball team, so players know that they better "show up," or else they may find themselves sent down to the minors, or worse yet, traded or even released.
Other rules of charging the mound include the batter never bringing the bat with him. Back in the old days of baseball there are many a story about batters getting revenge on pitchers who nailed them with their 44 oz. hunks of lumber. Stories of players getting maimed are legendary, and are an ugly sidebar to the history of the game.
Most big league managers want their players to police the game themselves, rather than the umpires. Legendary manager Tony La Russa, of the St. Louis Cardinals, acknowledged in his book that he has ordered pitchers to retaliate and drill guys in certain situations. Probably every manager has done so, but few admit it publicly. A manager can't just yell out to his pitcher from the dug-out to plunk a batter, so he must have other creative ways of communicating to him about what he wants done. Those nonverbal innuendos are all part of the code. It might be a look or it might be a sign called in to the third base coach which is then relayed to the catcher. If justice needs to be served, then the pitcher must react and do as he is instructed -- or he too will be breaking the code.
The code has changed in recent years though, for better and for worse. Major League Baseball has gone through more than its fair share of heartache and controversy as of late and it has been forced to tighten its belt so to speak. The commissioner's office put a greater onus on umpires to reduce the number of benches-clearing brawls these days, and as a result a warning system was put into place back in 2001. Now, when an ump has reason to believe that a batter is being thrown at, he warns both teams instantly that the next hit batter, intentional or not, will result in the pitcher and manager both getting ejected from the game. A fine and suspension may ensue as well. This has changed the landscape of the code, forcing the players to change and evolve their tactics to conform to the new rules.
The code also deals with other random subtle issues on and off the field as well. Issues such as "what happens in the locker-room, stays in the locker-room..." are a big part of the player's code of honor. "Perks" that veteran ballplayers receive, such as the prime locker location in the clubhouse, may also be a part of the code. Other intricacies include: the media not talking to the starting pitcher until after he is done pitching. In fact, some managers don't even want their own players talking to the starting pitcher before or during a game, as to not mess with his mental preparation or perhaps for superstitious reasons. And a player knows never, ever to remind a pitcher at any point during a game that he has a no-hitter going. That can jinx it all in a nanosecond. Consider things like this to be "subchapters of the code."
Lastly, there is an entire section of the code that deals with the relationships between the players and managers, and the umpires. Just exactly what can be said and not said to an ump without getting tossed is an art form all to itself. It is just understood that players do not talk about the ump's mother, or he will be given a one-way pass to the club house. Knowing what to say, how to say it and when to say it are all a part of the code, and it can get pretty humorous for sure. Stories here are plentiful. Beyond that, it is generally understood that if a batter disrespects an ump or tries to show him up, then he will not be getting any special favoritism, or "good calls" in the future. Cross the line with an ump and he will make you pay one way or another. Some claim that there is a code within the code when dealing with the umpires.
The bottom line with baseball's unwritten rules is that it all comes down to one word: respect: respect of the game, respect of the past history of the game, and a respect of the opposition. The code, in a nutshell, is about players sacrificing individual glory for the good of the team. Professional baseball players make millions of dollars on the field, and for many, millions more off of it through endorsement deals. Players want to be individuals and stand out in the crowd. They have big egos and big personalities, which put a big "I" in team. But, they have to know that if they choose to showboat and act disrespectful towards an opposing pitcher or opposing team, then there is a price to pay for that type of selfish behavior. The code makes sure of that. That is why the game polices itself at this level.
The book will delve into many taboo subjects surrounding the code, including bench clearing brawls, the abolishment of the designated hitter, and even the issue of drugs and steroids in the "juiced ball era." Yes, the code is about respect, but it is also about how the game polices itself; accountability; and even about how players build team camaraderie amongst one another through intimidation and retaliation. It is amazing what standing up for a teammate can do for team morale. Boys will always be boys, and when a teammate gets nailed, intimidated or disrespected, then the wheels of retaliation are set into motion. It could be bad blood between two players or teams, or a heat of the moment incident -- either way, baseball players will always find a way to even the score. Welcome to the baseball code. Play ball!

My son and my daughter both responded to this book when only 2 or 3 months old - the animals have big eyes and friendly smiles, and when they peek at the baby reader, the baby responds with smiles, coos, and wriggling. Perfect first book. Sturdier than most flap books, but will get lots of loving use, so why not buy 2?

We love this series! Large, colorful illustrations and full page flaps makes this a great book for little ones new to reading. A perfect gift too!

They used to read this book frequently at reading times in Ohio when my daughter was in baby laptime. She always loved it and I gave it to a friend as a gift. She says that her daughter is really enjoying it as well.

This book is great. I not only have my own children but I own a child franchise and I read this book to our 10-13 mo. olds and 12-15 mo. They just stare and smile and try to grab every page.
I love this book.

Your little one will have plenty of fun pulling down the flaps in this colorful book. However, the large flaps in Peek-a-Moo! are thick paper and therefore easily tear and crease. Also, if you have a toddler who does not want or understand to close the flap back up with each page (such as the case with our 14-month-old daughter), you need to make sure the flaps are back up before you turn the page. Otherwise, they will hang out the bottom of the book, vulnerable to further damage from the wrath of an active toddler. We have other lift-the-flap books that have smaller, thicker flaps that automatically close when you turn the page (such as Dear Zoo--highly recommended), which are in much better condition.

I'm not a martial artist. I don't know anything about Jeet Kune Do like most of these reviewers. I grew up only knowing the western style of fighting, boxing at it's simplest level. Put up your hands, jab with your left and punch with your right.

Bruce's style is totally different. Everything is predicated on speed. Strikes are used with the knuckles of the last 3 fingers (middle, ring, and pinky) instead of middle finger and forefinger. Instead of turning the wrist over to at the end of the punch the wrist is kept straight. He used southpaw stance because 80% of the work is done with the lead hand and foot (he was right handed). All these techniques run counter intuitive with western style of boxing.

I appreciate reading about Bruce's workout techniques. It's really the reason I bought this book. I wish there were more. He talked about riding his exercycle, jogging, skipping rope, and a few abdominal exercises. There are numerous other workout techniques that involve a wooden dummy, punching bags, speed bags, etc, however those do not concern me too much. I have already incorporated jump rope into my daily routine which includes situps. I plan to practice hitting an 8 X 11 piece of paper with my elbows to learn body control.

Thanks to Bruce, I now feel like I will have an opportunity to really improve my fitness and coordination but only time will tell as to the results I will achieve.

I give this book 4 stars because it contains information that I can actually use in real life. I docked it one star because it contained too much information on stances (the on-guard stance in particular) which was incredibly boring and not at all what I needed.

Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Bruce Lee's and M. Uyehara's, "Bruce Lee's Fighting Method; Volume 2: Basic Training."

As is stated in the introduction to this and the other three volumes in the series, Bruce Lee never intended for these books to be published. However, since his untimely passing, his wife Linda decided that she would allow them to be published. Something we should all be thankful for.

What I will attempt to do in this review is to give you a well-rounded grasp of what Bruce has written and demonstrated for you in this series of books. Although nothing can replace the value of a qualified and competent instructor, a well written book can still provide you with a wealth of knowledge if you know how to realize it and obtain it.

1. The Fighting Man Exercises:

a. The importance of aerobic conditioning and exercises to increase your aerobic capacity such as; running, bike riding, jumping rope, etc.
b. Most martial artists neglect their actual physical workouts, thinking that practicing their particular martial art of and by itself is all you need to get into and stay in shape. This is not true! One must supplement their martial arts training with various muscle building and flexibility exercises.
c. You must constantly push yourself to become better than what you already are. If it comes easy, it generally isn't worth it.
d. How to warm-up properly in order to prepare your body for harder workouts without risking the chance of unnecessary injury due to the use of a well designed and executed warm-up routine.
e. Various flexibility exercises are shown using the trampoline and various body stretches.
f. Several different abdominal exercises are demonstrated as Bruce always felt that the abdomens were the major source of power in the martial arts.

2. The On-Guard Position:

a. Bruce goes really in-depth on a good fighting stance.
b. Looks at the disadvantages of more traditional or formal stances.
c. Bruce also talks a good deal about balance and how important it is to being effective with your techniques.

3. Footwork:

a. The basic principles behind your footwork are discussed.
b. Demonstrated and explained are the Forward and Backward Shuffle.
c. Demonstrated and explained are the Quick Advance and Retreat.
d. Demonstrated and explained is the Burst Forward.
e. Demonstrated and explained is Sidestepping.

4. Power Training; Punching Power:

a. How to correctly make a fist for punching.
b. Various training exercises utilizing the heavy bag, punching mitts, force shields, etc.
c. The use of canvas bags filled with everything from sand to steel filings in order to toughen the hands for impact.
d. The use of hand weights when practicing your punches.
e. The use of a staff across your shoulders to improve your body's ability to work in unison when punching.
f. Talks about using KI when punching and how to punch through your target, not at it.
g. Also discussed is "Pulling Power" and how to develop it with hand and forearm exercises.

Power in Kicking:

a. Flicky point style kicks are useless in self-defense.
b. How to develop striking power in your Side Kick.
c. The use of the heavy bag to develop power in your kicks.
d. The use of the kicking shield to develop power in your kicks.
e. How to add more power to your Front Kick by utilizing your hips correctly.

5. Speed Training:

a. Basic principles involved in training for speed in your techniques.
b. Developing punching speed.
c. Developing whipping speed for your Back Fist.
d. Developing speed in your Finger Jab by using a piece of paper.
e. Developing speed in your Lead Straight Punch.
f. Using equipment such as the double-end bag, punching mitts, and heavy bag to develop speed.
g. Developing a non-telegraphic punch.
h. Using concepts from fencing to enhance your speed and punching skills.
i. A very interesting use of a children's game to develop speed.

Speed in Kicking:

a. Principles and techniques of the Side Kick and Roundhouse Kick, which I find very interesting that Bruce calls the Roundhouse Kick a Hook Kick.
b. Various methods of developing speed in your kicks.
c. Awareness of your body and what it is doing when you are kicking.

Like any well written book, as much as you can learn from this book by reading it, you can learn just as much if not more by reading between the lines. I particularly enjoyed the simplicity of what Bruce was trying to relay throughout this and pretty much all of his books. What may work well for one person, may not work at all for another. Therefore, you as an individual needs to research the techniques that are out there and find those that work best for you and use them. Remember, there are no superior martial arts, only superior martial artists.

Bruce Lee's Fighting Method: Basic Training Vol. 2

Chapter 1 is sort of an overview of a number of exercises and the benefits of each exercise in conditioning the body to be a fighter. There is not much in this chapter, which you cannot find in other exercise or workout books. Furthermore, the practice of receiving blows from a medicine ball or moderately controlled punches to the abdomen is no longer recommended because we now know that receiving even moderate, controlled blows over time can cause damage to internal tissues and organs. Never the less, I am not going to say that there is nothing worth reading in this book. It's just that this book was written before the fitness craze gained momentum to the extent of becoming a cultural practice in the United States. Many people back then were out of shape and did not know how to exercise for better health and physical performance. Some still don't. To beginners, this chapter can serve as an introduction of the types of exercise for a fighter.

Chapter 2 explains in detail and illustrates Bruce Lee's unique right lead Jeet Kune Do guard stance, posture and benefits. Then, there are a series of photos of Dan Inosanto, Bruce Lee's famous student, posing in various classical guard positions, some of which look more like illustrations of moves in kata or forms. The book persuasively criticizes the various weaknesses of the classical guard stances. In defense of some classical positions criticized, however, some martial artists argue persuasively that these classical positions found in katas and forms are symbolic representations of effective fighting techniques being executed and do not represent stationary guard positions.
(See books by Rick Clark, Guy Trimble III, Ashley Croft and George Dillman for more on better interpretations of kata's symbolic representation of effective fighting techniques."

The Chapter on footwork is very basic and simple. It is almost boring. However, the important point to take note of is that moving quickly and effectiveness in fighting begins with being quick on the feet. Bruce lee's books are unique in that they emphasize elements such as distance, timing, speed, creating openings in the opponent's guard and observing the opponent's reactions and habits rather than reliance on techniques for this or that situation. So, it begins with footwork to move into range quickly to strike, to move out of range or side-to-side to avoid being struck and being ready to counter when an opening does appear. The later volumes build on ideas that require good footwork. So, it does start with this book to create a foundation of good footwork. After all, good technique and power is wasted if you can't deliver your strikes or kicks due to lack of speed or improper timing or distance.

The beginning martial artist reading this book might get the quickest results from this book in studying the chapters on power training and speed training. Anyone who understands how to combine the elements such as closing to a proper distance to be able to punch through the target, using harmonious movement of the body while keeping the muscles relaxed until the instant your strike makes contact will discover an alternative, more effective way to deliver a powerful strike rather than using the strength of the arm and upper body alone.

The last chapter on speed training offers 7 different ways to train for developing speed. Most of these training methods require a partner. The reader has to look for these in the context of the writing. There is also an interesting technique suggested for psychologically developing a better sense of timing and quickness of reaction near the end of the last chapter.

Beginners and young martial artist might not fully understand the value of the information in the series of books on Bruce Lee's Fighting Method and in his Tao of Jeet Kune Do.

There is also a video adaptation of this book available on VHS or DVD which features Richard Bustillo and Ted Wong, one of Bruce Lee's students, who also is seen in the photographs of the books.

VHS:

Bruce Lee's Fighting Method

Bruce Lee's Fighting Method

DVD:

Bruce Lee's Fighting Method - by Ted Wong and Richard Bustillo

Mito Uyehara was the founder and publisher of Black Belt magazine. Mito actually took privates from Bruce in his office according to staff legend. Mito also gave Bruce plenty of exposure in Black Belt, but the books in this series, Bruce Lee's Fighting Methods, are the true legacy of that relationship. Mito was very protective of Bruce's image and his admiration for him is as clear as the many photographs in these books.

Of course, Bruce Lee was always changing his methods and ideas about training. To what degree he would have stood behind this material some 40-years later has been the subject of much debate. The closest thing to a modern version of this series is How to Master Bruce Lee's Fighting Style by Lee student Joe Lewis, who credits much of his success to principles he learned while working with Bruce Lee.

But, "never take your eyes off the finger, or you will miss a great book for any Bruce Lee fan."

Bruce Lee covers the basics and foundations of training.

All too often martial artists focus their energies on techniques without developing or preparing the body for such techniques.

This volume covers:

1) Aerobic Conditioning - running vs jumping rope
2) Stretching
3) Core muscle strengthening almost always overlooked. Namely abdominal toning
4) Proper stance and movement
5) Footwork
6) Developing power in your strikes
7) Increasing your speed