Leigh Montville Bücher

Evel Knievel epitomized the thrill of extreme sports through his daring stunts and flamboyant persona, embodying a distinctive element of American culture and patriotism. However, beneath his exhilarating public image lies a deeper exploration of his true identity and personal experiences, revealing the complexities of the man behind the iconic red, white, and blue. This book delves into the life of a cultural icon, uncovering the story behind the legend.

The narrative follows Manute Bol, the towering 7'7" Dinka tribesman who achieved fame in the NBA, showcasing his remarkable journey from a humble village in Sudan to the bright lights of professional basketball. The book delves into his unique experiences, highlighting the contrast between his traditional roots and the modern sports world. Leigh Montville offers an engaging portrait of Bol's life, celebrating his extraordinary physical abilities and the cultural significance of his story.

A PEN/ESPN AWARD FOR LITERARY SPORTS WRITING FINALIST A tremendous new biography of Muhammad Ali that zeroes in on the moment Ali turned from an athlete to an activist-icon. Muhammad Ali: heavyweight champion, Olympic gold medalist, and cultural icon. In Sting Like a Bee, bestselling author Lee Montville takes a close look at the famed boxer, whose bombastic persona was rivaled only by his athletic performance. But Ali was more than just a boxer. He renounced his "slave name," joined the Nation of Islam, and refused to join the military. His story is the story of America in the late sixties, his life intersecting sports and pop culture, politics and the people. Sting Like a Bee zeroes in on five important years of his life, putting the legend in context. It's a portrait of an athlete and a portrait of America during a time of social unrest and earth-shaking change, a must-read for anyone looking to get a clear view of the man and his country.

The narrative explores the life of Ted Williams, celebrated as one of baseball's greatest hitters and a complex figure surrounded by both admiration and controversy. It delves into his remarkable achievements on the field, his unique personality, and the reasons behind his legendary status. The book also examines the challenges he faced, both during his career and posthumously, highlighting the duality of his legacy in the world of sports.

The narrative captures the intense rivalry between the Celtics and Lakers during the 1969 NBA Finals, focusing on the legendary matchups between Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain. Through the eyes of a young reporter, it weaves personal reflections with the drama of the games, offering insights into the players' dynamics and the cultural impact of basketball during that era. This blend of memoir and sports storytelling highlights both the athletic prowess and the emotional stakes involved in one of basketball's greatest rivalries.

A gripping narrative unfolds as the protagonist navigates personal struggles and societal challenges, reflecting on themes of resilience and identity. The story intertwines rich character development with a compelling plot that captivates readers, offering insights into the human experience. With its national bestseller status, the book resonates widely, appealing to those seeking both entertainment and depth in literature.

John Montague was a boisterous enigma. In the 1930s, he was called “the world's greatest golfer” by famed sportswriter Grantland Rice. He could drive the ball 300 yards and more, or he could chip it across a room into a highball glass. He played golf with everyone from Howard Hughes and W. C. Fields to Babe Ruth and Bing Crosby. Yet strangely, he never entered a professional tournament or allowed himself to be photographed. Then, a Time magazine photographer snapped his picture with a telephoto lens and police quickly recognized Montague as a fugitive with a dark secret. From the glamour of 1930s Hollywood, to John Montague's extraordinary skill and triumphs on the golf course, to the shady world of Adirondack rumrunners and the most controversial, star-studded court trial of its day, The Mysterious Montague captures a man and an era with extraordinary color, verve, and energy.