Product Description
America foremost sportswriters and other personalities offer their favoritememories of Yankee Stadium, the world’s most famous ballpark.In Lasting Yankee Stadium Memories, editor Alex Belth of BronxBanterBlog.com collects personal essays by some of the most well-known and respected voices in sportswriting and entertainment today. In these revealing, sometimes hilarious, oft-touching essays, the contributors recount their favorite moments inside the most famed of all American stadiums. The book also includes a special chapter on the new Yankee Stadium.

Contributors include: Bob Costas (NBC, HBO) • Richard Ben Cramer • Pete Hamill • Tony Kornheiser (ESPN) • Tom Boswell (Washington Post) • Dave Kindred (Washington Post) • Leigh Montville (Sports Illustrated) • William Nack (Sports Illustrated) • Joe Posnanski (Sports Illustrated) • Jane Leavy • Pat Jordan • Maury Allen (New York Post) • Bob Klapisch (Bergen Record) • Tyler Kepner (New York Times) • Allen Barra (Wall Street Journal) • Marty Appel • Jeff Pearlman • Alan Schwarz (New York Times) • Charles Pierce (Boston Globe) • Steve Rushin (Sports Illustrated) • Nathan Ward • Mike Vaccaro (New York Post) • Rob Neyer (ESPN.com) • Ken Rosenthal (ESPN) • Scott Raab (Esquire) • Luis Guzman ... Read more

Product Description
"The best sports book of the year."
- Sports Illustrated

"John Ed Bradley says that all he ever wanted to do was to leave behind a pretty piece of writing. Here it is-a wonderful blend of honest introspection, passionate reporting, and superb storytelling. One of the best books I have read in years."
- Jeffrey Marx, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Season of Life

Inspired by a classic essay about a visit to a dying coach, It Never Rains in Tiger Stadium explores in gorgeous detail the inescapable pull of college football-the cocky smiles behind the face masks, the two-a-day drills, the emotionally charged bus rides to the stadium, the curfew checks, the film-study sessions, the locker room antics, and the yawning void left in one’s soul the moment the final whistle sounds. To understand why it’s so painful to give up the game, you must first understand the intimacy of the huddle. "It ends for everybody," writes John Ed Bradley, "and then it starts all over again, in ways you never anticipated. Marty Dufresne sits in his wheelchair listening to the Tiger fight song...Ramsey Darder endures prison by playing the games over in his head...Big Ed Stanton never took up the game of golf, and yet he rides the streets of Bayou Vista in a cart nearly identical to Coach Mac’s, recalling the one time the old man invited him for a ride." Far more than a memoir, It Never Rains in Tiger Stadium is a brutally honest, profoundly moving look at what it means to surrender something you love.




An Amazon Editors’ Best Book of 2007

"John Ed Bradley is a rare gem, a gifted writer trapped in the body of a football player. It Never Rains in Tiger Stadium will send chills down the back of anyone who loves the game and will echo in the minds of former players long after they’ve put it down."
- Tim Green, best-selling author and member of the College Football Hall of Fame

"A mesmerizing read...achingly sentimental in some parts, brutally truthful in others..."
- Chicago Tribune

"The best memoir I have ever read on how a particular game, win or lose, can linger with us."
- Josh Levin, Slate

"An unsparing and often beautiful chronicle of [Bradley’s] attempt to join polite society."
- Play Magazine

"A lyrical memoir...about his teammates, his coaches, his parents and the magnetic power of football in Louisiana."- National Public Radio

"Heart-wrenching, honest, insightful and hard to put down."- The Franklin Sun
... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Powerful and Compelling Story
John Ed Bradley played football at Louisiana State University for 4 years, and, after his final game on December 22, 1979, with a 34-10 victory over Wake Forest, he left, never looking back until 23 years later. He had become a successful writer and journalist, and was leading the good life. But, after the death of Charles McClendon, memories of when he played for LSU creped into Bradley's head, and he was forced to go back and seek closure and forgiveness from teammates who still remembered him. This novel follows that path to forgiveness, and truly shows the reader how powerful the game of football is and the draw it will have on anyone who had once played, no matter what their position in life was.

This book isn't so much about football, but more of a life lesson, like losing a best friend and years later remembering about that friendship. This is a powerful and compelling story that anyone could relate too.

Reviewed by James Rojek

Exceptional Piece
John Ed Bradley leaves a lasting impression with the reader from the moment you begin reading.The first chapter hooks you and you will not be able to put the book down until your finished.I finished the book in less than 3 days and proved to be a fast and fun read.

Bradley, a former LSU center takes you on an adventure you would never expect a Division I football player not to take.He reflects on all the great times he had and talks about the hardships that brought him closer to his teammates, coaches, and family.The entire book is Bradley's attempt to answer the question 'Why can't he put the LSU days in the past?'By the end of the book he finds he is not alone in missing all the great times he had on the field and with his teammates.He, like many of his teammates constantly think about their days at LSU.

Funny at times and sad at others. Really helps in understanding why so many men never give up the old days they used to play and Bradley takes this crisis to the max.One of the few autobiographies that has made me think about how I want my future to go.

RICK "SHAQ" GOLDSTEIN SAYS: "THEY WALKED BETWEEN THE RAINDROPS!"
This is the autobiography of a young man named John Ed Bradley who lettered in football for four years at Louisiana State University. (LSU) Despite the fact that the only position more impressive in Louisiana than playing football for LSU would be Governor, this is oh so much more than a sports story!

John Ed's football career at LSU culminated on December 22, 1979 with a 34-10 victory over Wake Forest in the Tangerine Bowl. At that point John Ed decided to put his entire lifetime football experience behind him, including any contact with any of his teammates or coaches. Though at first blush, the reader might feel, like John Ed did, that this was just a step in the maturation of a child putting aside childhood toys, but twenty-seven years later, John Ed agonizingly realized with excruciating sadness, that his choice reverberated with echoing emptiness in the deepest chambers of his heart and soul.

The writing style of John Ed is akin to romantic poetry, instead of the "click-click-click" staccato you would expect from your everyday sports section in your local newspaper. The reader, with just a little imagination can become ensconced, as if you're involved in a youthful breakup with a lover, that you walked away from a quarter of a century ago, and though you've refused to look back on whether you did the right thing or not so many years ago, an alignment of your life's planets has forced you to re-examine with fresh eyes and heart, the scene you left frozen in another time.

John Ed was asked by teachers, "What was it like?".... He was asked by bankers, "What was it like?"... He was asked by women, "What was it like?" He was asked by students, "What was it like?" "TO PLAY FOOTBALL AT LSU!?"

HE SAID: "WE WALKED BETWEEN THE RAINDROPS. THAT PRETTY WELL DESCRIBES HOW WE THOUGHT ABOUT OURSELVES. NOTHING COULD TOUCH US, INCLUDING THE RAIN. AND OF COURSE IT WAS AMAZING HOW PEOPLE TREATED YOU OUT IN PUBLIC!"

And then twenty-seven years later, it hit John Ed like a million tons of raindrops, and he poetically wrote: "I miss football so much. I miss it like you can't believe. I miss the things I didn't value or pay much attention to when I had them. I don't miss the games so much, the people in the stadium. I miss being a part of something. I only have myself to worry about now, and it's about worn me out. The weird thing is I've even started to miss the guys I didn't much care for when I was playing. And I miss August and the way the grass used to smell when we went out to start two-a-days." "I guess I never saw my time running out. I thought I'd have it forever. And now if I could have anything back, it would be that-the feeling that came around every August when everything was new and anything could happen because the season was about to start."

As I said; this exquisitely written book, isn't really about sports. It's about the parent you stopped talking to years ago, and now it's too late. It's about the lover you walked away from and never looked back. It's about the best friend whose friendship ended so long ago, and only now in hindsight do you look back. The author uses words like Picasso used colors!

Beautifully written love letter to college football.
John Ed Bradley's book, out in paperback, is just a heartrendingly pretty and loving glimpse into a former college football player's life after the cheering stops.Mr. Bradley wrote an article for Sports Illustrated back a few years ago that the book is based on, detailing the death of his beloved LSU head coach and Bradley's conflicting emotions concerning his playing days and the aftermath of what was a solid playing career that ended in 1979.

This book is simply wonderful.I read it in a matter of hours, and enjoyed every page, every word.I have not read any of Mr. Bradley's fiction, having only grown familiar with him through his contributions to SI, bit can't recommend this book highly enough for any reader, no matter their age of devotion to college football. ... Read more

Product Description
Yankee Stadium: The Official Retrospective recounts the story of an extraordinary American landmark. It captures the creation of a home for the New York Yankees that was driven by co-owner Jacob Ruppert, who envisioned a ballpark grander than any other conceived. It takes the reader from the field to the dugout, from the press box to the clubhouse, from principal owner George Steinbrenner's office to Monument Park.

But Yankee Stadium was more than a ballpark. The most iconic moments in history have taken place within its walls: Lou Gehrig's poignant farewell; epic heavyweight fights; the "Greatest Football Game Ever Played"; and the unrivaled record-breaking successes of the New York Yankees.

With the unprecedented cooperation of the New York Yankees organization, photographs have been culled from every conceivable source. You will walk in the Stadium beside Mantle and Maris, witness the only perfect game in World Series history, and see the Stadium during the 2001 World Series.

Yankee Stadium: The Official Retrospective is more than just photographs. It is also graced with firsthand accounts of what it was like to be there as history unfolded. It is the power of the place that led Sports Illustrated to call Yankee Stadium the greatest venue of the twentieth century. And only here, within the pages of Yankee Stadium: The Official Retrospective, can you feel what they felt. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

A fine dedication to Yankee Stadium
I received this book as a Christmas gift from my sister and brother in law. I have only read a few select pages along with checking out some of it's many pictures. I look forward to sitting down some night and learning more about the stadium's history as well as info about all the athletes who have been fortunate enough to play in pinstripes. I highly recommend this book to any die hard Yankees fans.It's a sure hit!

Good Value!
I ordered this for my 25 yr old son who is a big fan of the stadium. He had seen the book at full price elsewhere, & it was a big hit for him to get it for Christmas. It was in very good condition with a fold at the top of the cover but otherwise perfect.

Well Done - Worth The Cost to Yankee/Baseball History Fans...
I bought this book for my Son, Will - one of his many Christmas gifts; he's a Yankees fan.I'm a long suffering Reds fan, but can't blame him.Unlike my team over the past ten-plus years, the Yanks management wants to win.

At any rate, I have to say that I've always been somewhat of a Yankees' fan as well - this speaks to my appreciation for baseball history.Yankee Stadium plays a LARGE part of that.

This book covers so much of Yankees' history in that stadium, as well as other memorable sporting events.This is worth the cost for the book, and my son appreciates it very much.

AmericanSoldier

Yankee memorabelia greats
This book is outstanding.I bought it as a gift and now want one for myself.

Stunning!
Are you having trouble letting go of another important Major League Baseball stadium?If so, buy this book and hold onto some incredible images, memories, and stories.I'm not a Yankee fan, but I am an avid baseball enthusiast so I understand the incredible historic and nostalgic value of this book.There is no greater team in all of sports than the New York Yankees, and of course, there is only one house that Ruth built. ... Read more

Product Description
A celebration of America’s favorite football team’s newest home. In the design and construction of the new Cowboys Stadium in Dallas, an inspired mission to integrate world-class contemporary art into a state-of-the-art football stadium created an instant architectural icon. Nineteen works of contemporary art, most commissioned for specific sites within the stadium building, were installed to dynamically complement the architecture. The artists range from established stars of the art world like Olafur Eliasson, Lawrence Weiner, and Mel Bochner, to up-and-coming names such as Matthew Ritchie, Doug Aitken, and Teresita Fernández, among others, with the resulting collection rivaling that of any world-class galleries. Even without the art, the Cowboys Stadium is an engineering marvel. A twenty-first-century retractable roofing system allows natural light and air to be exposed onto the world’s largest column-free interior space. Lauded by the Wall Street Journal as "simply mesmerizing," the Cowboys Stadium is a work of art in its own right. This volume captures the exhilaration of the synergy of art and architecture in this lauded landmark. ... Read more

Product Description
"It was the biggest high you could have. No drugs could match it. The way it felt to run out there with the crowd yelling for you. I wish every kid could experience that."

Such was the charmed life of 21-year-old John Ed Bradley, All-SEC center for the Louisiana State University Tigers. But after his final football game, a 34-10 Tiger romp over Wake Forest in the 1979 Tangerine Bowl, he firmly closed the door to his locker and to his past. He moved on, seemingly untouched by the game, to become a successful journalist and novelist.

But Bradley couldn’t help looking back, and soon that past was right in front of him. After the deaths of his old coach, Charles McClendon, and a fellow lineman, Bradley could no longer fight off his Tiger memories. Twenty-three years later, he still knew the names, weights, and jersey numbers of the teammates he had called brothers, and whom he had been neglecting ever since.

It Never Rains in Tiger Stadium is inspired by Bradley’s classic essay "The Best Years of His Life," which appears in Sports Illustrated: Fifty Years of Great Writing. It chronicles his rediscovery of the team that he had long forsaken but never forgotten, and his search for forgiveness from teammates who had never forgotten him. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

Author was addicted to adulation, not football
It Never Rains in Tiger Stadium

Bradley's memoir is a look at his quarter century struggle in letting go of his identity as an LSU football player.

As memoirs go, John Ed Bradley follows a formula sufficient for keeping the readers interest - it's honest and provides enough gritty detail for us to connect with Bradley's past.

A bit too sentimental in parts, but real enough to keep us rooting for the author to discover what the weather pattern is inside the stadium and in real life.

John Ed Bradley is a former LSU football player who played for Charlie McClendon, his senior year in 1979.

Bradley puts his shortcoming as a man on full display.

He shows his immaturity by hiding his relationship with his divorced girlfriend from his parent for several years.

The dysfunctional relationship with his father is something many men can relate to, not knowing or learning how to have a meaningful conversation about life.

His inability to commit to the person he admits was the only woman he ever loved reflects the relational impotence that many men face throughout their lives.

Bradley's story is not that much different from other coming age tales.The uncertainty of the future, the death of central figure, the relentless pursuit of the true calling and finding resolution to some life's pressing questions are all present in John Ed's tale.

His father was a high school football coach in rural Louisiana, and that inevitably leads John Ed to be embedded into a culture where football was the epicenter.

He was tempted to quit, but his father made him realize that he was playing for his family just as much as he was himself.

He seems to regularly doubt his ability as a player, even from the beginning of his high school career but manages to land a scholarship to the one university that every young boy growing up in Louisiana covets - LSU.

Though he was not rebellious in his behavior, John Ed chaffed under the strict rule of Coach Mac, but was consoled by the fact he was playing for the entire state of Louisiana.

But did John Ed really love football and he did he love his teammates?

And if he did, why did he run away the moment his '79 season was over?

What is certain that he did love was the adulation and acceptance of the fans; the status, whether in public or in the stadium, of being a demigod to those who followed the team.

He allows others to define who he was rather than finding the balance between his passion (writing) and occupation (football).

This is why the 1979 game against USC stands as his defining moment as a player.

In his biggest game of his senior year he allows something that was out of his control to haunt him for the better part of 25 years.

Bradley appears to find a partial redemption by connecting with his former teammates and hearing their stories of his same struggle.

Especially touching is the story of his former backup who was later paralyzed.

I would imagine that John Ed could have drilled deeper into the conversation the contrast between how the two men handled life after football would have become more apparent.

John Ed frequently employs a literary device of leaving part of the story untold, so questions remain.

Did he ever connect with more of his teammates?Did he reconcile with the woman he loved?Did he ever forge of new identity?Did he come to terms with his identity as an LSU player?

It Never Rains in Tiger Stadium is about one man's heartfelt search for meaning outside the only boundaries he has ever known.It ponders the relationships that were, that never came to be, and the pain comes losing the opportunities to make them right.

Amazing, inspirational story
John Ed Bradley describes his life based around his football career.Bradley has a unique way of capturing the emotion associated with being an athlete and the large vaccuum left when their competition days are over.The special relationships between teammates are beautifully illustrated.This book reminds the reader why athletics are truly important.This novel is a must read for both Tiger fans and dedicated athletes.

Great condition
I purchased this book as a gift. As with all books I purchase, brand new is not a high priority, because of the high cost, this book was suppoused to be used, but to tell the truth, it looks like it was never read. This seller was very honest and reliable. Shipping took a few days longer than expected but it was not an issue as I ordered early

Fabulous Book for Any Tiger or Football Fan
I bought this book as a gift for my boss' birthday and being the consummate Tiger fan, he already had it.He raved about it and told me that I must keep it for my husband who is also a huge Tiger fan.I did keep it and gave it to my husband for a partial anniversary gift.Although he is not much of an avid reader like myself, I have taken to reading him little sections each evening.He is truly enjoying the book and I am finding it very difficult not to read ahead!My husband played high school football and could have gone on to play in college, but he chose to stay close to home.So "the glory days" are over for him, but we look forward to watching our son play on the gridiron.

Great book...must read for any football fan.

It gave me goose bumps, Go Tigers.
If you are a fan of college football, this if a must read book! If you want much more than a football story, THIS IS THE ONE!

I could not put this book down, it literally gave me goose bumps. If you ever played football you will find this book chilling. This is a absolute must read for Tiger fans and all fans of football. This book is so well written and depicts what goes on before, during and after a football career. Don't miss this book! ... Read more

Product Description
The Ultimate Baseball Road-Trip is a comprehensive guide to all the diverse and fascinating ballparks throughout the country by two entertaining young writers whose love for the game of baseball and the game of life overflows from each page.Josh Pahigian and Kevin O'Connell's approach to skillfully planning and fully appreciating a road-trip or a visit to a single park is funny and irreverent and loaded with information designed to make the most of the experience.

Part travel manual, part ballpark atlas, part baseball history book, part restaurant and city guide, and, not least, part epic narrative, The Ultimate Baseball Road-Trip encompasses all the essential elements of a full-blown baseball road-trip.Included are ticket and travel information, a detailed guide to the best and worst seats in each park, folklore and statistics on each park, tips on each park's trademark foods, and profiles of nearby sports bars and baseball attractions, all within a lively narrative that reminds us that baseball is often the ultimate metaphor for the important things in life.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

Great resource!
This is the best resource I have found in order to plan a baseball trip. The ammount of thought that goes into the descriptions of each ballbark is amazing! They have left no stone unturned. The only thing that could be better is if they could do an update, since there are a few new parks now.

Very good guide to getting to the good stuff
I'm a ballpark addict. For as long as I can remember, I've loved reading about them and visiting. From barely there relics like what remains of League Park in Cleveland to new marvels such as CitiField in Queens, no feeling can match going to one of baseball's hallowed grounds.

I happened upon this book without knowing about it and it seemed right up my alley, so I made an impulse buy. Three years later, I still refer to it constantly when I travel to a new park and use it to find things I otherwise might not. This book has that covered, in spades. Well written, albeit a bit disjoined.

My biggest gripe is that it's a bit out of date now. If they updated information about new parks, I'd be there on Day 1 to get a new copy. Maybe a few more pictures would be nice, as well.

If you plan on hitting the road and visiting some new parks, consider this the only travel guide you need!

Very Helpful
I bought this book for my boyfriend who wants to tour all the baseball stadiums. This book is a must for anyone traveling to an away game!!

Ready for my own Road Trip
I wanted to find a book that would help me plan a vacation to ball parks up east this summer.This book will do the job nicely.I have my trip planned out now, but find myself scanning through the parks I have already attended wanting to know more about what I missed.I even find myself reading up on the history of each team.The only thing I found missing this year (2008) was that the Nationals Ball Park is not included.Well, I hope they update this soon.

Baseball Bible
I got this book for Christmas and it helped me through the long cold offseason!Josh and Kevin painstakingly researched all the stadiums including great seating suggestions, history of team and stadium, trivia and just great in-depth information.

The book is as much about the area around the park in the city and a great love of baseball and humorous anecdotes.

Very enjoyable for those that love baseball and ballparks. I am excited to get to some new parks and compare my opinions this season! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (16)

Remembering Yankee Stadium Book
Whether you are a Yankee fan or not, this is one gorgeous book. Quality binding and printing. Photographs are excellent quality. Great for the coffee table. Bought this for my husband for Christmas 2008 and my son wanted one too--will probably be buying another one this Chrstmas for him! There are lots of Yankee books out there but none quite like this. Would recommend to anybody who has a true Yankee fan to buy a gift for.

Great Memories/Photos
Bought this for my father....He loved it....brought back many childhood memories. He couldn't believe the quality of the photos. Also, he loved the stories and the comments from people who were involved in the photos or wrote about them in the daily newspapers of the time.

EVEN IF YOU HATED THE YANKS, YOU HAD TO LOVE THEIR PARK

At this point, I've read enough of Harvey Frommer's books to anticipate the excellent history and writing that is to be found in this one. But what I wasn't prepared for is just how beautiful the design of the book is; the bounty of photographs of the park, players, and action; and the images of memorabilia--like ticket stubs and posters--scattered throughout. If you're a Yankee fan or have read much about them, there won't necessarily be a lot that's new to you here, but you can't be enough of a fanatic to know all the great anecdotes and the oral histories from players and others with memories of and ties to the Stadium are wonderful. What seals the deal though is the visual experience and, since we soon won't have the park itself to refer to anymore, that makes this book a must have.

Just as everyone has their own special memory of The Stadium, in such a rich collection of stories and pictures, everyone is likely to find their own favorite tidbit. Here's mine. In the middle of Mr. Frommer's discussion of Babe Ruth's record 60 homerun season of 1927, we come upon a list of the pitchers off of whom he went yard that year. A simple enough thing you think, eh? But check out these names: Sloppy Thurston (3 times!), Rube Walberg (4 times!), Rip Collins, Garland Buckeye (twice on June 11th), Hal Wiltse, Slim Harriss, Hod Lisenbee, Lefty Stewart, Sarge Connally, Milt Gaston, Willis Hudlin, Lefty Grove... If a fiction writer used all those magnificent monikers in a baseball novel you'd criticize him for going over the top. Make room on your coffee table, because you'll want to keep this beauty there.

almost perfect
For any Yankees fanatic, this is a first-rate compendium of all things Yankee, and is interesting and entertaining even if you're a Red Sox fan.My copy, purchased for a gift, came on time and wrapped to endure any major disaster, but the jacket was slightly ripped and the cover dented.Fortunately, the recipient didn't mind.

Best Gift I Ever Gave My Father
We gave my father (a lifelong Yankee fan) this book for Christmas and I know I can now never match the enthusiasm he had for this book with anything else.True Yankee fans will definately love this book. ... Read more

Product Description
This book provides an eye-opening account of recentbattles over publicly financed stadiums in some of America’s largestcities. The authors’ interviews with key decision makers present abehind-the-scenes look at how and why powerful individuals andorganizations foist these sports palaces on increasingly unreceptivecommunities.

In the face of studies demonstrating that new sports facilities don’t live up to their promise of big money, proponents are using a new tactic to win public subsidies¾ touting intangible "social" rewards, such as prestige and community cohesion. The authors find these to be empty promises as well, demonstrating that new stadiums may exacerbate, rather than erase, many social problems.

Public Dollars, Private Stadiums should be read by everyone with an interest in the future of sports and our cities. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Don't stop with this book
A very thorough scholarly analysis, and yet, quite an easy read.I recommend this book to any baseball fan, who is also a taxpayer and a voter.I also suggest that you read Curry, T., K. Schwirian, and R. Woldoff.2004. High Stakes:Bigtime Sports and Downtown Redevelopment (Urban Life and Urban Landscape), after you finish with this book.

Public Dollars, Private Stadiums
Well thought out and articulated arguments for part of what ills many cities and society as a whole.(And this is coming from a sports fan.)It was quite interesting to see how some communities are at the same time very much the same, while being so very different.

Outstanding Expose
This book was an eye opener on the shady practices employed by state and city governments in securing public financing for PRIVATELY owned stadiums.

A great read, particularly if you live in a city that is in discussion with a sports franchise regarding building a new facility.Be wary...be very wary.

Great Look at Big Sports Business
This was a very interesting book.Written by 2 scholars but easy to read and enlightening to anyone who wants a closer look at how sports teams and cities play off against each other and with competition (other sports teams and other cities).
Also gives an interesting look at the regional dynamics of the different regions of the USA.Very interesting look at how people in various cities in the US see themselves and how the importance of spectator sports ranks relative to other economic and entertainment opportunities in various cities.
A must-read for the average citizen to help make informed choices if and when governments in their area are evaluationg/pushing new stadiums. ... Read more

Product Description
This first-of-its-kind publication allows you to hear John Frusciante's guitar tracks and Flea's bass tracks like never before! According to the All Music Guide, "The string instruments are the reason to listen to Stadium Arcadium ... they push and pull, rave and rumble, lie back and rock out." The CDs isolate the guitar and bass tracks from the original recording, so you can listen as you learn from the music in the book. This special edition is the brainchild of John Frusciante, and he personally approved all parts of it. All 28 songs are included from this groundbreaking two-disc release, the Peppers' first album to debut at #1 on the Billboard charts. Songs include: Dani California * Hard to Concentrate * If * Snow (Hey Oh) * Stadium Arcadium * Tell Me Baby * Wet Sand * and more. 2007 Grammy Winner for Best Rock Album, Best Rock Song, Best Rock Performance! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

A must have for RHCP fans
This book is a real treasure. The CDs that it comes with are the ORIGINAL TRACKS! That means what your hear is the original Flea and John, not someone else. However, this book was a bit disappointing to me, only because it's too hard for me. This book is probably about, Intermediate to Advanced.

Something even better than these CDs (though, it is hard to get a digital copy of this), is FLEA's youtube page. He is listed as IIIIIFLEAIIIII, and he has guitar master tracks for every song from stadium arcadium (except slow cheetah!), and all sorts of mixes for all songs from BloodSugarSexMagik, and a few others.

Brilliant book, couldn't ask for more . . .
If you're an aspiring guitarist and you love John Frusciante's work on this album then this book + CD compilation could be worth its weight in gold for you. The transcriptions are dead-on and the CDs give you John's guitars and Flea's bass lines with the faint sounds of the drums in the far background. Actually it's a great tool for studying Flea's work as well but in this particular book the tabs are only for guitars. And as everyone has already noted, these are the real tracks from the double album, not recreations by studio players.

I've been particularly amazed at how many subtle nuances come through when you take away the vocals and drums. Sometimes I listen to these CDs in my car INSTEAD of the official album release because they're that aesthetically pleasing. You feel like you just walked into a room where John and Flea are jamming out. This is probably the best tab book ever released for ANY album. Highly recommended.

If for nothing else, buy this for the CD's
Don't get me wrong, the book is great by itself.It's clear and complete, and it seems accurate as far as I can tell.Plus, the effects that John used are listed within each song, so you can discover how he created all those cool sounds on the album.

But, the real gem here is the CD's.The vocals, drums, and everything else are stripped away so only John's guitar and Flea's bass remain.It's like listening to a whole different album, and it's awesome!Sometimes I felt like the guitar and bass were drowned out on Stadium Arcadium itself, but you can really appreciate them when they are isolated on these CD's. What a great learning tool!

Just two notes:

1) Two CD's come with the book, and each song on the CD's features both the guitar and the bass together.So it's not like there's one CD for guitar and then a separate CD for bass.I was kind of confused about that before I bought it.

2) The book itself only contains parts for guitar, so if you're interested in learning the bass parts, you should buy the bass version, which comes with the same CD's but has the bass book instead of the guitar book.Happy playing!

Excellent idea; worth every penny.

I'm a longtime RHCP fan and a guitar player (obviously since I bought the tab!). I have both the Mother's Milk and Blood Sugar Sex Magik tablature books and have learned almost all of the songs in both. That said, I was a little hesitant in ordering the Stadium Arcadium book for two concerns: 1) the album is so effects laden, it may be hard to reproduce at home; 2) usually, when audio is provided on a CD with a tab book, examples are truncated snippits or examples of songs taken out of context--not very helpful, IMHO. Let me cut to the chase: buy this book with the CDs! The CDs contain ALL 2 SA discs with FULL songs from beginning to end sans drums and vocals. You get to hear John Frusciante's guitar parts and Flea's bass interacting together for all of the songs. I'm hearing things being played that I've never noticed before on the original SA release. Actually, what the recordings have confirmed is a suspicion I've had that SA was mixed horribly for the final release... a little too smooth and compressed, finally killing the BSSM era peppers sound. However, listen to something like "Hump De Bump" on this book's audio and you will hear guitar and bass every bit as raw, inventive, and funky as anything from BSSM. Why did this get lost in the final release? The tabs are pretty spot on, too. I've noticed a few voicing inconsistencies with JF's live playing of the songs... but this is a minor quibble. This book is a must (for this price) for any RHCP fan that plays bass or guitar. The audio is also an awesome stand-alone look into the writing and musical process of a inventive band of musicians.

Awesome!Great Instruction.
The bass and guitar tracks on the CDs really help to identify the individual notes, riffs and chords.Extremely worth it! ... Read more

Product Description
Get into the center of the action with The Stadium, a book that takes you to some of the finest event centers across the globe.
Sports fans in the United States can revisit their own home fields such as the Reliant Stadium in Houston, SBC Park in San Francisco, Oriole Park in Baltimore, and experience international attractions such as the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wembley in London,Arsenal in London, and the Olympic Stadium in Sydney. With 250 eye-popping photos and 70 architectural plans,this book defines the stadium as a worlwide cultural icon. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

the stadium:architecture for the new grobal culture
I am studying about economics of sports facilities,
so that hardly can find books about these theme in japanese.
I think this book is very useful that sports facilities of worldwide.
I recommend this book who are interested in sports facilties and culture of local identities.

Great Book but needs a CD
If you're looking for an architectural book that includes drawings such as floor plans, sections and elevations then you're in the right place.

This book offers a lot of pictures for 18 different stadiums including the Wembley Stadium in London.. i would have given it five stars but unfortunately most of the drawings are too small to be read or understood professionally.. i think they should have added a CD just like most architectural books now a days with full size images to help you view it in details.

STADIUMS
Very good book on some spectacular sports stadiums.The text is very informative and the images are first rate.It is such a relief that stadiums are back to having style and not just totally utilitarian, like my beloved Astrodome.It is so sad to me that the Astrodome ushered in the multisport stadium, that type of stadium is almost extinct and the few that still stand like Houston's so called "Eighth Wonder of the World", linger like some sort of bad experiment that went horribly wrong.To appreciate how far stadium architecture has come, just look at Relient Stadium, which is profiled in this book, and compare it to the old grey lady next to her...the afore mentioned Astrodome....sic transic gloria. ... Read more

Product Description
All 28 songs from the Pepper's Grammy-winning two-disc set, with all instrument parts transcribed exactly as recorded. Includes: Charlie * Dani California * Desecration Smile * Hard to Concentrate * Hump De Bump * Readymade * Slow Cheetah * Snow (Hey Oh) * Stadium Arcadium * Tell Me Baby * and more, with guitar and bass tab and complete lyrics. 496 pages! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Just not what I expected
All the tabs are very small and squeezed really close. Seems to be more of a book for reference than to learn from.

Book
This book is just for you if you wanna play songs from Stadium Arcdium like FLEA. You get 28 songs so its a bargain.

Great Book
This book is just for you if you wanna play songs from Stadium Arcdium like John. You get 28 songs so its a bargain. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Lots of info, poorly organized
It was painfully difficult to read ... and I am a Cubs fan. There's a lot of information about the negotiations of various sports complexes in Chicago (Wrigley, Comiskey, Chgo Stadium/United Center). If it had been edited a little better, there would've been less of a need to repeat things in a subsequent chapter that had mentioned in a previous chapter. ... Read more

Product Description
In ancient Greece, the term stadium was defined as a footrace over a distance 192 m. This distance measurement was then later used as a description for the competition facility. Nowadays a stadium is considered a total competitive sporting complex with field, oval-shaping running track, shot put, javelin and broad jump facilities as well as viewer seats and press boxes. Nowadays, stadia are not only simply sporting sites, but also act as tourist attractions, distinguishing features and gathering place for clubs. This tendency has led to increased value being placed upon architecture in stadium design. Additional uses for covered stadia may include stores, offices, hotels and restaurants. In the following, various solutions of modern stadia design are presented. In so doing, examples of various use types and sizes will be addressed.

32 projects are introduced, they are catching the eyes because of an extraordinary architecture. As well the "inner life" with VIP lounges will be shown. Included are all 12 stadiums which are scene of the soccer world championship 2006. Plans and sketches will be enclosed to every project. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

More than sports
Wrigley Field may be better-known, but the author has it right when he says of Chicago's Soldier Field "a stadium and its city."It turns out that far more than athletic events have been held in this massive facility.For example, it used to be the setting for the annual Chicagoland Music Festival which attracted both performers and spectators in Brobdingnagian proportions.(I remember in particular the massed accordions.)It has hosted memorable religious events, such as the Catholic Eucharistic Congress in 1925 and the Billy Graham Crusade of 1962.Some of the best photos are from the Chicago Park District, which justifiably prides itself on its special collections.

An amazing read for anyone who loves Chicago!
My husband purchased this book, actually, and I just picked it up one evening out of curiosity. I actually don't care much for football, so I was surprised at how much more Soldier field is than just a football stadium. I quickly became engrossed in this book, discovering a landscape of Chicago's history in it's pages.

The author presents an interesting view of Chicago's various social, cultural and political constructs through the lens of Soldier Field. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Chicago, loves history, or just loves good writing. ... Read more

Product Description
From the first days of spring, when paint was laid onto the on-deck circle in the sunshine and the silence of Yankee Stadium, to the numbing ovation that accompanied Derek Jeter s send-off, and everything in between, The Final Season: The Official Retrospective provides the last look at an icon from the inside out with more than one hundred and fifty never-before-published photographs shot exclusively for this book. Yankees photographers chronicled every moment from every angle, thanks to the unprecedented cooperation of the entire Yankees organization. Combined with first-person quotes gathered from the likes of President Barack Obama and former presidents George W. Bush and Jimmy Carter to national celebrities and Yankees greats, the book captures the mystery and magic of the final year in the life of the world s most famous ballpark. For any fan of American sports, The Final Season is as unique as Yankee Stadium itself and essential to any book collection. For Yankees fans, the book captures all the magic, mystery and majesty of the most versatile outdoor venue in the history of the modern world. Around a baseball season that stretched from April to September, Yankee Stadium hosted events of all kinds. From Pope Benedict XVI s emotional Mass celebrated on an altar built over second base, to Military Appreciation Day, Major League Baseball s All-Star Game, the final Old-Timers Day and the final game played in the House That Ruth Built, the Stadium remained true to its history as America s grandest outdoor stage. Fittingly, Yankees legend Bernie Williams was the last player to walk through the center field grass as he shot a music video in the waning days of October. The Final Season represents the last word on Yankee Stadium with a style and substance unique to the award-winning and the New York Times bestselling books produced by Rare Air Books. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Old Stadium Memories
Great book about a stadium that is sorely missed and should never have been torn down. Memories abound all over this book if u are a Yanks fan. You will not be dissapointed. Too much Pope coverage though.

Remember the House that Ruth Built
This book is a MUST have for all Yankee fans, and goes great with " [[ASIN:1439155984 Yankee Stadium the Official Retrospective. " While 'The Official Retrospective' reviews the 85 year history of the stadium, 'The Final Season' only looks at the 2008 season. While '08 was the most disappointing season for the Yankees since the early 90's, Mark Vancil (Rare Air Books), Alfred Santasiere (Editor in Chief of the official Yankees Magazine) and Tim Kurkjian (ESPN) manage fill this wonderful book all the positives of '08 (though there were not many). Kurkjian, an outstanding writer, gives a month by month review of the 2008 season, while Santasiere looksat the memorable happenings at the stadium throughout the season, including the All Star Game, Old Timers Day, and the Pope's visit to Yankee Stadium. The Photography in this book is superb, and has photos that you won't find anywhere else. I own many coffee table baseball books from Ballantine books, Rare Air Books, and official books from the Yankees, and this book is my favorite. From Melky's homer off of Halladay on opening day, to Molina's blast in the final game, from Joba's first pitch as a starter to Mariano throwing one last cutter to Brian Roberts that closed the greatest sporting venue of our generation. Relive the final season with this book.

Farewell Yankee Stadium...
Thanks Mark and Al for the follow up book to your other great book on Yankee Stadium.This book is without question one of the best books onYankees Stadium out there.Great photography and stories on every page.I really like the shot of Cal Ripken standing next to Lou Gehrig's monument in Monument Park at last years All-Star Game.Also love the picture of Jeter walking down the tunnel to the dugout.I was a partial season ticket holder last year and the memories will always be there for me.I'm also a partial season ticket holder this year and have to say that it's really sad seeing this old cathedral just sitting there waiting for it's demolition.But the history of this grand old ballpark will live on forever.A must have for true Yankees fans...

As good as it gets
This is a fantastic book: spectacular photography, cutting-edge design, crisp writing, and impeccable editing. As a lifelong Yankees fan, I have seen probably every book ever published about the team, and this one ranks at the top of the list. There's a lasting image or story on virtually every spread. I always felt that Yankee Stadium transcended baseball, so I was glad that the editors included the Papal visit and other events as well.

This book is a great companion to another Yankee Stadium book that Rare Air Media published about a year ago--that one covered the history of Yankee Stadium and is as visually stunning as this one.

I have every book that Rare Air Media has published, back to the incredible Michael Jordan books, and every one of them is a virtual piece of art. I keep them on my coffee table and never get tired of paging through them. (Actually, a girl I was dating stole one of my Jordan books--I dumped her as soon as I found out.) One of my favorites is the book Rare Air did a few years ago on World Wrestling Entertainment. The title is "Unscripted" and it's an incredible visual and first-person peek behind the curtains of professional wrestling. If you enjoy sports and entertainment and don't know Rare Air books, you're missing out.

A fitting tribute that all Yankee fans will appreciate
As an active sports arena, Yankee Stadium is history. But this book, which takes you literally from early spring to the dead of winter, will keep its history alive for years to come. Of course, there are the celebrity quotes, from both baseball luminaries and ex-presidents. But they become, ultimately, window dressing for the images -- the wonderful images of all the major Stadium of events of 2008. There is so much eye-candy here. My absolute favorite -- emotionally -- is the shot of Cal Ripken posing respectfully alongside Lou Gehrig's monument. Two Iron Men, joined by history, though their lives never intersected.
We're also shown the inner sanctums of the Yankees' offices and clubhouse, presumably after they've finished serving the team and await demolition. And we get to watch Bernie Williams' final, solitary, stroll through center field. As a baseball fan, I didn't really need to see the details behind the Papal visit. But as part of the arena's final season, I guess it belongs here. It wasn't the happiest season for Yankee fans--and not just because the Stadium was nearing its end. The team was the most disappointing crew in more than a decade. But somehow my disappointment receded as I paid one final virtual visit, with the help of this book, to one of my favorite places on earth. Thank you, Mark and Al, for reminding me of all the things a Yankee fan should be thankful for, even when the team doesn't win. I heartily
recommend this book.Jeff Fox, author, "Yankee Stadium: The Final Game" ... Read more

Product Description
Love them or loathe them, there?s no question that the New York Yankees and Yankee Stadium are forces to be reckoned with. This book provides a unique look at ?House that Ruth Built? and its history, through historic interviews with icons including Mantle, DiMaggio, Jeter, Giambi, and Berra, and photos of memorabilia, player cards and interior stadium shots. You?ll also find a collectible card of Yankee Stadium and New Yankee Stadium. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A GREAT BOOK OF NOSTALGIA
THIS BOOK IS A TRIBUTE TO YANKEE STADIUM, THE BEST KNOWN STADIUM IN THE USA. THE BOOK CONTAINS A GREAT DEAL OF FACTS, TRIBUTES, PICS AND DRAWINGS ABOUT THE STADIUM AND THE LEGENDS WHO PLAYES ON THESE HALLOWED GROUNDS. AS ONE OF THE OTHER READERS COMMENTED, I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN. I READ IT IN 2 DAYS AND I STILL USE IT AS REFERENCE AND CONVERSATION PIECE. I ADMIRE BUT HATE THE PIN STRIPERS. I THINK THAT MOST FANS WERE ALWAYS IN AWE OF THE TEAM AND THE FIELD THEY PLAYED ON. AUTHOR TS O'CONNELL DOES A GREAT JOB WITH SO MANY HIGHLIGHTS AND EVENTS CONCERNING THIS AMAZING FACILITY. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK FOR ALL BASEBALL FANS. BUT IF YOU ARE A HISTORIAN OR GREW UP AS A YANKEE FAN, THIS BOOK IS A GREAT KEEPSAKE AND SHOULD BE TREATED AS PART OF THE HALLOWED AND SPECTACULAR HISTORY OF THE YANKEES AND THIS NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN SLICE OF HISTORY KNOWN AS YANKEE STADIUM.

Legendary Yankee Stadium from a Different Perspective
Legendary Yankee Stadium: Memories and Memorabilia from the House that Ruth Built takes a rather unique slant on one of sports' most sacred grounds. Unlike other books on Yankee Stadium, this one focuses more on stadium memorabilia and player memorabilia. Also featured are some incredible stories about the Yankee greats like Ruth, Gehrig, Mantle, DiMaggio, Yogi, and so on. There are also some great photos and artwork (some never seen before). The writing of its author, T.S. O'Connell, is eloquent yet to the point. Once you start reading you can't put it down. The holographic card in the back is pretty cool too! If you thirsting for history, nostalgia, and memorabilia of the "Big Ballpark in the Bronx," this book is the place to go.

the old ball park in the Bronx
Bought this as a gift..
So having just flipped through it, Very well done..
Great pics, covers the Yankee Legends, For some reason there is a chapter about A-Rod?? Not sure why he hasn't done anything in a Yankee uniform to be in the book, would have liked to have seen a chapter about the great announcers that were a part of the old park aka Atleast Bob Sheppard..
But over all nicely done and my Sister loved it.... ... Read more

Product Description
The ancient Greeks thought the gods dwelled on Mount Olympus.We can confidently report that they've moved to the Paris Rugby stadium!Elaborating on the photographs taken for the popular calendar of the same name, thesetantalizing images feature players of the famous international rugby club, the Stade Francais Paris, in all their unclothed glory.Tony Duran's work worships the human form, whether in his sexually charged nude studies, his sensual fashion photography, or his inventive celebrity portraiture.Duran has take his signature style to Dieux di Stade, where he transforms the athlete into graphic sensual male form. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Great book
I have purchsed the Dieux du Stade calenders for years, I was in Paris and saw the book there for 50 euros, which is about $65.00 US. I decided I didn't want to carry it around Europe, so glad I didn't it was much cheaper here on Amazon.

Great Gift
This book was a fun present for my bride-to-be friend who is an avid photographer. I gave it to her as a bachelorette gift. The photographs are sensuous not vulgar, and though erotic, still fine art. (Basically, still safe to have on the coffee table when parents visit.) We still went through the book giggling and drooling at the French rugby team like best friends at a slumber party! However, as a photographer, she said she was very impressed not only with the photographer's eye for form and mastering sexy without being crude, but also with the overall quality and printing of the book. She said that this is definitely one of the best photography books she has in her collection. Now she just needs a coffee table! (Ha! It's on her wedding registry!)

Dieux du Stade: A Brilliant Addition To My Coffee Table
Behold the glimmering gods of Tony Duran's Dieux du Stade.

When I first opened to these black and white images, it felt like a visual dream--moving me in and out of a steamy locker room.One of my favorite photos is of a man holding a rugby ball, concealing his member, positioned against the backdrop of a cloudy sky. Some other images that stick in my mind: a couple of nude men embracing each other; a striking photograph of one man's handsome face in another's lap; the muscular sweet cheeks of a man standing against a locker room wall.

This sort of homoerotica can be enjoyed by both men and women (I especially enjoy the few delicious erect surprises throughout the book). Duran captures some photos from rooftops and balconies which not only gives me a view of Paris, but also provides an industrial, sadio-masochistic, blood-rushed excitement.

I'm pleased to have added Tony Duran's Diuex du Stade to my coffee table collection. This book properly defines and absorbs the male form as I desire: athletic, nude, and comely.
... Read more

Product Description
Riverfront Stadium, which opened in 1970, hosted the greatest team in Cincinnati Reds baseball history. In fact, the Big Red Machine was one of the greatest teams in all of Major League baseball history. Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, Pete Rose and company won two World Series championships, four National League pennants, and made six post-season appearances in a single decade. Riverfront Stadium: Home of the Big Red Machine captures all of the glory of the 1970s, as well as other legendary moments in the ballparkís 32-year history, with nearly 200 classic photographs and narrative that brings the authorís knowledge of baseball and love for the game to every page. ÝÝ ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Very Pleasant Trip Down Memory (And Riverfront) Lane!
"Riverfront Stadium: Home Of The Big Red Machine" is a compact, 128-page paperback by Mike Shannon (first printed in 2003). It breezily takes the reader on a word and picture tour of Riverfront Stadium, which served as the home of the Cincinnati Reds' National League baseball club for 32-and-a-half seasons (1970-2002).

Riverfront is (was) a ballpark I have very fond memories of. It was considered by some critics to be a drab, lifeless "cookie-cutter" stadium design (or, as some people called it, a "concrete doughnut"). But, in my personal view (which is admittedly a view with a built-in "pro-Cincinnati Reds' bias"), Riverfront was a grand place to watch a baseball game. A first-row green-level seat right behind home plate afforded a sensational view of the baseball diamond (and was a good place to possibly snag a foul ball to boot).

I witnessed many games from the brightly-colored blue, green, yellow, and red seats at Riverfront, mostly during the 1970s, which were the days when Cincinnati's "Big Red Machine" was winning baseball championships at a dizzying pace -- six N.L. West titles during the decade of the '70s, along with four N.L. Pennants, and two World Series victories (1975 and 1976).

The Reds added one more World Series-winning trophy during the Riverfront era, when they swept past the Oakland A's in four straight games in 1990. So, Riverfront was certainly a place with a rich, winning tradition during its lifespan.

Riverfront Stadium was renamed "Cinergy Field" on September 9th, 1996. But for most long-time Reds' faithful who fondly recall the "Big Red Machine" days of the '70s, the park will forever be remembered as only "Riverfront Stadium".

This volume starts out by giving us a brief glance at the old (but cherished) Cincinnati baseball park that was replaced by Riverfront in June 1970 -- Crosley Field. Crosley was the home of the Cincinnati Reds for 58 years prior to the building of the brand-new, all-Astroturf Riverfront Stadium. Some nice aerial photos of both Crosley and Riverfront are featured throughout the book.

There are many pictures in this book that I have never seen published anywhere else -- including some images of Riverfront Stadium during its construction phase in 1969 and early 1970, plus some "as-it's-happening" type pics of big moments in Reds' (and Riverfront) history that are captured via the pics in this book.

One such photo shows a jubilant home-plate celebration as Reds' slugger Johnny Bench arrives at Riverfront's home plate after having just clubbed the game-winning, walk-off home run in Game 1 of the 1973 National League Championship Series vs. the New York Mets.

Another rarely-seen photo in the book, which occupies space on the very same page (#51) as that '73 NLCS photo mentioned above, is a picture of Cincy reserve catcher Hal King, just after he had walloped his memorable 3-run, pinch-hit homer off of Don Sutton on July 1st, 1973, giving the Reds a dramatic come-from-behind win over the Los Angeles Dodgers (who served as the Reds yearly rivals throughout the 1970s). That King blast began an amazing turn-around in the N.L. standings for the Reds' team, a club which had been floundering up to that point in the '73 season. The Reds seemed to be inspired by the Hal King game-winner, as they rallied in the final months of the season to overtake the Dodgers and win their second N.L. West crown in as many years.

I can still hear then-Reds' announcer Al Michaels' excellent radio call of that Hal King four-bagger -- "Back goes Crawford....all the way back....GONE!!". It was a hair-raising moment.

Of course, when speaking of ex-Cincy radio play-by-play man Al Michaels (who broadcast the Reds' games on WLW Radio for three years; 1971-1973), the "call" that always comes to my mind first is Al's breathtaking, voice-cracking call of Johnny Bench's ninth-inning, game-tying home run off of the Pirates' Dave Giusti in the 5th and deciding game of the 1972 N.L. Playoff series at Riverfront -- "Change hit in the air to deep right field! Back goes Clemente!! At the fence!! SHE'S GONE!!!"

That was probably Bench's most-memorable circuit swat, which propelled Sparky Anderson's Reds to an eventual one-run victory over Pittsburgh in that playoff game (to the collective delight of the 41,887 fans who were fortunate enough to be in attendance that Wednesday, October 11th).

If you ever get a hankerin' to listen to a replay of that Al Michaels' spine-tingler from the '72 NLCS, you can visit Johnny Bench's website (johnnybench-dot-com). Every time the home page of that site is refreshed, the Michaels/Bench radio call is played (in crystal-clear clarity too).

This book's text and ample photography proceed in a chronological manner, with several of Cincinnati's standout players during the Riverfront years being singled out for individual attention throughout these 128 pages ..... including mini-profiles on Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, Tommy Helms, George Foster, Clay Carroll, Tony Perez, Cesar Geronimo, Davey Concepcion, Fred Norman, Ken Griffey Sr., Ken Griffey Jr., Pedro Borbon, Hal McRae, Tom Hume, Danny Driessen, Tom Seaver, Ray Knight, Mario Soto, Dave Parker, Eric Davis, Buddy Bell, Jose Rijo, John Franco, Paul O'Neill, Chris Sabo, Hal Morris, Bret Boone, Reggie Sanders, Barry Larkin, Sean Casey, and Adam Dunn.

All photos in the book are in black-and-white (except for the front cover). It would have been nice to have had some color photographs printed here. But even without the benefit of color, many of these pictures are priceless (IMO). And all of the photos in this book exhibit very good quality and crisp detail as well.

---------------

Here are some of the highlights in the 32.5-year history of Riverfront Stadium (many of these memories finding their way onto the pages of this volume).......

>> Just two weeks after opening its gates, Riverfront Stadium played host to the 1970 All-Star Game. And it was a hometown Red, Peter Edward Rose, who barrelled past catcher Ray Fosse to score the winning run for the National League in extra innings.

>> Home-run king Hank Aaron hit the very first homer at Riverfront Stadium, on the Opening Night of the park (June 30, 1970). It was Hank's 577th career long ball. Four years later, Aaron would make even bigger history at Riverfront by smashing lifetime round-tripper #714 on Opening Day 1974 off of Jack Billingham. That big clout tied Henry with the immortal Babe Ruth for first place on the all-time HR list.

>> Chicago Cubs' lefthander Ken Holtzman became the first pitcher to twirl a no-hitter at Riverfront Stadium (June 3rd, 1971), as the Cubbies blanked the Reds, 1-0. And just twenty days later, Rick Wise of the Phillies hurled the second no-no at Cincy's new stadium, when the Reds came up with nothing but blanks against the Philadelphia righthander on June 23, 1971. The Phils won the game by a 4-0 score, with (get this!) the man who authored the no-hit gem (Wise) hitting two home runs as well! It wasn't the Reds' finest Riverfront memory, to be sure. But it was a unique game in the history of the stadium, as Wise became the first-ever big-league hurler to hit two homers while at the same time pitching a no-hitter in the same game. The weak Riverfront crowd of 13,329 saw a true rarity that June night, as Wise's pitching and his bat disposed of the Reds in just 1 hour, 53 minutes. Holtzman, in his no-hit outing just three weeks earlier, also made quick work of his opponents, with that game taking only 1:55 to complete (in front of another meager Cincinnati crowd of only 11,751).

>> Tom Seaver threw the only no-hitter of his great career at Riverfront (June 16th, 1978; 4-0 Reds' win over St. Louis). George Hendrick was Seaver's last out in the 9th inning, on a grounder to first baseman Dan Driessen. A dandy moment for "Tom Terrific", and for the 38,216 in attendance that Friday evening at Cincinnati.

>> Another "no-hit" Riverfront memory (the park's biggest ever) occurred on September 16, 1988, when Reds' southpaw Tom Browning tossed just the 12th perfect game in major-league history -- a 1-0 shutout over the Dodgers. Browning (who had an 18-5 record in '88) needed just 102 pitches to mow down all 27 L.A. batters he faced in the quick time of 1:51. Attendance was 16,591. .... Browning's "perfect-o" was just the fifth perfect game ever thrown in the history of the National League, and only the third one in the N.L. since 1880 (with the others in the "modern" post-1900 era being spun by Jim Bunning in 1964 and Sandy Koufax in 1965).

>> Pete Rose made baseball history several times on the Riverfront playing field. He collected his 3,000th career hit there on May 5, 1978, vs. Montreal. And he became the all-time ML hits king on the same field seven years later, when his single to left field off of San Diego's Eric Show on September 11, 1985, pushed Rose one hit beyond Ty Cobb. It was base hit #4,192 for Pete.

>> "Johnny Bench Night" at Riverfront on September 17th, 1983, was a grand evening for the sellout crowd of 53,790 (a record for a regular-season game at the stadium), who gathered to say farewell to 17-year veteran "J.B.", who retired at the end of that '83 campaign. The Reds lost the game to Houston, but Bench delighted the packed house by swatting a well-timed home run during the game (which turned out to be the last of his 389 career blasts).

>> Unfortunately, the Reds were never able to sew up a World Series-winning season at Riverfront Stadium, with each of the Reds' three Series-clinching wins coming on the road, rather than at Cincy (1975 at Boston; 1976 at New York; and 1990 at Oakland). .... But the Reds did clinch several of their N.L. West crowns and National League pennants while standing on their home Riverfront turf -- including that incredible game in October 1972, when Bench & Company beat the Pirates to take the flag. And, an exciting comeback victory for the pennant-clincher @ Cincy in 1976 vs. the Phillies.

>> Tony Perez belts a game-deciding HR to dead-center field to cap a 5-run bottom of the 9th frame, lifting the Reds to an amazing come-from-behind 14-13 win over San Francisco on July 25, 1974. Reds' announcer Marty Brennaman's exciting radio call of that Perez game-winner will forever stick in my memory -- "Fly ball!! Center field!! It's all over!! It's all over!! The Reds win it!! The Reds win it!! The Reds win it!! Fourteen to thirteen!! Tony Perez with a home run to center field!! Ohhh, my golly!!!"

>> Thanks to the artificial playing surface (and those "Zamboni" water-sucking trucks), the first-ever rained-out game at Riverfront didn't occur until more than eight years after the park opened (August 30th, 1978, vs. Pittsburgh). And it took 3.5 hours of persistent precipitation to cancel even that game, which was called off in the middle of the fourth inning.

>> Riverfront/Cinergy hosted its last N.L. baseball game on September 22, 2002 (a Reds' 4-3 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies). In 2003, a brand-new (and admittedly gorgeous) "retro"-style park became the new home of the Cincinnati Reds -- dubbed "Great American Ball Park". Riverfront Stadium/Cinergy Field was demolished (via implosion) on December 29, 2002.

---------------

In random fashion, here are some of this writer's personal memories of Cincinnati's Riverfront Stadium (which this book helps to rekindle whenever I glance at these photo-filled pages).......

>> Very first Riverfront memory -- A 1971 game between the Reds and San Francisco Giants. Giants' pitcher Gaylord Perry was searched for various "illegal substances" during the game by the umpires. Perry, of course, was probably the best-known "spitball" hurler in the game, and was frequently under the microscope of opposing managers and the umpires. I cannot recall if Perry got the ol' heave-ho from the men in blue during that 1971 game or not. But he might very well have experienced an early shower that night at Cincy.

>> Seated up in the "nosebleed" section of the red-level seats in left-center field, I was one of 55,667 people who watched the Reds lose Game 4 of the 1975 World Series to the Boston Red Sox (5-4 final). My souvenir '75 WS ticket stub tells me that I was sitting in "Section 339; Row 10; Seat 102" that night. The cost of the ticket: $10.00.

>> A green "Plaza Level" seat accommodated my frame for a Tom Seaver milestone at Riverfront on April 18, 1981 -- Tom's 3,000th career strikeout. He fanned St. Louis first baseman Keith Hernandez for the big 'K'. .... I also recall being at the stadium for another hurler's 3,000th punch-out the year prior to that, when Houston's Nolan Ryan struck out Reds' centerfielder Cesar Geronimo on July 4, 1980, earning "The Express" a spot in the exclusive "3,000-Strikeout" club.

>> August 14, 1981 -- George Foster smacks a prodigious home run to left field against the Giants. The blast reaches the upper-deck "Red" seats at Riverfront, one of relatively-few balls ever to reach that high-level plateau at the stadium. Foster, though, hit numerous balls into the "Red" during his stay with the Reds (1971-1981), with this August '81 shot representing his 8th such mammoth upper-deck clout.

>> Tuesday, July 4, 1972 -- Reds beat St. Louis, 6-1. .... Following this Reds' triumph, this writer (age 10) collects thirteen Reds' (in-person) autographs in the parking garage underneath Riverfront Stadium, including the sought-after signature of '72 N.L. MVP Johnny Bench, plus Tony Perez, Cesar Geronimo, Clay Carroll, Ross Grimsley, Bobby Tolan, Denis Menke, Jack Billingham, Ed Sprague, Julian Javier, Jim McGlothlin, Joe Hague, and Wayne Simpson. .... A red-letter day for Reds' autographs to be sure.

>> Opening Day 1977 vs. San Diego -- Four inches of snow covered the Riverfront field just hours before game time. But the snow was cleared away and the game was played, with the Reds topping the Padres, 5-3. New Reds' lefthander Woodie Fryman made his Cincinnati debut and bested another lefty, Randy Jones. .... The '77 Opener was the first of three straight Opening-Day games I was able to attend at Riverfront Stadium. .... In 1978's first game, the Reds beat the Astros in a slugfest, 11-9, despite Houston's defense turning an unorthodox triple play in the 7th inning. According to data I have gathered, that was the first triple play ever started by a strikeout (Dan Driessen fanned, and then two Reds' runners were caught stealing on the same play to complete the oddball triple-killing). .... In the 1979 Opener that I attended, the Reds were on the losing end of an 11-5 score vs. San Francisco. Five Reds' errors didn't help matters much that day, making John McNamara's debut as Cincinnati manager a somewhat-forgettable afternoon.

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Two excellent "companion" Reds' books that I'd recommend to sit alongside this 5-Star Mike Shannon effort would be "The Relentless Reds" and "The Royal Reds" (all about the World-Championship seasons of 1975 and 1976), which both feature a larger-picture format for many of the images contained therein; and also sport several full-color photos as well.

But, if you want to know all about "Riverfront Stadium" itself, and the many Cincinnati Reds' greats who performed there through the years, then this fine-quality book (all by itself) should do the trick nicely. ... Read more

Product Description
This is a complete guide to the football stadiums of the 114 colleges and universities that are in the NCAA Division I-A. Information for each stadium includes the year it opened, its current seating capacity, its special features, the dates, descriptions, costs and financing of any renovation or addition, and its playing field surface. Related information includes the team mascot, nickname, colors, fight song, and year of the school's first intercollegiate football game. The names and tenure of all athletic directors and head coaches since the stadium opened are provided as well. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Pure Pulp
Another review for this book contends that you can "marvel at the pictures for hours."Absolutely correct.You can marvel at how poor the picture quality is.You can marvel at the terrible grade of paper used.Mostly, you can marvel at the fact that someone actually deemed this worth publishing.

Complete waste of time and money
First, let me clarify my passion for college football: I visit the websites of other teams just to learn their gameday traditions, I follow the stories and histories that make every Saturday game a 'big game,' -heck, I play college video games to "virtually" visit the 117 stadiums that are out there.So when I bought a book calling itself "An Illustrated Guide" to college stadiums, I expect to read a little more than technical data and some very mediocre B&W photos.This book seems slapped together with information that any halfway intellegent fan could look up on the internet (with color photos no less).Adding an extra layer of insult, the book, although published in 2000, still has stadium pictures that are more than several years out of date (i.e. stadiums built pre-1998 are still shown in their "model" phase).

College Football Fan and Fanatics: Do not, I repeat, DO NOT waste your money on this book.Just look up the info on a search engine, you'll get way more information in a much nicer package (or you could buy the latest college football video game and see them all in virtual form).Anyway would be better than this book.

Complete waste of time and money
First, let me clarify my passion for college football: I visit the websites of other teams just to learn their gameday traditions, I follow the stories and histories that make every Saturday game a 'big game,' -heck, I play college video games to "virtually" visit the 117 stadiums that are out there.So when I bought a book calling itself "An Illustrated Guide" to college stadiums, I expect to read a little more than technical data and some very mediocre B&W photos.This book seems slapped together with information that any halfway intellegent fan could look up on the internet (with color photos no less).Adding an extra layer of insult, the book, although published in 2000, still has stadium pictures that are more than several years out of date (i.e. stadiums built pre-1998 are still shown in their "model" phase).

College Football Fan and Fanatics: Do not, I repeat, DO NOT waste your money on this book.Just look up the info on a search engine, you'll get way more information in a much nicer package (or you could buy the latest college football video game and see them all in virtual form).Anyway would be better than this book.

an insightful college football stadium book
This book is an information packed encyclopedia for anyone who is interested in architecture and stadiums, or for anyone who just likes college football. 110 stadiums in lively colorful pictures and surrounded with facts such as capacity, dates, the team, the mascot, information about stadium renovations, and little unique facts that people don't ususlly realize. A great book. Extremely detailed. You can sit and just marvel at the pictures for hours. This is a book not to pass by. There are not many about college stadiums, and this one is the best you will find. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Very close to outstanding - even has the CFL stadiums in here!
Want ot know all about the Pro Football
stadiums in the US and Canada? Then this
my firend, is the book for you. I highly
recommend this throughly readable book
which gives all the dope you or that Pro
Football fan in your household could want
on the subject. Very readable and complete.

Compelling, packed with detail
Thomas Owens' Football Stadiums will delight any football fan and will reach beyond its intended advanced elementary-grade level into adult readers, surveying the building of stadiums and the underlying influences on their locations and operations. While the subject may not lend to classroom study, leisure readers with a passion for the sport will find this compelling, packed with detail. ... Read more