Product Description
Here's a book that takes readers behind the scenes for some of the greatest moments in University of Michigan football history. From "Kip" Taylor, who scored the first touchdown at Michigan Stadium in the late 1920s, to Lloyd Carr, the Wolverines' current head coach, Michigan fans will be offered details of the stories they've heard about for years...and some that they have never heard. Players who knew Yost, Oosterbaan, Crisler, Elliott, and Schembechler tell their stories in Tales from Michigan Stadium about practice, famous plays, and games from one of the most tradition-rich football programs in collegiate history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Fun, easy read
If you just want to sit down and enjoy an easy, fun book to read, get this book. You can sit down at one reading and finish it, or pick it up and put it down a number of times and enjoy it.

The individuals who tell the stories are people who have lived Michigan football.

While the real Wolverine fan will love it, all college football fans will enjoy it.

Michigan football as you've never known it
These are the stories that were never in the newspaper..some things players or coaches didn't even know!The reader feels like he/she is sitting around with 50 Michigan football players and coaches listening to one story after another.. with the next story funnier or more "secret" than the last.The reader feels like they're reading the secret diaries or journals of people in Michigan football they've only seen on the field or on TV, or read about.Now each one is telling me something that no one else knew. ... Read more

Product Description
A compelling analysis of stadium history, exploring the intersection of civic leadership, sporting institutions, and media coverage to reveal cultural attitudes that transcend sport.

Stadium construction has altered the physical landscape of many major metropolitan areas throughout North America and has had a profound psychological and economic impact on these urban centers. How athletic facilities have been constructed, from the ritual-centered beginning of stadium construction in ancient Greece to large-scale construction of professional sports facilities in present day global centers, reveals a culture’s values and priorities and how it defines its recreational needs.

With in-depth analysis and research, Robert C. Trumpbour examines the political institutions, commercial entities, civic leadership, and media organizations that influenced new stadium construction. The author analyzes three significant recent historical periods: the Progressive Era, when modern fireproof stadiums were first built; the late 1960s and early 1970s, when multipurpose stadiums were built in downtown areas to promote urban redevelopment; and the late 1990s, when retro ballparks were designed to accommodate commercial and entertainment space. Charting this evolution, Trumpbour convincingly argues that there has been a dramatic shift in the role of the media, with media access emerging as a vital element in setting the ground rules for the stadium construction debate. Written in lucid, jargon-free prose, this book combines a detailed history of stadium construction with an analysis of current stadium issues. ... Read more

Product Description
The Drive. Red Right 88. The championships-six of them. Jim Brown. Otto Graham. Paul Brown.They all made Cleveland Municipal Stadium famous. And they shaped the memories of thousands of Browns fans, reluctant to let the visions of their childhood fade even though the stadium is long gone. Legends by the Lake preserves these memories, offering something for every generation of Browns fans.The Browns had their home at Cleveland Municipal Stadium for six decades, and each decade offered a magical moment in Browns history. Fans from the 1950s remember Lou Groza's last-second field goal which gave the Browns an NFL title in their first year. Another generation of fans cherish the 1964 NFL Championship, when the Browns shut out the heavily favored Baltimore Colts. Although that was the last Browns championship, the special moments would continue. Some moments were agonizing, such as Brian Sipe's last-minute interception on the infamous Red Right 88 pass play against Oakland in 1981, or Denver's crushing drive to tie the 1986 AFC Championship, a game the Browns eventually lost.Memories of the stadium also bring back to action the stars, from coaches Paul Brown and Blanton Collier to the thirteen Hall of Fame players, such as Otto Graham at quarterback and Jim Brown at running back.In Legends by the Lake, Browns fans will relive their passion for the games, coaches, and players that they idolized in their youth and will treasure long after the stadium is gone. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

I'm mentioned in the book!
John Keim has written a fine book that captures the history of the Browns playing at Municipal Stadium.

The book touches on many of the great games and great players in the team's storied history.

And I am mentioned in the book's discussion of the Dawg Pound!

Very Solid Book
This book is yet another in a long line of segmented team books. The amount of information contained within its covers is quite amazing, even though I believe the apendicies could have been a little thicker. Every important point of the team's history is covered, although Keim frequently gets stuck in the same journalistic-style of writing. There are plenty of photos in the book, although some of the full-page black and white blow-ups are fuzzy in the paper-back edition. Perhaps a glossy, colored photo section would have enhanced the book even more. Either way, it's a great buy for $17.95.

Awesome trip back in time
I've never had so much fun re-hashing games that I grew up watching. I'd forgotten a lot of the stories within the story and that's why I loved reading this book. Anyone who reads this will know why Clevelanders fought so hard to save the franchise.

Memory lane
My dad had chills while reading this book, thinking of all the good times we had watching the Browns in old, beat-up Municipal Stadium. After I read it I knew why he had chills. This book is well-written and captures what the Browns mean to Cleveland. Anyone who reads this will understand why the Browns mean so much to this city.

BORING,BORING,BORING
I can`t believe someone lose time to write a book like that. This book is boring from the first to the last page.And from all possible sides of the book,the story,the pics,etc...When you think about the Cleveland Browns thefirst thing who come to you is the fans and the Dawg pound ,the author missthat part too.He can`t make you feel what it is to be a Browns fan.The wayhe write the story of the team and the player can`t keep your attention onthe book.You have to read two or three time the same paragraph cause youreyes close by themselve.I gave two stars for the effort the author put inthis book.But if you really want to buy this book take the paperbackversion cause the hardcover are double price.Keep the rest of money to buyanother book about the Browns maybe you`re gonna be more lucky with theother one. ... Read more

Product Description
The book takes Cleveland sports fans back to the era when Cleveland Municipal Stadium was the main sports venue in Cleveland.The book traces the history of the Indians and Browns at the stadium, and recalls the many other events that were held there, including religious events, rock concerts, and carnivals.The book also includes chapters on construction and demolition, and has a 16-page center color photograph spread. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Dawg Pound Favorite
As a die hard member of the dawg pound, this book will always have a special place in my heart. It describes in rich detail the influence and impact Cleveland Stadium had on the city. I'd highly recommend it - GoBrowns!

What a book!
This book is amazing, truly an inspiration!The author pours his heart and soul to depict the legacy that was Cleveland Stadium.A must read for any Indians or Browns fan! ... Read more

Product Description

The Fox Sports Tailgating Handbook covers this multi-million dollar industry and fan passion from its origins to where and how to tailgate at every NFL and NCAA Division-I stadium in the country.

From the history and growth of tailgating (it's so big now that last year there was the inaugural Tailgating trade show in Las Vegas), to the gear you need (including grills, accessories, clothing, etc.), to tailgate planning and execution, to recipes and cooking tips, to features of ultimate fans and tricked out tailgating vehicles, this book will help tailgaters kick-up their parties a notch or two.

Plus there are detailed venue guides with tailgating rules, tips, and stadium and team information for every NFL and NCAA Division-1 stadium in America!

Customer Reviews (4)

Where's the recipes?
The recipes in the book seem to be really good ones, but I was very disappointed that there was more written about the places to tailgate than actual recipes.I didn't feel as though I really got my money's worth.....

Tailgating is more than just the food!
This is certainly a complete tailgate book, aka handbook.There are top 10 lists specifying the best coolers, chairs, grills, and even the best beer belly equipment.It's fun and entertaining; however, that equipment and those lists are outdated as soon as a new product comes out.So while fun and informative it's not needed information because you'll just check consumer reports for next years' best grill to buy anyway.You can get all the information about tailgating that you want fromwww.tailgating.com.

There is tons of information on all the teams, their stadium layouts, cost of parking, team colors, and Hall of Fame members.Again, all interesting and entertaining information but if it's your favorite team than you already know all that.

There's maybe 30 pages devoted to the fanatical fans.It's pictures and stories on the biggest fans themselves, their vehicles and how they've become to be such big fans.Again, interesting info but...

There are about 40 recipes for tailgating food.And they are some great recipes.There's beef, chicken, pork, venison, chili, fish, literally all kinds of recipes.The beer can chicken is the best.There are some side dishes, and 2 dessert recipes included but most are the main entree.Examples are maple pork chops, sausage soup, dark beer brats, kebabs, skirt steak fajitas, and apple city ribs just to name a few.The magic dust recipe is included.

The food is not geared to the teams or region locations as in "NFL Gameday Cookbook."This is just a compilation of recipes.I would highly recommend this book, especially for just a few dollars.Don't pay more than that, because you're only getting about 40 recipes.

If you want a cookbook that's all about tailgating food to include appetizers, breakfasts, thanksgiving football weekend as well as entrees then get "NFL Family Cookbook."It includes all the good food recipes without all the other fluff.If you can still find it.

I recommend the "NFL Family Cookbook" over the new "NFL Gameday Cookbook" and even the "Fox Tailgating Handbook." But if you want all the low-down on stadiums, the guy who paints his face blue and red, and the ambulance turned into a fanbulance than this Fox handbook is for you!

Complete Resource for Tailgate
I just finished Stephen Linn's "Tailgaiting Handbook". In addition to complete tailgating info on all the D1 and Professional Football venues, the book also provides some good recipes from the top tailgating chef's acrossthe country. Further, Linn provides very handy checklist for required tailgating items (which would almost be worth pulling out to carry to the venue since last minute forgets are always an issue).I also liked the resource index which highlights the websites containing many of the best products available for a tailgate event.

Truly "The Ultimate" Guide to tailgating in America.
Stephen Linn has really done his homework.This handbook is everything you need to know about tailgating at college and professional football games.The Fox Sports Tailgating Handbook is packed with information about where to go and what to bring.He even includes recipes so that even folks who've never lifted a spatula before can look like pros at their first tailgate parties.The gear section is especially helpful with tips on the best grills to buy (Freedom Grills are my favorite), the best coolers, and even which vehicles are best for tailgating. Even professional tailgaters can find something useful in this book.You have to go to a lot of games to get this much information. ... Read more

Product Description
Welcome to Tales from Michigan Stadium: Volume II. Wolverine broadcaster Jim Brandstatter takes you back to one of the greatest college football venues in the nation for his second book about the memories this great stadium holds. Brandstatter takes a little different approach this time around, as he follows some of the great names in Michigan football history on the road. While Michigan Stadium is the launching pad, the entire country is the destination. From the legendary names of Yost and Kipke, to the modern day wonders such as Carr and Braylon Edwards, this volume of tales takes you into the locker room and into the huddle for the untold stories of Michigan football.The tales Brandstatter tells never appeared in the newspapers. They are the stories the actual participants tell when they gather for reunions. From the incredible efforts of the marching band, to the incredible efforts of some tailgaters, every aspect of the Michigan football experience is explored in Volume II. Grab a chair; sit down next to Bo, or Mo, or Rod or Steve, or Tai. Eavesdrop a little at the table of your choice. Its a reunion of some of Michigans best, and you have been invited. The opportunity to get the inside story on your favorite play or player is just inside. Take your time, relax, and enjoy Tales from Michigan StadiumVolume II. ... Read more

Product Description

Product Description
From their shaky start in vertical-striped socks to their back-to-back Super Bowl victories in the 1990s, the Denver Broncos have always thrilled and entertained their loyal fans. Famed Broncos announcer Larry Zimmer has penned ten wonderful stories of Bronco lore, all drawn from his years of experience following the team from the broadcast booth. Relive the great moments of such stars as John Elway, Floyd Little, Lyle Alzado, and many more, as seen through the eyes of one of the Broncos' greatest chroniclers.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great Stories We Can Use Right Now
I have been an avid Bronco fan for decades and while I know a lot about the Broncos, Larry Zimmer reveals things only someone with his experiences can.The book has a great flow of Bronco history and the sidebar stories are a blast.The book has fun stories about Elway and many other Broncos, however, I didn't see much about Ed McCaffrey.Anyone that loves the Broncos or for those that don't understand Broncomania should read this book. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review
Forget the bleak news about Yankee Stadium falling down andthe Bombers slipping across state lines to New Jersey. Yankee Stadiumwas there long before George Steinbrenner took over, and, says thesmart money, it will remain there, the most famous of all sportingcathedrals, long after the Boss is gone.

Since its opening in 1923, the stadium has been storied ground. TheYankees became a dynasty there. Tunney, Louis, Marciano, and Ali allfought for the heavyweight title there. Two of the greatest games infootball history--the Army-Notre Dame scoreless tie of 1946 and theSudden Death victory of the Colts over the Giants for the 1958 NFLChampionship--chewed up the grass there. Pele scored goals there, twoPopes offered mass there, Nelson Mandela was adored there, and BillyJoel, U2, and Pink Floyd all rocked the House that Ruth Builtthere.

If ever a ballpark deserved to be venerated, it's this particulargreen patch of the South Bronx, and its 75th anniversary is duly notedand celebrated in this richly illustrated appreciation of the park,the players, the events, and the team that gave the place its hallowedname.

It's an evocative volume. Interspersed throughout its historical textare lovely observations and reminiscences from such luminaries (on andoff the field) as poet Marianne Moore, novelist James T. Farrell,violinist Itzhak Perlman, Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, comic Billy Crystal,Yogi Berra, Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams, and Mickey Mantle. It featuresstunning archival photos of the stadium's construction, a particularlyhaunting image of DiMaggio watching its reconstruction in the '70s,hosts of action and publicity shots that span the decades, and abeautiful essay by Pete Hamill on Babe Ruth's farewell.

But it's Mel Allen, whose honeyed voice became synonymous with theYankees from the late '30s through Casey Stengel's juggernauts and oninto the '60s, who seems to capture the ethos of the place mostclearly: "Suddenly," he remembers, "here I was, a guysupposed to practice law, broadcasting Yankee home games on radio fromthis mecca of baseball. This was the place, the number-oneplace in baseball. The stadium was like the Empire State Building orthe Grand Canyon of baseball, and every time I stepped inside of it Ihad to pinch myself!" In its own way, YankeeStadium--dazzled as it is by its dazzling subject--manages topinch itself pretty good as well. --Jeff Silverman ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Nice book, but not enough emphasis on stadium history/facts
While this is a beautiful book and still well worth the money, I was a bit disappointed with the written history within. While the title says "Yankee Stadium", this is in essence a chronological history of the Yankees, with a little more emphasis on the stadium (mainly in pictures and captions), than other books.

Many of the photos are great (especially the image of DiMaggio overlooking a gutted stadium during renovations) and the captions are well written. But the text, in my opinion, glances over the details of the stadium. For example, the only mention of the fact that a major addition was added to the left field grandstand in 1928 was a small caption to a photo. Also, the renovations of 1974-75, which totally remodeled the stadium (and stripped it of much of it's old charm), is mentioned only briefly.

Most of the text in the book is about the players and how the team did on the field, which would be fine if the book were titled "The Yankees". But I was hoping for the writing to be more focused on the stadium itself (stories from the builders, the vendors, and the players about the stadium; how the renovations were done, etc.) Alas, there is very little of this in the book.


I give this book 4 out of 5 stars for the pictures and due to the fact there are so few other books solely about Yankee Stadium. I'm still waiting for the definitive history of Yankee Stadium (which sadly will replaced in 2009). This is not it.

Baseball's Cathedral
No other sports arena has housed the number of dramatic and historically significant events as the House That Ruth Built. Sure Fenway and Wrigley have their own special atmosphere but Yankee Stadium is undoubtedly as unique as the great Yankee teams that have called it home. No other stadium provides the same rush as you enter ...something about Yankee Stadium says loud and clear."this is the Big Leagues".
This book captures much of the history and while to the baseball fan much may be familiar there are also some non-baseball moments that are equally important to the Stadium's story and these are documented and captured as well. This book was given to me as a gift and since I now live a long way from the Bronx gives me the opportunity to revisit the stadium of my youth when I need a fix. I get to the stadium for a couple of games every season and everytime I hear Bob Shephard's voice on the PA I know I'm home.

Ruth built it, Robinson wrote an entertaining book about it
Ray Robinson's, "Yankee Stadium: 75 Years of Drama, Glamor, and Glory" is a great primer into one of the most historic holy lands of sports. While it's undoubtedly famous for the team whose namesake it adorns, Yankee Stadium was also home to the New York (football) Giants for years, and it was the site for countless boxing matches and non-sporting events. But, of course, it's all about the Yankees and, exactly as Mr. Robinson puts it in his subtitle, the Drama, Glamor, and Glory.

While not a comprehensive, exhaustive research style book, there is ample information and anecdotes to go along with the countless photographs, some of which are familiar and others which are quite unique. I hope that one day, when Mr. Robinson gets around to it, a newer edition will add one more important event that occurred at the Stadium: the resumption of the World Series in 2001, just weeks after the devestation of 9/11/2001.

Nice Picture Book But Short On Content
Good pictures but not too much about the players, no stats, and not many pictures of surrounding areas.Not a great deal about Mickey Mantle, DiMaggio, etc

Every True Yankee Fan's Second Home
This book is an absolute must for every Yankee fan. It leaves no doubt that Yankee Stadium is the single most prestigious piece of real estate in the history of American sports. To tell the history of the Yankees andYankee Stadium is to essentially tell the history of baseballitself.

More importantly, book appropriately emphasizes the non-baseballevents that took place there, thus adding to the vast and diverse amount ofmemories that burn forever in the minds of those who have walked throughits gates.

The only blemish within the book are the panoramic pictures ofthe remodeled Stadium on pages 130-133. They are inverted. Otherwise, therest of the pictures and drawings are spectacular. ... Read more

Product Description

Analyzing football as a cultural practice, this book investigates the connection between the sport and its built environment. Four thematic sections bring together an international multi-disciplinary range of perspectives with particular focus on the stadium.

Examples from architectural design, media studies and archaeology are used while studying advertising, economics, migration, fandom, local identities, emotions, gender, and the sociology of space. Texts and case-studies build up this useful book for lecturers and researchers in sociology, cultural studies, geography, architecture, sport and environment.

Product Description
Since 1962, the inspiring architecture and sweeping vistas of Dodger Stadium have inspired millions of Los Angeles Dodgers baseball fans. What team president Walter O­Malley envisioned nearly half a century ago endures as one of professional baseball­s most striking pieces of architecture, standing in the shadow of the dramatic San Gabriel Mountains. Dodger Stadium is also one of only two such parks built during the 20th century constructed entirely with private funds. Most people think of the stadium as a world-class baseball park, and Dodger Stadium has certainly earned such a reputation, hosting eight World Series, an All-Star contest, and hundreds of action-filled games through the years, during which the Dodgers won eight National League championships and four World Series. But the stadium has been much more than a sporting ground, hosting Olympic ceremonies and events, a papal visit from John Paul II in 1987, and world-renowned musical events, ranging from Elton John to KISS to The Three Tenors. Other events have included ski-jumping competitions, boxing, and a Harlem Globetrotters basketball exhibition. For four years in the 1960s the stadium was also used by the Los Angeles Angels baseball team. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A great book for the Dodger fan!
This is a terrific book for any Dodger Fan. It contains pictures that we have not seen before, and information we have not known (Dodger Stadium used for ski jumping?!). The book brings back many happy memories, and gives us hope for the current version of the Dodgers. Mark Langill's text is very entertaining and informative This, along with the companion book "Los Angeles Dodgers" are must haves. ... Read more

Product Description
A telegram stating, "We have located terminus on Commencement Bay," was sent on July 14, 1873, by R. D. Rice and J. C. Ainsworth, Northern Pacific Railroad commissioners, to Gen. Morton Mathew McCarver in Tacoma and Arthur Denny in Seattle's Pioneer Square. This message set the iron wheels in motion for Tacoma's destiny and transformation from old-growth forests to the Stadium District of today. It is here that railroad tycoons, timber barons, industrial leaders, and everyday people built their homes and raised their families. Perched high on the bluffs overlooking Commencement Bay, Mount Tahoma (Rainier), and the Cascade Mountains is one of the best-preserved historical residential areas in the nation. Magnificent Stadium Bowl is an important gathering place, and the steep spires of Stadium High School have inspired thousands of Tacomans for more than a century. ... Read more

Product Description
Built with a touch of defiance motivated by New York's determination to bring National League baseball back to the Big Apple after the Giants and Dodgers fled to the West Coast, Shea Stadium carved out a place in history all its own during its 44-year lifespan.After becoming the shiny new home to the Mets upon opening in 1964, Shea was blessed with two championship teams during its first decade: the 1969 Mets, led by Tom Seaver, and the 1969 Jets, led by Joe Namath.Glamour became part of Shea's legend, too, as rock-and-roll and religious royalty - the Beatles and Pope John Paul II - made pilgrimages to Queens.The light shinned brightly on Shea again in 1986 with the Mets' second World Series win and in 2000 during the storied Subway Series against the Yankees, and it remained a top-tier venue right up until its closing in 2008.

Shea Stadium has hosted more than its share of hard-fought games, colorful personalities, and memorable performances and these will forever cement its place in New York lore.This richly illustrated book captures all the fond and fleeting memories of the late, great Shea Stadium and is a must-have keepsake for fans who enthusiastically cheered its never-ending parade of star performers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

I miss shea!
Great book, the graphics are amazing and so are the stories.Every true met fan will love it. Shipped fast too.

great book!
enjoyed all the pictures and reminiscing about all the great times I had at Shea!It's too bad they tore it down, but this book captures all the memories.My parents had season tickets right behind the Mets dugout during the 70s.That's mostly what I remember, and I had no idea about all the other great events that took place there.A definite must for the Mets fan and every New Yorker!

A sad day!
Lots of history, great photos, and if you are a Mets' fan this book is for you!

So Long Shea, So So
A passable book but with a few glaring errors including the first photo incorrectly identifying the picture as Game 7 of the 1986 World Series when it was Game 6.
Also, there are some glaring photos missing including Chavez' catch, the grounder between Buckner's legs and Agee's catches.

Must have for Mets Fans
"So Long Shea" is a must have for any Mets Fan. The book is a pictorial history of Shea Stadium, from its construction to its final game. The pictures are all high quality, and cover the stadium's entire history. Not just the Mets, but the Jets and other historical events the stadium held over the decades too. There's really not much written in the book other than the captions for the photos, a quick story here and there, and the Foreword by Ralph Kiner. That's OK to me though. I love all the photos. If there's one disappointment to me, it's the lack of photo's form Shea's closing ceremony. There's only 3 of them. All in all, it's still a great book. ... Read more

Product Description
Through case studies on the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Newmarket's new grandstand, the City of Manchester Stadium and on the Number One Court at Wimbledon, This book shows how all these skills are brought together to the benefit of stadium development. Chapter 17 of the book is written by the great Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa (1934-2007) and is one of his final published contributions to the building design profession. Stadium Engineering is the first book on the subject and this first edition is likely to become a collectors item. It is essential reading for all those whose disciplines impact on the continuing success of stadium engineering and shows that sporting design has not merely come of age; it may well be ready to take centre stage. ... Read more

Product Description

It was the legendary home of baseball immortals, World Series champions, and classic moments in sports history, but after eighty-five years the House that Ruth Built is feeling her age, and the time has come to say good-bye. So as a new Yankee Stadium opens, Ray the Batboy and the Boss summon some of the greatest players who have worn the pinstripes to this hallowed field for one last game. And what a game it is!

Customer Reviews (4)

Once is enough
It's always difficult for a reviewer to critique a book if it's discussing a subject they're not intimately familiar with.Fortunately, children's picture book reviewers have a leg up.Normally I'm not going to have to know the chemical composition of fertilizer for a book about farm life or the migratory patterns of swallows for a book on pretty birdies.The topic of sports, particularly baseball, is another matter altogether.We're talking about the national pastime for crying out loud.Now the other day I was in the library and woman came up to me with her three-year-old son."Do you have anything on the Yankees?He loves the Yankees."I looked at him.He was, as I've said, three.Quite small.I tried to think of any picture books I'd seen about the Yankees."Nope, nothing for three-year-olds," I said, which was true.Then I handed them the fabulous "You Never Heard of Sandy Koufax?!" and the little boy was happy as a clam.My library system, you see, never purchased "One Last Time: Good-Bye to Yankee Stadium" by Ray Negron, which was this year's Yankee-based picture book.The reason for this?It is perhaps one of the most ungainly creations I have yet to set my eyes upon.It's always difficult for a reviewer to critique a book for kids if it's about an unfamiliar subject.When it comes to "One Last Time", however, there's nothing for me to fear.This book was never intended for children.It's for adults from page one onward.

This is, I assure you, the actual plot of this book.I am not making any of this up.So one day George Steinbrenner calls up the batboy Ray to his office.Turns out, Ray is a magic batboy and George wants Ray to tell all the old and dead Yankees that there's going to be a new stadium.Ray goes to a magic room in the stadium that allows him to speak with all the Yankees of the past and he and Steinbrenner help them reminisce.Then the Yankees decide to play one last game on the pitch.As they do so the stadium begins to fall apart around their ears.Honest.So they all get out, and go into the room with the magic door which inexplicably hasn't fallen to dust.Ray suddenly pulls a "Take me with you," but George Steinbrenner stops him and assures him that he shouldn't "worry about the magic, Ray.We're taking it with us.The Yankees will always have that magic."Comforted, Ray and George walk out to look at the new stadium.

I'm sure a person could lash into this book for the fact that it makes the claim that the old Yankee Stadium was worn out and falling apart and that was why they built a new one.Not a baseball fan myself, so I don't particularly care one way or another.What I find far more disturbing is that it appears that the sole reason this book was written was to assure Yankee fans that the new stadium is great and that they shouldn't be whiny crybabies about the destruction of the old one.It's such a cynical reason to write a picture book.On the surface the book is celebrating the great Yankees of the past, but over and over again the story repeats the mantra that the old stadium is no good anymore. "...all the wear and tear has taken its toll...", "The stadium's just too old."Etc. etc.

The book is also a great big kiss on the lips to George Steinbrenner.When the batboy is called into Steinbrenner's office the first thing he says is, "Special assignment?Another sick kid, Boss?A kid who needs some special . . . magic?"Never mind that Ray is saying this apropos of nothing.We are given the distinct impression from the start that Steinbrenner is a godlike figure, sending out his batboy like a little angel to the good Yankee children of the world.This feeling isn't diminished any when the old Yankees of the past honor and adore Steinbrenner like he's their greatest Boss.Heavens.I know the book's written by Steinbrenner's personal consultant, but to make your employer out to be the greatest Yankee the world has ever seen... woo-boy.

As for the writing itself, it's just awful. Not much more to say about that.

Alas, the illustrations do not help.I am willing to bet that Laura Seeley is a good artist, and perhaps very adept at animals and such.People, however, are not her strength.At first I thought she just wasn't comfortable drawing real people.There's a picture of Derek Jeter at the beginning that looks like he's trying to style his hair.Closer inspection revealed a tiny baseball leaving one hand, appearing to float there of its own accord.Then I realized that fake people, like Ray, were sometimes far more disturbing to look at.For reasons unclear to me, the pictures in this book keep returning to the batboy's gigantic looming face with its gigantic looming eyes accompanied by their gigantic looming eyelashes.If you're not zeroing in on his eyeball then you're getting up close and personal with his cheek.I also found it a bit disturbing how often Spalding appears in these pictures, prominently.I know that the author Ray Negron is also a director of community relations for Spalding, but did the book have to be so chock full of product placement?

At any rate, it'll find its audience amongst Yankee fans, I'm sure.The thing is, a good baseball picture book opens itself up to fans of all teams.The aforementioned "You Never Heard of Sandy Koufax?!" was written about a Dodger, but I can hand it to any kid today secure in the knowledge that they'll be reading a fabulous story with even better pictures and they won't care if it's their favorite team or not.In contrast, "One Last Time" is just a cynical, sad tribute to a new stadium meant to comfort grown-ups and throw in some product placement for kicks.Yankee fans, there are better books out there for your kids.Grab "Home Run: The Story of Babe Ruth" by Robert Burleigh or "Lou Gehrig: The Luckiest Man" by David Adler.Your kids deserve the best books out there.Don't settle for pabulum just because it's easy.

Praise for One Last Time
"What a wonderful farewell to the House that Ruth Built.No doubt, the Yankee greats will sanctify the new Yankee Stadium with their special mojo, and the pinstripe magic will continue"
--Richard and Homer Gere, Award-Winning Actor and Son

"A tremendous tribute to the Boss-if it were possible, the Boss would be the one to bring all of the Yankee greats back for one last time."
--Reggie Jackson, New York Yankees Hall of Famer, 1993

"A true field of dreams.I am proud to be a part of it."
--Alex Rodriguez, New York Yankees

"Yankee greats come to life to play one last game at Yankee Stadium.What a treat!"
--Michael Kay, YES Network, Voice of the Yankees

A Fond Farewell
Although the NY Yankees have provided their fans with a wonderful new stadium across the street, the old Yankee Stadium will always be the field of dreams for those of us who grew up with the Bronx Bombers. Just as we can remember where we were at certain moments in our lives, like when JFK was assasinated, we can remember our first time at Yankee Stadium--that moment when we first looked out at that green grass and realized that this is where "The Bigs" were and that we were there to be a part of it. Each of us can remember special plays--Mickey Mantle hitting the facade or Derek Jeter making that great catch and sailing into the stands on the third base side. We remember the fun times--Don Mattingly catching a pop foul and stealing a bite of popcorn from a fan, and the historic times--Roger Maris' 61st home run which to most true baseball aficionados ranks up there with Cal Ripkin's streak as the last genuine baseball records ever set.

One Last Time brings all those moments back to life and allows us to pass them along to our children and generations yet to come. Nobody should ever forget what happened at The House That Ruth Built because it is a history that is deep and rich with pride and tradition. The Yankees may be moving across the street, but that will never change what happened in the old ballpark. And we have this book to keep those memories alive.

This makes a wonderful keepsake--one that can be read to your children and saved. But it also represents an important lesson--that there will always come a time in life when you must move on, and that when that time comes, you should do so with pride. From Billy Martin in his cowboy boots, to introducing the newest member of the Yankees' Heavenly Team Phil Rizzuto to that last moment when Lou Gehrig and The Babe slide that door closed for the last time, this book will make you laugh and it will make you cry, but most importantly, it will make sure you never forget the Yankees who have moved on.

This makes a great addition to Ray Negron's ever growing collection of children's books. All beautifully illustrated by Laura Seely, they are a joy to own and share with our children.

A Wonderful Tribute to Yankee Stadium!
One Last Time: Good-Bye to Yankee Stadium is a wonderful tribute to the Boss, Mr George Steinbrenner and to Yankee Stadium.A must read and a great collectable for all Yankee fans! ... Read more

Product Description
Rising among the factories and body shops off Roosevelt Avenue in Queens, Shea Stadium became the home of the New York Mets in 1964. Named after William A. Shea, the New York attorney responsible for bringing baseball back to the Big Apple after the departure of the Giants and the Dodgers, Shea Stadium has been the setting for many of the game’s greatest moments. Able to be converted from a baseball diamond into a football fi eld, the ballpark was home to the New York Jets from 1964 until 1983. From its opening in 1964 for the world’s fair to the unforgettable Beatles concert to the 1969 Miracle Mets, this book covers the history of Shea Stadium through its inception and up to the creation of the new modern-day Citi Field, which the

Mets will call home in 2009. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Bittersweet memories
Now that Shea is in the process of being demolished, this book serves as a living homage to what will soon just be a memory.And the photos are wonderful, chronicling the entire history of Shea, from the groundbreaking in the early 60s right up to the present.It's not about the Mets per se--there's very little about the players and teams' history--it's a love letter to the ballpark.My only reservation is that all the photos are b/w; I would have appreciated some color photos mixed in so we can get a complete feel for the blue and orange tiles, and the neon sculptures that decorated Shea in its later years.But aside from that, this really is a must-have for anyone who has fond memories of "The Big Shea."It is indeed a "Happy Recap."

A Wonderful, Unique Photo Album
I enjoyed thumbing through this book and following the history of an area I grew up around.As with other reviewers I was fascinated with this unique progression of pictures showing the history of Flushing Meadows and Shea Stadium.And like another reviewer I had to deduct a couple of stars because of the painful number of obvious errors even the casual Mets fan could pick up.Let me add a couple of corrections:On p86: Not only did Nolan Ryan appear in make more than one post season appearance in 1969, he would make post season appearances in 1979, 1980, 1981 and 1986;On page 82: "The Franchise" Tom Seaver won 25 games in 1969, not 35.

Shea Stadium book of history
Makes you relive your past. How many things you live to see and relive through the pages. This book will always remember Shea Stadium way past its demolishion.

Great pictures...major problems with text
I thumbed through this book in a bookstore, riveted by the pictures. As a long-time Met fan, I have nearly every yearbook and many other books about the Mets. Yet, I saw many pictures of Shea I had never seen before, from its construction and earlier. I decided to buy the book, as it would become a great resource years from now when Shea is gone. By page 20 out of 126 though, I realized how poorly written and edited it is. An early picture of Gil Hodges calls him "Miracle Worker" but fails to directly credit him with managing the Mets to an improbable 1969 Series win...it oddly calls Ebbets Field "the most fabled ballpark in history"...its description of William Shea's effort to bring an NL team back to NYC is disjointed and hard to follow...and it sloppily refers to Marv Throneberry as "Thorneberry" four times. It also fails to mention that on its opening day in 1964, workers were still painting and many people left the game with paint on their clothes. Later on, it erroneously credits Tom Seaver with the 1967 Cy Young Award, mistakenly puts Dave Kingman on the 1973 Mets and says Davey Johnson became manager in 1985 (really 1984). It states that Doc Gooden was traded to the Mets in 1984 (he actually came through the Mets farm system) and Mike Piazza was traded from LA (actually Florida). It calls Mike's unforgettable 9/21/01 HR off the Braves a walk-off, when in fact it was in the eighth inning. If you can live with tons of embarrassing mistakes, omissions and questionable statements, the pictures alone still make the book worth considering.

INFORMATIVE YET...FASCINATING!
This is a wonderful reference and remembrance for those of us who have grown up with the magic of Shea Stadium in Queens. For those of you who did not, this tome will serve as an introduction and full course of study on the history of the Stadium, its colorful intricacies, the incredible richness of its surroundings and the memorable characters who pre-dated it and those who were its contemporaries.
After having spoken to its author Mr. Jason Antos at one of his book signings, I realized why this anthem to Shea is as enlightening and readable as it is!! Simply put, Jason, armed with a life-long fascination with his Queens borough embarked on a quest to create the first (which it is!) all-encompassing tale of the Stadium which has many of its own tales to reveal to the curious.
Enriched with hundreds of photographs, many from the author's private collection, and his personal reflections and recollections,this book serves as a fitting and comprehensive memorial to a Stadium which shall cease to exist in a very short time. Mr Antos, I salute you for this masterful oeuvre and invite you to begin work on some volumes dedicated to my home borough of the Bronx!! ... Read more

Product Description
Throughout the United States, community development is increasingly focused on multi-use stadiums and arenas. Local governments and organizations are revitalizing their communities through these projects, which provide the best inner-city venues for sports, entertainment, cultural events, and business expositions. The first section of this book reveals how cities negotiate, approve, finance, design, and build stadiums and arenas. The second section includes case studies demonstrating measures and safeguards to take so the planned project will be a fiscal and political success. A final section examines the future of sports facilities. ... Read more

Product Description
This comprehensive guide to every major entertainment and sports venue in metropolitan New York has been extensively revised for its first new edition since 1996. The updated edition includes all Broadway and Off-Broadway theatres, concert halls, and stadiums, as well as numerous regional theatres and arenas. A full seating chart is provided for each venue, color coded by price, along with all ticket ordering information. And the book also includes a user's guide, including information on different ways to score bargain tickets to top attractions. Whether you want to see RENT, take in an Opera at the Met, or catch a Yankees game at Yankee Stadium, SEATS is the only source you need! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Anindispensable resource!
"Seats", by Jode Susan Millman is an invaluable tool for anyone in the New York metropolitan area whom attends Broadway shows, concerts or sporting events.The book profiles over 150 venues, which include on and off Broadway theatres, Stadiums and all major indoor arena's.Take for example Madison Square Garden.Profiled are 4 different seating arrangements for, hockey, basketball, concerts and boxing/wrestling.They are all here and more, like famous landmarks, Radio City Music Hall, Carnegie Hall, the Beacon Theatre, Lincoln Center, Yankee Stadium, Giants Stadium, and even Long Island venues like the Nassau Coliseum, Jones Beach concert theatre and Westbury Music Fair[now called Northfork Theatre at Westbury].I have used this book many times over the years, and it has always served me well.If I may quote actor James Earl Jones "For culture and sports lovers, Seats is the most practical gift imaginable".I can't disagree and highly recommend this encyclopedic New York venue tour deforce which will give friends and family members many years of enjoyment and knowledge.Who says great gifts have to be expensive!

All Seating Plans Should Be Readable
Some of the seating plans are not readable because the print is very small.It would have been better if larger venues were printed on two pages to be able to read the seat numbers.Otherwise it is very comprehensive.

Seats
Although I live in Hilton Head, S. Carolina, I'm a native New Yorker who spent many wonderful evenings at concerts and the theatre.I therefore didn't know how valuable this book would be until I planned a return visit this past month.

A family relative is performing at The Met at Lincoln Center and one of my sisters was getting the tickets.What she was told were the "best available seats" in fact weren't and she later found out from the performer that there is a "family section."I opened my copy of "Seats" and sure enough, there it was.
I also purchased tickets for "Hairspray."At $240/ticket, I was adamant that unless I got fabulous seats I wouldn't pay the price.After finding several offerings of seats that were less than great, I came upon some in the 3rd row orchestra front and center. Had I not had "Seats" I would have beem back and forth on the internet trying to find a current seating chart .
I have since bought the book for my sisters, brother and mother (great Christmas gifts).
Knowledge is power and you've got it with "Seats"! ... Read more