A great year for storytelling. We wanted to list out some of our best reads…books we actually read, form the past year. Looking forward to early 2022 which will bring us Mike Sielski’s Kobe book, Ian O’Connor’s book on Coach K and many more, wayyy outside of sports as well. And as you will see, the list of good reads don’t have as much to do with sport, they have to do with the messages, the prose and of course, the stories contained within. Safe to say we learned something from each and every one. If you are in search of some inspiration to start the year, take a look and pick a few up.
First the non sports reads…
Vanderbilt: The Rise and Fall of An American Dynasty by Anderson Cooper. The CNN host takes us through the lives of his family and brings us back well beyond the Robberbaron world many know and still see today in and around Grand Central Station. We learn a great deal about characters big and small, and he humanizes everyone right to the present day.
Hope: A Guide For Surviving In Troubled Times by Jane Goodall and Douglas Abrams. The co-authors take us on a journey of inspiration needed today more than ever, with some amazing anecdotes and insight into how we can make the world a better place.
The Storyteller by Dave Grohl. Who knew the leader of Foo Fighters and master musician was also the musical artist with the most appearances on Saturday Night Live. Just one of so many jewels learned on life, music and relationships.
The Boys by Ron and Clint Howard. In the past year, we got an inside look at the lives of some of the best storytellers we have today, and Ron and Clint Howard’s back and forth, from “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Gentle Ben” to “The Odd Couple” and “Laverne and Shirley” to so much of their current work behind the camera and behind the scenes in the media world, was another fun read
Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey. Another unconventional memoir with short bursts of anecdotes and longer form thought pieces from the one time almost candidate for Texas governor, talented actor and ardent fans of all things Austin FC and UT
Taste, My Life Through Food by Stanley Tucci. More than the recipes and his pairings, loved learning about the Westchester (NY) natives acting experiences, living experiences and how he has stayed positive and curious throughout his journey,
Then the transition one…
Sooley by John Grisham. A good transition into some sports titles that we learned from, the fictional account of a young boy who ends up growing physically and mentally during his journey from his native Africa to March Madness has many worthwhile qualities…historical fiction for the sports fan,
Then the rest…
Where Tomorrow’s Aren’t Promised by Carmelo Anthony. The NBA veteran takes us back to the Brooklyn projects then to Baltimore, Syracuse and the NBA. A good insiders thoughtful look at how a career came together and who influenced him along the way.
Authentic by Paul Van Doren Learned a great deal about the entrepreneurial side of the sneaker business and the amazing journey the late Paul Van Doren was on when he created and grew the Van’s brand. A great read for anyone interested in the marketing side.
All In by Billie Jean King Have seen the film, read the stories for years but you never stop learning from such an amazing pioneer. Great first person perspective and insight.
The Best American Sportswriting, Glenn Stoudt editor Thanks to Triumph books for keeping this important series going with a new vision. Their first version doesn’t disappoint at all.
Heart and Steel by Bill Cowher with Michael Holley The longtime Steelers coach now TV analyst takes us through his personal journey and the life lessons along the way. Maybe the best book by a coach this year.
Coaching and Teaching Gen Z by Brian Polian. Short and very sweet, the now Assistant Coach at LSU takes us through some really strong lessons about how to engage with a younger person, let alone athlete. Maybe not the mainstream but really good insight from his time at Notre Dame and Nevada.
It’s Better To Be Feared by Seth Wickersham Not by a coach but about a coach, his system and the many players and personalities in it, Seth Wickersham breaks down the history and success of the New England Patriots under Bill Belichick. Quite a journey
Again, these are ones we read and enjoyed…no judgement on so many others but a good first hand list nonetheless.
