Available:*
Library | Call Number | Status |
|---|---|---|
Searching... Park Grove Library (Cottage Grove) | 921 PUCKETT | Searching... Unknown |
Searching... R.H. Stafford Library (Woodbury) | 921 PUCKETT | Searching... Unknown |
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Reviews (3)
Kirkus Review
On the evidence of this bland, sunny-side-up (and apparently unassisted) autobiography, Puckett--one of major-league baseball's more solid citizens on the field and off--would be well advised to stick with his seasonal trade for as long as possible. The ninth and last child born into an affectionate and hard- working black family, Puckett (who turns 32 later this year) grew up on Chicago's South Side. A late bloomer as a ballplayer, the author (whose build reminds many observers of a fire hydrant) was drafted only after he'd spent a couple of years competing at the college level. Called up by the Minnesota Twins in 1984 after barely two years in the minors, Puckett was a big hit from the outset. A sneaky-fast center fielder with superb defensive skills and a dangerous batsman with above-average power, he helped his team win the World Series in 1987 and 1991. In the meantime, the industrious ballplayer married a local belle and settled in the Minneapolis area, where he's made a respected name for himself in community and national causes. By Puckett's phlegmatic account, the most dramatic event of his upwardly mobile existence turned on the question of whether the Twins would offer him enough money to sign a long-term contract. The club decided to do so, and the perennial All-Star appears prepared to spend the rest of his diamond career with Minnesota. Unfortunately, he recounts this potentially suspenseful episode in the same matter-of-fact style he employs for his experiences in showcase games, at testimonial banquets, on the road, and elsewhere. Leo Durocher notwithstanding, nice guys don't always finish last--but perhaps they should be cautioned about wearying fans with their Panglossian perspectives on the sporting life. (The relentlessly upbeat text has eight pages of b&w photographs--not seen.)
Booklist Review
At first blush, one may wonder why a baseball player in his early thirties would write an autobiography. Kirby Puckett has no major physical or mental disabilities to overcome, no substance abuse problems, no controversial personality conflicts, no severe life tragedies. Why write a book about a hard-working, talented ballplayer from Chicago who has had a successful career playing for the Minnesota Twins and has kept his nose clean? But this is exactly why. It's about time for an upbeat sports biography. Puckett's story reinforces all those aphorisms about achieving your dreams through hard work and a positive mental attitude. On the down side, though, Puckett's saga, as chronicled here, is so squeaky clean that it verges on being downright dull. Devoted Puckett or Minnesota fans probably won't mind the saccharine taste, but others may find themselves overdosing on optimism. ~--W. Scott Wilkens
Library Journal Review
In a style reflective of his engaging disposition, Puckett relives the events that led to his rise as one of baseball's most proficient and popular players. As the title indicates, the star of the Minnesota Twins harbors a deep respect for the game, a conviction that governs his approach to matters on and off the field. Whether relaying locker room anecdotes, replaying a memorable 1991 World Series, or rehashing a lengthy contract dispute, he seldom wavers from his positive stance. He attributes this trait to the realization that he is living out a lifelong dream. In the same vein, he maintains a proper focus throughout his book, refusing to dwell on incidental issues (e.g., relations with the media). Recommended for popular collections. Previewed in Prepub Alert, LJ 12/92.-- William H. Hoffman, Ft. Myers-Lee Cty. P.L., Fla. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
