Illustrated with photographs by Walter Iooss Jr.: Iconic sportswriter and commentator Frank Defordrsquo;s first book brings to life one of Americarsquo;s most thrillingmdash;and misunderstoodmdash;sports entertainments; the Roller Derby; from its birth during the Great Depression to it second ascendancy in the late 1960sIn Five Strides on the Banked Track; distinguished sports journalist Frank Deford opens a fascinating window on this exhilarating entertainment that operates according to its own set of unique rulesmdash;both on and off the track.The Derby began as an idea on a tablecloth in 1935 by Leo Seltzer. From its Great Depression rootsmdash;when young skaters would run away to join the Roller Derby in the same way one might run away to join the circusmdash;through its prewar heyday; postwar decline; and ultimate rise to superstardom in the 1960s; Deford sweeps us along on an unforgettable journey. He brings together the players; the fans; the promoters; and the celebrities. He shares the exploits of Bay Bomber legend Charlie Orsquo;Connell; superstar Joanie Weston; and beloved villain Ann Calvello; with her dyed blue hair; who would ultimately go on to compete in Roller Derby in seven separate decades. Deford vividly captures the excitement of a sport Variety called ldquo;cathartic; dramatic; fast-paced; and classic as a John Wayne movie.rdquo; From the idolatry of the fans to the loneliness of the open road to the hard-charging frenzy of the arena; this is a rare glimpse into a uniquely American spectator sport that continues to reinvent and resurrect itself today.This definitive new edition includes a foreword by Jerry Seltzer and an introduction by Frank Deford.
#86663 in eBooks 2009-11-30 2014-05-30File Name: B00J0ENC8E
Review
7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. This excellent book is a great way to learn to play ...By JeffThis excellent book is a great way to learn to play jazz piano or jazz on any instrument. It lays out essential music theory in a very understandable way that enables aspiring players to unlock some of the difficult-to-learn secrets behind jazz. It includes many important principles of playing and improvising jazz; as well as some piano-specific instruction; such as chording options. The audio examples are also excellent. They feature the author on piano in a top-notch jazz trio; bringing to life the book with expert jazz playing. Cant recommend this book enough for someone trying to crack the code on playing jazz piano; jazz guitar or you name it. I wish this book was around when I was learning to play years ago!4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Best book on jazz piano out there!By Greg MThis is a fantastic book written by an incredible jazz educator. The book addresses the most important subjects for players of all levels; including theory; harmony; repertoire; and improvisation/vocabulary. The explanations are clear and easy to understand; made all the better by the audio tracks that are included. A player that wants to grow will find this to be an excellent investment of both his/her time and money. Clearly the author was very thoughtful in this books creation and execution. Easily one of the best books on jazz piano that I have ever seen; and trust me I have bought my share!1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Awesome book to learn about Jazz PianoBy CustomerReally good book which guides you through to become s good Jazz Pianist. Focuses on main concepts such as rhythms; syncopation; lead sheets with a good practical approach.
