The Tao of Muhammad Ali

Rating:
Summary: Think Again Ali Worshippers
Review: The power of Ali's charisma is remarkable, it suffuses but ultimately suffocates this book.

For an unsentimental dose of reality, compare "Ghosts of Manila" by Mark Kram and then rethink Davis Miller's contribution. I hate to say it but with the benefit of hindsight Miller's moving tribute becomes embarrassing hagiography.

Rating:
Summary: A wonderful behind the scenes look at the true Ali
Review: This book is one of the best books I have read in a long, long time.It is about the true Ali, the part of him that is not reported on by the press but is noticed by his fans, and everyone else. It shows that it is not just his great boxing talent that people love,but also his drive, his way of making people feel important about themselves.It is also about Davis Miller and tells a lot about himself also, but that is certainly not a handicap.It actually adds alot more flavor to the book itself.I highly recommend reading this book.

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Summary: Not just for boxing fans
Review: This is not a hokey book about Ali's outlook on life, as the title may seem to suggest. Instead, it is a touching, deeply personal book about the author's life and struggles and how Ali served as a role model to get him through some of his biggest struggles -- in fact, changing his entire life. Miller's writing is clear, descriptive, and enjoyable to read no matter what he is writing about. And the subjects he discusses are so personal that you almost feel as if you're intruding. Like Miller (no relation), I can remember Ali's fights when I was a kid -- how he transcended sports as a larger-than-life emblem of confidence, courage, and compassion. But I don't read Ali biographies. I picked up this book only when I realized it's not about Ali -- it's about the author. Even if you've never been a boxing fan and even if you've never admired Ali, you will marvel at Miller's story and his storytelling. I plan to reread it many times.

Rating:
Summary: The Greatest About the Greatest
Review: What a wonderful read! I read this book for a university course in Scotland. This book offers the reader a refreshing approach to the study of the most influential sportsman in history. The reader can share and often empathise with the thoughts of the author as he recounts the growth of his interests in Ali and his eventual meetings with the great man. It's perhaps the closest many of us fans will ever get and provides great insight into the personality of the Greatest. A superb book!