 2008-11-01 - Great for Sports-lovers
I was at the library with the kids a couple weeks ago perusing titles in the biography section when one caught my eye. It was Jim Nantz's book, "Always By My Side: A Father's Grace and a Sports Journey Unlike Any Other."
As a fan of pretty much all sports, and recognizing the broadcaster's name, I decided to give it a shot. I thought it would be interesting to hear some of the behind the booth stories that Nantz must have to offer. I was not disappointed.
In the book Nantz interviews the story of his rise to broadcasting prominence with the story of his father's battle with Alzheimer's. Repeatedly Nantz recognizes his father as the most important influence in his life and the ties the lessons from his father with his career experiences.
It is clear that Nantz has a deep love for his father. As a reader you can feel the sadness as Nantz details how his father goes from a strong man full of wisdom and love, to, as he is described in the book, 'a tortured shell of a human, a nearly emptied vessel.'
The sports side of the book is very entertaining and laced with anecdotes from celebrities in golf, football and many other sports. Nantz offers glimpses into the lives of Arnold Palmer, Jack Nickalus, Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Fred Couples, Phil Mickelson, and many others. Nantz also shares many stories of his interactions with broadcasting colleagues and two former Presidents.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It felt like a great mix of personal reflection and sports. Nantz comes across as a passionate and generous man. I look forward to hearing him on air again soon.
 2008-09-14 - A Moving, Personal Adventure from the 'Voice' of Sports
You don't need to be a sports fan to appreciate this book. Despite Nantz's carefully-worded prose about the Masters, Final Four, and the Super Bowl, this book is truly about the bond that he formed with his father.
The story takes us on a journey. Nantz discovers his passion for sports and wants to share each and every moment with his father. As his father drifts into the abyss of Alzheimer's disease, he is moved and touched by the 'little things' that his Dad showed him on the road of life. I had a grandma with Alzheimer's, so I definitely understand the emptiness one feels when a loved one is distant and fading.
A great gift for first-time or long-time Dads. The most important takeaways from this book are: Appreciate the time that you have and be generous and loving, especially to close famiy.
Dan Naden
http://www.dannaden.com
2008-07-29 - A bit schmaltzy for my taste
Nantz seems like a really good guy. And if you're a sports fan, you'll enjoy some of the behind the scenes and inside stories no doubt, as I did. But throughout I thought it was a bit self indulgent on Jim's part, and quite a bit schmaltzy. That is, overly sentimental. At least for my taste. Am I the only one felt that way ?
2008-07-12 - Excellent read
We gave it to our son after we had read it and it was excellent. We wanted to share with him.
2008-07-07 - Great Book! Great service from Amazon!
I ordered three copies of the book for Father's Day gifts for two of my sons and my husband. According to the recipients, it was a great read. Amazon service was, as always, superb!
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