Review: Kayfabe: Stories You're Not Supposed To Hear From A Pro Wrestling Production Company Owner By Sean Oliver

Kayfabe: Stories You're Not Supposed To Hear From A Pro Wrestling Production Company Owner
Sean Oliver
Amazon Digital Services, 2017
Paperback, Ebook, Audiobook

Author Sean Oliver is the co-owner of Kayfabe Commetaries where he also serves as host of the majority of the company's releases. The "face" of the shoot interview standard bearer, Oliver offers his experiences at the forefront of a growing company in a relatively new off-shoot of the pro wrestling industry. In Kayfabe, Oliver relates his thoughts and memories of dealing with some marquee names in the pro wrestling industry as well as promoters, producers, promoters and fans of the product. This is Oliver's first book.

Released: Struttin' & Cutting By Brutus Beefcake & Kenny Cassanova

Struttin' & Cuttin' by Brutus Beefcake and Kenny Cassanova (co-author of Kamala Speaks) is now available for order via Beefcake's website. The book covers Beefcake's career, his near-fatal parasailing accident and his life since his departure from the main stream wrestling scene.

Review: Season's Beatings By John Cosper

Season's Beatings: Holiday Greetings From Wrestling's Golden Age
John Cosper
Create Space, 2017
Paperback

Eat, Sleep, Wrestle's John Cosper has released Season's Beatings: Holiday Greetings From Wrestling's Golden Age. The book is a collection of Christmas messages harvested from a late 1940s California wrestling event program. 

The book is a very unique and enjoyable title. While not a typical wrestling book, - it is essentially promo shots with Christmas messages from wrestling personalities - it is a great choice for those looking for a short form coffee table book, those with an interest in the era or looking for a unique - but well compiled - title in the pro wrestling genre.

Review: Looking At The Lights: My Path From Fan To A Wrestling Heel By Pete Gas With Jon Robinson

Looking At The Lights: My Path From Fan To A Wrestling Heel
Pete Gas, w. Jon Robinson, Adam "Edge" Copeland (Foreword) & John Bradshaw Layfield (Foreword)
Sports Publishing, 2017
Hardcover, Ebook

Pete "Gas" Gasparino's Looking At The Lights is the story of one of the most atypical members of the WWE Attitude Era roster. A non-wrestler with a "regular job," Gas instantly became a high profile WWE personality when he appeared as a member of Shane McMahon's "Mean Street Posse" at the height of the Attitude Era. Despite having no previous training and no designs of joining the WWE Roster on a full-time basis, Gas (along with Rodney and, later, Joey Abs) remained roster mainstays for over a year. This is Gas' first book.

Released: The Titan Trilogy: The History of the WWF From 1995 to 1997 by James Dixon & Justin Henry

The Titan Trilogy: The Story of the WWF from 1995 to 1997 was released in mid-December. This book book is an anthology featuring the extremely detailed and entertaining releases Titan Sinking, Titan Shattered & Titan Screwed. Each title gives great insight into the events, personalities and backstage climate of a calendar year in the WWF. Reviews of Titan Sinking and Titan Shattered are available on this site.

The Titan Trilogy is available at Available at Amazon US CA UK

Released: Kayfabe: Stories You're Not Supposed To Hear From A Pro Wrestling Production Company Owner By Sean Oliver

Kayfabe: Stories You're Not Supposed To Hear From A Pro Wrestling Production Company Owner

Sean Oliver

Create Space Independent Publishing, 2017

Paperback, Ebook

In late November, Kayfabe Commentaries co-owner and host, Sean Oliver, released Kayfabe: Stories You're Not Supposed To Hear from A Pro Wrestling Production Comapny Owner. Kayfabe Commentaries' collection of shoot interviews including Timeline, Guest Booker & Back To The Territories are among the best produced and most popular in the industry. Oliver's book gives readers a look behind the production - good, bad and ugly - of these industry leading releases.

Kayfabe is available in Paperback and Ebook formats on Amazon US CA UK

Review: Second Nature: The Legacy of Ric Flair & The Rise of Charlotte By Ric Flair & Charlotte Flair

Second Nature: The Legacy Of  Ric Flair & The Rise Of Charlotte
Ric Flair & Charlotte Flair w. Brian Shields
St. Martin's Press, 2017
Hardcover, Ebook, Audiobook

Ric Flair is widely considered to be the greatest performer in the history of professional wrestling. A veteran of the territorial era, a multiple time world champion with over four decades as in-ring performer, Flair's career is one of the most storied in the industry's history. Charlotte Flair is one of Ric Flair's four children. A successful high school and college athlete before entering the wrestling industry, Flair has become one of wrestling's premier talents and a key figure in the elevation of the WWE's women's division. Essentially a dual autobiography, Second Nature alternates between Ric Flair's life at the end of his full-time career and his adjustment away from the limelight as a main event player and Charlotte's life growing up as the daughter of a top star in the professional wrestling industry and her entry and into the same business. This is Ric Flair's second book after To Be The Man (2004). This is Charlotte Flair's first book.

Released: Wrestling Dreams By Colt Cabana and Erica Weisz

Wrestling Dreams by Colt Cabana with Illustrations by Erica Weisz was released on November 8. This title is geared toward young readers, however, if Cabana's trademark wit is present, the book is very likely to appeal to all ages.

Wrestling Dreams is available in Hard Cover and Ebook formats at Amazon US CA UK

Notice: Cuttin' & Stuttin' By Brutus Beefcake & Kenny Cassanova Available for Pre-Order.

Cuttin' & Struttin' by Brutus Beefcake and Kenny Cassanova is now available for pre-order via Beefcake's website. The book is due for a late December release.

Released: Saint Mick: My Journey From Hardcore Legend To Santa's Jolly Elf

Mick Foley released his 11th book Saint Mick: My Journey From Hardcore Legend To Santa's Jolly Elf on October 17. The book chronicles Foley winding down his in-ring career and his personal experiences throughout his mission spreading Christmas cheer under the guise of Santa Claus.

From Amazon:

From beloved #1 New York Times bestselling author and WWE Hall-of-Famer Mick Foley comes a Yuletide tale like no other. After a lifetime of putting his body on the line to entertain his dozens (and dozens!) of fans, the Hardcore Legend is paying the price - physically and emotionally. When the final bell on Mick's career tolls, not in the ring, but in a neurologist's office, his future seems far from merry and bright. Until Mick is given the chance to become Santa Claus - not dress up, not pretend, but become Santa - allowing him to rediscover the joy of performing. Fully committing to his new mission, Mick details the drastic measures he takes to keep the Christmas magic alive for his young children, as well as the many children he meets in his travels who are in need of some Christmas Spirit. 

Saint Mick: My Journey From Hardcore Legend To Santa's Jolly Elf is available in hardcover and ebook formats at Amazon US CA UK

Review: No Is A Four Letter Word: How I Failed Spelling But Succeeded In Life by Chris Jericho

No Is A Four Letter Word: How I Failed Spelling But Succeeded In Life
Chris Jericho, Paul Stanley (Foreword)
Da Capo Press, 2017
Hardcover, Ebook

Chris Jericho has been one of the top names in pro wrestling for over two decades. While his in-ring career has been stellar, Jericho is one of the few names from the industry who has made successful transitions into other realms of entertainment. Jericho, as the front man and lead singer for the heavy metal band Fozzy, has toured the world as both a headline act and as supporting performer for many of music's legendary acts. Jericho has also hosted the very popular Talk Is Jericho Podcast on the Podcast One network since 2013. Prior to No Is A Four Letter Word, Jericho penned three New York Times best selling memoirs: A Lion's Tale: Around The World In Spandex, (2007) Undisputed: How To Become The World Champion In 1,372 Easy Steps, (2011) and The Best In The World... At What I Have No Idea (2014). Unlike his previous books, No Is A Four Letter Word is written as a motivational book that, while it contains biographical information, is not strictly an autobiography.

Notice: Crazy Like A Fox - The Definitive Chronicle of Brian Pillman: 20 Years Later By Liam O'Rourke

Liam O'Rourke's Crazy Like A Fox - The Definitive Chronicle of Brian Pillman: 20 Years Later was officially announced earlier this month. This release covers the life and career of Brian Pillman and features interviews with members of the Pillman family, friends and co-workers including: Dave Meltzer, Jim Cornette, Bruce Hart and Raven.  

Crazy Like A Fox - The Definitive Chronicle of Brian Pillman: 20 Years Later is due for a late October release and will be available through most online retailers.  Specific release date(s) and availability will be posted when available.

Review: Mad Dog: The Maurice Vachon Story By Bertrand Hébert & Pat Laprade

Mad Dog: The Maurice Vachon Story

Bertrand Hébert, Pat Laprade, George Toombs (Translation) Paul Vachon (Foreword) Kathie Vachon (Afterword)

ECW Press, 2017 

Paperback, Ebook

Maurice "Mad Dog" Vachon is one of the very rare individuals in pro wrestling history that has transcended time. While many younger wrestling fans have never seen one of Mad Dog's matches or promos, his remains a name that is universally synonymous with the pro wrestling industry. Be it his in-ring style, prominence during the territory days, over the top character, appearances outside of the wrestling industry, Olympic profile, membership in one of the industry's most famed families or the media blitz surrounding a tragic auto accident, Mad Dog Vachon is firmly cemented in the minds of generations of wrestling fans as one of the true legends of the industry. Bertrand Hébert (Accepted) and Pat Laprade (Sisterhood of the Squared Circle) previously collaborated on the 2013 Wrestling Observer Book of the Year: Mad Dogs, Midgets and Screw Jobs. This English version of Mad Dog: The Maurice Vachon Story was translated from the 2015 French Edition by George Toombs and features a foreword by, brother, Paul "Butcher" Vachon and, widow, Kathie Vachon.

Released: WWE: Absolutely Everything You Need To Know By DK Publishing

DK Publishing's WWE Absolutely Everything You Need To Know was released earlier this week.  The book is a collection of WWE related facts, stories and general trivia.  This release is suitable for ages 10+ and, like the majority of DK's titles, will feature a top notch layout with tremendous photography.

WWE: Absolutely Everything You Need To Know is available in Hardcover format at Amazon US CA UK

Released: Slobberknocker: My Life In Wrestling By Jim Ross & Paul O'Brien

Slobberknocker: My Life In Wrestling by Jim Ross with Paul O'Brien - as told to Scott E. Williams - was released today.  The book, one of the most awaited releases of the year, features a foreword by Vince McMahon and an afterword by Steve Austin. Slobberknocker: My Life In Wrestling is hoped to be a thorough and insightful look at the life and career of one of the industry's most prolific and popular figures.

Slobberknocker: My Life In Wrestling is available in hardcover and ebook at Amazon US CA UK

Released: 7 Keys to Becoming a Better Performer: A Book For Fellow Pro-Wrestlers by Mike Quackenbush

7 Keys to Becoming a Better Performer: A Book For Fellow Pro-Wrestlers written by Mike Quackenbush was released on October 16.  Quackenbush is the founder of  Chikara Pro where he also serves as trainer, competitor and "Director of Fun." Quackenbush is also a long time independent wrestler and "Apter Mag" contributor.  Quackenbush's in-ring skills, unique perspective and entertaining style have made him one of the industry's most respected names.

"Pro-wrestling is performance art, and trying to occlude that fact for decades has, in many ways, prevented the evolution of the art form. Little has been written about the challenges modern pro-wrestlers face, and the ways in which they engage with audiences. “7 Keys to Becoming a Better Performer - A Book for Fellow Pro-Wrestlers” offers a fresh, frank examination of the skill set every professional wrestler needs to hone, regardless of where they ply their trade." - Amazon 

7 Keys to Becoming a Better Performer: A Book For Fellow Pro-Wrestlers is available at Amazon US CA UK

Released: Second Nature By Ric Flair & Charlotte

Penned by two generations of world champions, Ric and Charlotte Flair's Second Nature was released today.  The book is the story of the pair's personal and professional struggles and successes and the continual evolution of their relationship and how their bond has both defined and inspired them.

Second Nature is available in Hardcover and Ebook formats at Amazon US CA UK and Indigo.

Released: Mad Dog: The Maurice Vachon Story by Bertrand Hebert & Pat Laprade

The English language edition of Mad Dog: The Maurice Vachon story by Bertrand Hebert & Pat Laprade was released on September 5, 2017. The book features a foreword by Mad Dog's brother Paul "The Butcher" Vachon and an afterword by his widow Kathie Vachon. As an extremely colorful character - within the confines of in an industry of colorful characters - Mad Dog is expected to be an extremely interesting read. The French edition, released in 2015, was met with near universal acclaim. This edition was published by ECW Press.

Mad Dog: The Maurice Vachon Story is available at Amazon US CA UK and Indigo. UK edition due for release on October 5.

Review: I'm A Mark: Dreams and Destiny Of A Wrestling Fan By Fred Esposito

I'm A Mark: Dreams and Destiny Of A Wrestling Fan

Fred Esposito, Bryan Alvarez (Foreword)

Create Space Independent Publishing, 2016

Paperback, Ebook

Note: I thoroughly enjoyed I'm A Mark: Dreams and Destiny of a Wrestling Fan by Fred Esposito, however, the star rating system that I have employed since setting up this blog, would not necessarily reflect this accurately. This is not a reflection of the work, but of the rubric by which I rate books. I can only compare this work to a movie or match that, though it might lack the technical aspects that make a great movie or a five star match, I truly like and re-watch periodically. Therefore, I have opted to not rate this title, though I highly reccomend it. - KM        

Released: No Is A Four-Letter Word: How I Failed Spelling But Succeeded In Life By Chris Jericho

No Is A Four Letter Word: How I Failed Spelling But Succeeded In Life by Chris Jericho with foreword by Paul Stanley hit bookstores on Aug 29.  This is Jericho's fourth release.  His first three titles: A Lion's Tale: Around The World in Spandex, Undisputed: How To Become World Champion in 1,372 Easy Steps & The Best In The World: At What I Have No Idea were all listed on The New York Times Best Seller list and received high marks from most readers and critics. 

The book is available in Hardcover and Ebook through Amazon US CA UK

Released: WWE Volume 1 Graphic Novel By Dennis Hopeless, Dan Mora & Serg Acuna

WWE Volume 1 is the first in a series of new graphic novels from the WWE. Written by Dennis Hopeless and illustrated by Dan Mora and Serg Acuna, Volume 1 covers focuses on the dissolution of The Shield. Volume 2 is expected to be released in early 2018.

The book is available in paperback, ebook and comic format from Amazon US CA UK.

Released: Chief Jay Strongbow Is Real By Timothy Gager

Chief Jay Strongbow Is Real: Poems By Timothy Gager was released in July 2017.  While not a traditional wrestling book, this collection of poetry bares the name of the long time WWF/E Hall of Famer. As noted by Shaindel Beers on the book's Amazon page: "Timothy Gager realises that the actor who portrayed Strongbow, we are all fake... actor(s) within the theatre of our absurdity." 

The book is available in paperback and ebook on Amazon US CA

Released: Kicking Out At Two: Volume 2 By Dropkick Depression

Dropkick Depression, a web-based forum founded by North Eastern U.S. based wrestler Terra Calaway, released Kicking Out At Two: Professional Wrestling Stories On Struggle & Triumph With Depression: Volume 2 on June 2. The book is an uncensored look at the lives of eight pro wrestlers and their personal battles with depression. Volume One was released in January 2017.  

Kicking Out At Two: Volume Two is available at Amazon. US CA

Both volumes and a recently released companion workbook are available at the Dropkick Depression website.

Review: Louisville's Greatest Show: The Story of The Allen Athletic Club By John Cosper

Louisville's Greatest Show: The Story of The Allen Athletic Club
John Cosper
Create Space Independent Publishing, 2017
Paperback, Ebook

When one thinks of the hotbeds of professional wrestling history, Louisville, Kentucky does not immediately jump to mind. While it may not have the profile of New York or The Carolinas, the emotional roller coaster of Dallas or the Game of Thrones like political backdrop of Tennessee, the history of professional wrestling in and around Louisville is no less intriguing. What makes the history of Louisville wrestling so interesting is that it is the story of a continuous ebb and flow of success and failure. It is filled with stories of professional and personal strife and conflict. It features a eclectic mix of history's biggest names at various stages of their careers and personalities who, through choice or fate, are not known to the average wrestling fan. In many ways Louisville could be considered the Everyman of wrestling territories.

Notice: Food Fight: My Plant Powered Journey From The Bingo Halls To The Big Time By Austin Aries and Mike Tully

Former independent wrestler and current WWE Superstar Austin Aries releases his memoir in June. This autobiography recounts Aries life with a special focus on his life as a vegetarian and, later, a vegan. Written with Mike Tully and published by Grey Books Publishing, pre-orders will ship on June 9.

The book is currently available for pre-order via the publisher's website.

Notice: Four Horsemen: A Timeline History by Dick Bourne

Notice Four Horsemen: A Timeline History will be released on June 5 2017. The book is written by Dick Bourne, author of Ten Pounds of Gold and Big Gold, and is published by Mid-Atlantic Gateway. More information is available at Mid Atlantic Gateway.  Mid Atlantic Gateway is a great source for all things related to the history of the Mid-Atlantic (Crockett) territory. Bourne's work is widely regarded among the best historical works in the wrestling genre.

Available at Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK

Notice: Cover Released For Jim Ross' Slobberknocker: My Life In Wrestling

,

On April 25, Jim Ross released the cover of his upcoming autobiography Slobberknocker: My Life in Wrestling. Slobberknocker, co-written by Paul O'Brien and featuring contributions from Vince McMahon and Steve Austin is due for release on October 3, 2017.

It is available for pre-order from:

Amazon US CA UK

Barnes & Noble

Review: Teeny: Professional Wrestling's Grand Dame By Brennon Martin

Teeny: Professional Wrestling's Grand Dame
Brennon Martin
Create Space, 2017
Paperback, Ebook

Available At:
Amazon US CA UK
Indigo 
Barnes & Noble

Christine "Teeny" Jarrett is something of an unsung pioneer in the professional wrestling industry. Decades before the likes of Stephanie McMahon and Dixie Carter were praised as trailblazing females making their marks in the male dominated world of pro wrestling, Jarrett - known more informally as Miss Christine or Teeny - was a true force in the industry who left a lasting impact on those she worked for and with. Current wrestling fans are no doubt very familiar with Teeny's grandson Jeff Jarrett and many, at the very least, are aware of her son Jerry Jarrett. While both younger Jarretts have made significant impacts on the professional wrestling industry, Mrs. Jarrett's has been somewhat lost due to the passage of time. A popular figure in and around the "Memphis Territory" from the 1940s to the 1990s, Jarrett's official roles ranged from ticket seller to promoter. While she excelled in these official occupations, she was also well known and well respected for her honesty, work ethic and morality. Teeny: Professional Wrestling's Grand Dame, written by Mrs. Jarrett's grandson Brennon Martin, chronicles the life and career of Christine Jarrett. The self-published book was released in February 2017 and is currently available in Paperback and Ebook. This is Martin's first book.

Review: Crazy Is My Superpower By A.J. Mendez Brooks

Crazy Is My Superpower: How I Triumphed By Breaking Bones, Breaking Hearts and Breaking The Rules

A.J. Mendez Brooks

Crown Archetype, 2017

Hardcover, Ebook, Audiobook

Available at:

Amazon US CA UK

Indigo

Barnes & Noble

Note: After getting about 80 percent of the ebook completed, a friend of the site - thanks, Dave - was nice enough to give me his copy of the audio book. While I tend to stay away from suggesting specific formats, the audio book absolutely enhanced my enjoyment of this title.  This is not a knock of the written version, but Mendez Brooks does an amazing job - the best I've yet to hear in the pro wrestling genre and is, at the very least, comparable to most authors - of bringing her words off the page. While there are  factors such as cost and availability, if all of these are the same, I highly recommend the audio book version.

Review: Best Seat In The House: Your Backstage Pass Through My WWE Journey

Best Seat In The House: Your Backstage Pass Through My WWE Journey
Justin Roberts w. Tommy Dreamer (Foreword)
Meyer & Meyer Sport, 2017
Hardcover, Ebook, Audiobook (TBR)

Best Seat In The House is available at:
Amazon US CA UK,
Indigo
Barnes & Noble

Un-spoiler Alert: As noted a few places, I try to keep my reviews as "spoiler free" as possible. This often results in general statements concerning  content of a book - it's a book review, not a book report. While a number of the topics in this book are being discussed in specific terms elsewhere on the Information Superhighway, I'm opting to not delve too much into the specifics per usual. Like many fans, I have strong feelings about the information concerning the backstage climate and labour practises of the WWE, but would rather confine this post to my thoughts on Roberts' presentation of his experiences and opinions presented in his book. -KM

Released: Wrestling In The Clinton Years: The Road To Hollywood By Martin Dixon

Blogger Martin Dixon released Wrestling In The Clinton Years: The Road To Hollywood on April 10, 2017. The independently published book is a collection of writings from the Wrestling In The Clinton Years blog. Dixon chronicles the week-to-week development of the nWo story line as presented on WCW Monday Nitro from Jan-Jul 1996.

The book is available in ebook format on Amazon US CA UK

Notice: Scott Williams To Posthumously Receive Jim Melby Award from National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Scott Williams, author of ECW Hardcore History and co-author of the Bill Watts, Jim Duggan and Terry Funk autobiographies, will posthumously receive the James C. Melby Award from the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Hall of Fame. The award honours the work of writers and historians who have shown commitment and dedication to the advancement of professional wrestling through writing. Williams, who passed away in August of 2016, was a journalist, lawyer and Gulf War veteran as well as a well respected and liked member of the professional wrestling journalist community. The award has been given annually since 2006. Previous recipients include: Scott Teal, Bill Apter, Dave Meltzer, Wade Keller, George Napolitano, Greg Oliver and Steve Johnson.

Released: How To Become A Champion By Herb Welch, David Schultz (Foreword)

How To Become a Champion by Herb Welch was re-released on April 2, 2017. Welch, who passed away in 1999, was a member of the huge Welch-Fuller-Golden-Fields wrestling family of the South Eastern United States. The book is Welch's guide to shoot wrestling. This edition, released in conjunction with John Cosper and Eat, Sleep Wrestle, contains a new foreword written by Welch's former student "Dr. D" David Schultz.

Available at Amazon US CA UK

Released: Development Hell: The NXT Story By Michael Sidgwick

Development Hell: The NXT Story by Michael Sidgwick with James Dixon (Editor) and Benjamin Richardson (Illustration) was released in March 2017. Between the dying days of the other major wrestling companies and the near unanimous praise for the early days NXT, the WWE was without a source for fresh yet capable talent. Development Hell tells the story of how poorly thought out plans, shady partnerships and shoddy execution all played roles that kept "development from developing." Written by Michael Sidgwick (Whatculture.com Power Slam Magazine) edited by James Dixon (Titan Sinking, Titan Screwed) and published by Whatculture.com Development Hell: The NXT Story is bound to be a story that the WWE might spin, but will never tell. 

Available at Amazon US CA UK

Note: I've only posted reviews for a couple of the books from the What Culture team, I've read a number of books by James Dixon and am a regular visitor to the website. They are a very strong group of books/writers and I expect this will be a very good work. I've ordered this and will post a review as soon as I can...bit of a backlog happening.

Newly Released: Best Seat In The House: Your Backstage Pass Through My WWE Journey By Justin Roberts

Former WWE ring announcer Justin Roberts' biographical piece Best Seat In The House: Your Backstage Pass Through My WWE Journey was released today (April 1st.) Part inspirational story and part glimpse behind the WWE curtain, Best Seat... has become one of the year's most anticipated releases. Many retailers stocked and delivered the book early and early buzz on social media has been very positive. From Amazon:

This book is the all-access backstage pass for those who have always wondered what it would be like to work at WWE under the infamous Vince McMahon and travel all over the world in cars, buses and planes with the biggest stars of professional wrestling. Justin Roberts pulls no punches and gives you an uncensored, raw look at the journey of a young man chasing, catching and living his dream.

Best Seat In The House is available at Amazon US CA UK, Indigo and Barnes & Noble.

Review: Sisterhood of the Squared Circle: The History and Rise of Women's Wrestling By Pat Laprade & Dan Murphy

Sisterhood of the Squared Circle: The History and Rise of Women's Wrestling
Pat Laprade & Dan Murphy w. Natalya (Foreword)
ECW Press, 2017
Paperback, Ebook

The role of women in the professional wrestling industry is an ever evolving - at times devolving - one that is often seen as less crucial than that of their male counterparts. Some of this is a result of pure numbers as the percentage of female performers has never come close to equalling that of the men, however, many other factors have contributed to this lack of prestige within the annals of wrestling history. One could argue that promoters have misused women's wrestling more often than they have used it. That all being said, there is an absolute wealth of important females who shaped not just women's wrestling, but the pro wrestling industry as a whole.

Newly Released: Looking At The Lights: My Path From Fan To Wrestling Heel By Pete Gas, Adam Copeland (Foreword) John Layfield (Foreword)

Pete Gas, best remembered for his role in the WWF Attitude Era's Mean Street Posse, released a memoir of his wrestling career today. Gas recounts his time as a fan, his entry into the business and his time as a roster member during one of the peak periods in the industry's history. Unlike the vast majority of those he worked with Gas was not a trained wrestler nor had he worked his way up through the independents and/or territories. Due to his long-standing friendship with Shane McMahon, Gas was plucked from "civilian life" and was immediately plugged into a high profile program. From Amazon:

...getting your foot in the door is one thing; staying is a completely different animal. With all eyes on him, knowing his lack of training and meal ticket being the boss’s son, Gas knew he had to win over all those doubters: from the fans and announcers to the wrestlers themselves. Knowing he had to prove himself, Gas took beatings, chair shots, and additional training to not only show that he could wrestle, but that he belonged with such superstars as The Rock, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, and The Undertaker.

Looking At The Lights is available at Amazon US CA UK and Indigo

Review: Bruiser Brody by Emerson Murray and Scott Teal

Bruiser Brody
Emerson Murray, Scott Teal (Editor)
Crowbar Press, 2007
Paperback, Ebook

This review is re-posted from a 2009 message board post I wrote.  It's been tweaked slightly. 

Emerson Murray's 2007 book Bruiser Brody cover the life and career of one of professional wrestling's most enigmatic personalities. This is Murray's sole professional wrestling book and was edited by Scott Teal of Crowbar Press. In 2015, it was re-released in ebook format.

Announced: A Wrestling Life 2 by Dan Gable

A Wrestling Life 2 by Dan Gable has been announced with a June release. This is the follow up to the successful 2015 release A Wrestling Life also by Gable. Gable was an Olympic Gold Medalist and renowned amateur coach. While not a professional wrestler, Gable's had and enormous influence on the careers of several professional wrestlers and MMA competitors. The "prequel" was very well received by readers. The book is published by The University of Iowa press and is co-written by Kyle Klingman

The book is available for pre-order at Amazon US CAN UK

Newly Released: Ropes and Glory: The Emotional Rise of British Wrestling

Ropes and Glory: The Emotional Rise of British Wrestling by Greg Lambert was released earlier this month. This is Lambert's second pro wrestling book after 2012's Holy Grail. Ropes and Glory recounts the "re-birth" of British pro wrestling. Considering the recent success of many of the UK's performers and promotions and the region's (re) emergence as a hotbed of pro wrestling , Ropes and Glory is bound to be a very interesting and topical read.

Ropes and Glory: The Emotional Rise of British Wrestling is available at Amazon US CAN UK

Newly Released: Louisville's Greatest Show: The Story of the Allen Athletic Club by John Cosper

Kentucky wrestling history John Cosper brings the story of Louisville, KY's first professional wrestling promotion. Released in February 2017, Cosper covers the early years of pro wrestling in one of the most often overlooked wrestling hotbeds in the United States. Whereas his earlier book Bluegrass Brawlers was a big picture look at the history of the region, Louisville's Greatest Show focuses on the area's Golden Age (1935-1957). Cosper has also written Eat, Sleep, Wrestle and co-authored Kenny Bolin's I Probably Screwed You Too...  Cosper also runs the website eatsleepwrestle.com.

Louisville's Greatest Show: The Story of the Allen Athletic Club, is available on paperback at Amazon US

Released: The Greatest Wrestling Ever in the History of Nashville Vol. 1

The Greatest Wrestling Ever in the History of Nashville Volume 1 by Scott Teal & Don Luce is now available for order at crowbarpress.com. The book, #2 in Crowbar's "Greatest Cities of Wrestling" series is an  in depth look at Nashville's wrestling scene from 1907 to the 1960s.

Released: When It Was Big Time By Rock Rims

When It Was Big Time: A 100 Hundred Year History of Northern California Wrestling by Rock Rims was released in late 2016. The self published book chronicles over a century of professional wrestling in and around the San Francisco territory. Over 300 pages with over 200 photographs. 

The book, already in its third printing, is available at the link below:

When It Was Big Time

Note: Ali vs. Inoki Wins Wrestling Observer Book of the Year 2016

Josh Gross' Ali vs. Inoki: The Forgotten Fight That Inspired Mixed Martial Arts and Launched Sports Entertainment picks up the 2016 Wrestling Observer Award for Best Pro Wrestling Book. Runners up were: Accepted by Pat Patterson and Rowdy: The Roddy Piper Story by Ariel and Colt Toombs.

Review will be posted in the coming days.

Available at Amazon USA CAN UK

Released: The Official WWE Book of Rules: (And How To Break Them)

The Official WWE Book of Rules: (And How To Break Them)
By WWE Editors, Daniel Bryan (Foreword)

The Official WWE Book of Rules has been released by Media-Lab Books for the WWE. 

From Amazon: 
Do you know the difference between a Hollywood Backlot Brawl and a Brooklyn Street Fight? What happens at the end of an Iron Man match if there's no clear victor? Which move is off-limits inside a WWE ring? With The Official WWE Book of Rules, you'll no longer need to ask. This complete guide to every single style of WWE match-stipulation or otherwise, lays out all of WWE's rules (many published for the first time) and also calls out Superstars who have no problem breaking them. With insight and commentary from WWE's brightest Superstars as well as veteran referees, it's the ultimate companion to anyone who believes rules were made to be broken.

It is currently available in Paperback at Amazon.com and Amazon.ca

Released: I'm A Mark Dreams And Destiny of A Wrestling Fan By Fred Esposito

I'm A Mark: Dreams and Destiny of a Wrestling Fan by Fred Esposito with a foreword by Wrestling Observer / Figure Four Weekly's Bryan Alvarez was released in the Fall of 2016. I'm A Mark is the autobiographical account of a long-time wrestling fan who fell short of attaining his dream of working for the WWE. For an independent release, the book has been generating a fair bit of internet buzz. It is available on ebook and paperback. 

Available at Amazon. USA CAN

New Release: "Teeny" Professional Wrestling's Grand Dame. By Brennon Martin

Brennon Martin, grandson of Christine Jarrett (AKA Teeny) has released a new book chronicling the life and times of one of the most influential females in the pro wrestling business. Jarrett was a key figure in the office of the Memphis wrestling territory for several decades. She was the mother of promoter/booker Jerry Jarrett and grandmother of Jeff Jarrett.

The book has been added to the Amazon stores: USA CAN

Review: The Three Count: My Life In Stripes As A WWE Referee By Jimmy Korderas

The Three Count: My Life In Stripes As A WWE Referee
Jimmy Korderas, Adam "Edge" Copeland (Foreword)
ECW Press, 2013
Paperback, Ebook

For over 20 years, Jim Korderas was a main stay with the WWF/E. While best remembered as a referee, Korderas began his career with the WWF in 1985 as a driver and member of the ring crew working for Jack Tunney at the WWF Toronto office. Korderas soon became a full-time referee and held the position - apart from a brief hiatus - until 2009. The book recounts Korderas' career from his entry into the business - at the apex of the Hulkamania era, through the New Generation, Attitude and Ruthless Aggression Eras - until the years immediately following his 2009 departure. Since leaving the WWF/E, Korderas has made a name for himself in the broadcasting world as a regular co-host of

Announced: Saint Mick By Mick Foley

Earlier this week, Polis Books announced the upcoming release Saint Mick by Mick Foley. The book is described as a "part jolly memoir, part whimsical ode to a lifetime love affair with Christmas, part time solemn tribute to the power of finding the best part of oneself in the unlikeliest of places." The book is due for release on Oct 17, 2017.

Available for pre-order at Amazon. US CAN UK

Review: Fritz Von Erich: Master Of The Iron Claw By Ron G. Mullinax

Fritz Von Erich: Master Of The Iron Claw
By Ron G. Mullinax
Hats Off Books, 2005
Paperback, Ebook

Note: This review was a difficult one to write due to the amount of conflicting information and debated subject matters relating to the Von Erich family. As I did while reading the book, I looked at the book as a purely autobiographical piece. I've tried to avoid falling down a rabbit hole of over analysing things about Fritz Von Erich and the Von Erich family that are based on rumour and/or conjecture. The book was written posthumously by a friend of Von Erich and took the form of a basic autobiography. Many readers may prefer a more in-depth work or a salacious tell-all, however, the author (whose own motives have been questioned) opted to tell Von Erich's story from his perspective. He does not question Von Erich's narrative as a typical biographer is likely to do.

The story of the rise and fall of the Von Erich family is a tragic yet captivating story that has intrigued wrestling fans for several decades. Fritz Von Erich was a successful wrestler and promoter. Von Erich was the guiding force behind the revolutionary Texas promotion

New Release: Wrestling In The Garden: The Battle For New York: Works, Shoots and Double-Crosses By Scott Teal & J Michael Kenyon

Scott Teal and J Michael Kenyon's Wrestling In The Garden: The Battle For New York: Works, Shoots & Double Crosses is a new release from Crowbar Press that features a comprehensive listing of every wrestling card to have taken place at Madison Square Garden between 1875 and 2016. Wrestling In The Garden is currently available exclusively at Crowbar Press.