Get in the Game: 8 Elements of Perseverance That Make the Difference

This book provides extremely useful guidelines in dealing with situations we all eventually run into in our lives. While alluding to baseball related examples, it does not simply dwell solely on recounting Mr. Ripken's impressive baseball accomplishments or relate amusing/interesting anecdotes. Instead it gives thought-provoking insights into two all too fast-disappearing basic axioms in our country's psyche: "practice makes perfect," and "do unto others." I highly recommend this book for everyone, especially young people still in their formative years. In fact, it presents an excellent opportunity for parents to reconnect with their child(ren) by reading it aloud and together, with discussion centering on each of the eight elements as they are completed.

This is an excellent book by one of our modern-day greats: Cal Ripken, Jr. A native of Aberdeen, Maryland, he spent his entire career with the Baltimore Orioles. He broke a record that many said would stand forever, and this book parallels the former holder of that feat, Lou Gehrig, with a treasure trove of quotes about the latter's life. In a sense, we learn as much about the character and perseverance of Mr. Gehrig as we do about Mr. Ripken. One early quote set the tone for the entire book: "I just played because I loved the game, and because I had been taught certain principles that prevented me from backing away from anything." Mr. Ripken chronicled his youth, the special relationship with his father, Cal, Sr., and then explained in concise fashion his eight principles for perseverance. Some themes related directly to baseball, while others are about life itself. Here are the eight elements: Right Values Strong Will to Succeed Love What You Do Preparation Anticipation Trusting Relationships Life Management The Courage of Your Convictions This is a very entertaining and informative book. Thank you for the opportunity to review it.

I am not now nor have I ever been a baseball fan. It just never appealed to me. But Cal Ripken has been heralded as the nicest guy in baseball and the sub-title ("8 elements of perseverance that make a difference" was definitely attractive, so I read the book. I'm glad I did. Ripken interweaves a literal history of baseball into his core message of how persevverance plays out in a ball game and life. It's an interesting, informative approach. I can see why Ripken has succeeded in his motivational speaking career as he did is his baseball career: life literally starts anew each day for this guy. Yesterday's msitakes and regrets are left behind. One of the most fascinating parts of the book for me are Ripken's descriptions of team work in baseball and how it works. Frankly, because I've never been a fan, I didn't realize just how much cooperation and coordination is required on the field. Overall, a very worthwhile read and uplifting. Jerry

Cal Ripken (who is one of the greatest baseball players to every play the game)is someone who has become a successful business entrepenuer and someone who is in high demand on the speaking circuit. In this book, Cal does a great job of sharing his insight and approach to not only baseball but how he lives his life and conducts his business. Whether your a baseball fan or not, you will find this book to be entertaining and full of valuable information that will help you become better at being a baseball player, teammate, co-worker, parent, or spouse.

What a Book!! One those great books you have to read over & over again. Not just a book for sports people, a book for every one who wants to get somewhere in their life.