Man in the Middle

There are many likable and useful elements in this book. His relationship with his Mother was amazingly influential on the man he became (and is still becoming). His father was apparently absent -yet he survived and thrived. The stories of his time in the pros give anyone in such a life the vision to see a life after their time is over. It's basically an inspiring book for anyone who has to transition out of one career and into another. all along he was planning to do just that. He was not overly impressed with the glamour and money that make up life for many pro ballplayers. I also really liked Greg Louganis's book BREAKING THE SURFACE. Both books held some surprises. And as I also graduated from Penn State Univ, I was especially interested in his time there. the recent NFL player, Carl Nassib, who came out is also a Penn State graduate.

I originally thought this was another tell-all book on the secret lives of downlow basketball players. But it wasn't and this is a good thing. John goes into great detail explaining his distraught childhood in Manchester to becoming one of the best players in the NBA. It is quite inspiring reading his life experiences. This is a great book for someone who may think they don't amount to anything great. Pick up this book and begin a new outlook on life.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was a fan of Meech and even had a little crush on him when I watched him play with the Magic. I was impressed with how he behaved on and off the court as a person. When this book came out, I was surprised and disappointed to learn that he was gay (he was on my "list" of dream men that I would love to meet someday - shoot). I was surprised when he shared his views on his body image and desirability, he didn't know how others viewed him. I'm sure he will make someone a wonderful partner. John's life's journey is certainly no accident, it appears that his struggles prepared him to illustrate to the world how determination conquers all. I believe that John is the right person to show that gay men can be great basketball players, mentors and role models for us all. I found John's story to be both heartbreaking and inspiring. I felt so sad for him because of the struggles he had with being accepted growing up and dealing with the whole akwardness of school life. I find his willingness to share his story inspiring because of the relationship he had with his mother and the goal he had for "The Plan". John's writing took me to every place he went in an effort to fulfill "The Plan". What stood out to me the most was when he described his experience with the Utah Jazz. I'm a sports fan, and I must admit that I never cared for Utah's coach - I was appalled by what John described. John's description about the lockeroom behavior with so called "straight" players in the league was classic comedy, I never laughed so hard. John has a knack for incorporating humor at the right times throughout the book. I really hope that the NBA keeps recognizing John Amaechi - he is an outstanding individual. I'm glad he shared his story and hopefully he will inspire others to be more tolerant and respectful toward all individuals, especially the thought of gay athletes in professional sports. I bought this book and I plan on sharing it as a gifts for other sports fans who are fans of John and admire his courage to show the world who he really is as a man. I'm still bummed that women aren't his thing, but I can respect him and give him his propers. Well done.

This was a quick read and a real treat for any basketball fan. If you follow basketball you will love the read and even if you don't follow b-ball you will love the book even more. John Amaechi's story is one of many that will never be told. I will assure you that you will be touched by the story and it's unfolding tale of struggle. John Amaechi will be a hero for many after they read this story and he helps them to "come out" to end their struggle. I am so pleased with Amaechi that he is now endorsing the head razor and that more importantly he is working with the Human Rights Campaign. Way to go John! You have put a smile on my face and some great good feelings in my heart. I can only imagine my child-like reaction if I were to meet this great man in person. Mark Williams, Pickaway County, Ohio

John Amaechi's book chronicles the life of a young man who has dedicated himself to helping others achieve their best. His respect, love, and dedication to his mother, who raised three children by herself, is admirable. His perspective on family, especially the mother/son relationship, illustrates what unconditional love is all about. The book is not necessarily a "coming out" but rather a commentary on those who have touched John's life for better and for worse. However, the statement that the book makes concerning gay athletes definitely needs to be heard by everyone, not just homophobic athletes and coaches in the NBA. John's message that we are all human beings with our own strengths and weaknesses is more of a testimony to who he is rather than to his sexual orientation. John's candor, his cynicism, and his sincerity make this book a must read for everyone.

I am not a basketball fan, but did learn a lot about this sport through reading John's account. I was pleasantly surprised, and, as gay man I bought the book expecting another "coming out" story which would simply be perfunctory. It is quite the opposite. It is engaging and extremely well written. I have recommended to several friends who are not "sports minded" as I think anyone can open up their minds to this intriguing story.