World Class

I first read this book almost 18 years ago as a teenager. I can honestly say, that this one book, more than any other, taught me about life and it's little miracles. Gloriously written, with it's heart absolutely in the right place. I was able to procure a weatherbeaten copy of this book from a library that was discarding used books, and I still read the book today. Especially, when I need a little reminder or pick me up that things can always get better.

I've read this book over and over (in fact I'm traveling and in the midst of Wimbledon I'm desperate to read it again). A wonderful story that illuminates the history of pro tennis -- but you don't have to care about tennis in the least because it's the characters that are so absorbing. I'm still waiting for my "Christopher."What's stuck with me -- and, apparently, with other people who have reviewed this somewhat obscure novel -- is the defining morals and character of the "people" in the book. They are incredibly real to me. They remind -- or teach -- the reader that honor is attainable, graceful, worth reaching for even at great personal sacrifice. A great, great novel. It's obscurity, I guess, is due to the tennis theme...but even if I didn't like tennis I'd love this book.

One of the great fiction sport books, with characters that you wish you could meet. Inspiring and memorable in every way. It's a terrible shame that this great book is out of print.

There is one tune that you could hear over and over. There may be a film you can see again and again. This is the book you will read and reread. A little blunt and dated, still you will not put it down in the middle and you will be reading it again soon. It is a book about tennis that those who abhore sport will love. It is a book about love that detesters of mushy love-stories will return to with pleasure. It dexcribes ideas, ideals, values and dreams. Characters create a strong sense of desire to identify with them. For more than 20 years this has remained the book that has influenced my values most and the only book I have read more than twice. Read it.. you will not read it only once.

Great story about the world of tennis, but more about people working towards a dream and what they are willing to do to acheive it. A wonderful story about honor, courage, humor, love and freindship. Highly recommended. I read it every time I feel down.