R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed on 2/14/2017 + 1452 more book reviews

This biography by Andre Agassiz is an astounding read. Agassiz opens his heart and tells his story, both the good and the bad. He is a sensitive, caring individual whose father was an ogre, driving him into tennis from the crib on. As a tiny baby his mobile was made of tennis balls and a paddle was attached to his hand to hit them. His father built a tennis ball machine (Andre called it the dragon) that shot balls at him quickly and constantly until he felt that Andre could quit. Consequently, Andre hated tennis but it was all he knew to do since he dropped out of school. However, he could pull every match out of his mind and talk about it in detail.

The reader sees Agassiz's frank appraisal of his romance and marriage with Brooke Shields. The two were far apart the things they really valued most about life. Brooke wanted to be the center of attention, loved parties, clothing, and the media. Agassiz was quiet, reflective, and reveled in quiet time with his friends. As talented as he was he often doubted himself, his goals and his game. When he was at his best few could beat him on the court but when life issues and his emotions ruled he found tennis difficult and the games a trial. I have always enjoyed watching him on the court so reading this biography gave me insight into the gentle and caring person that he is.

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