Posted by chicagomedia.org on October 13, 2009 at 10:31:39:
My book is out: Great Book of Chicago Sports Lists
Posted by Ed S. at 10/13/2009 2:35 AM CDT on Chicago Business
After writing thousands of articles, I finally have my first book in the books.
"The Great Book of Chicago Sports Lists" will hit the stores this week. Co-written with Dan McNeil of WSCR-AM 670, the book is an all-encompassing best-worst, overrated-underrated, memorable-forgettable series of lists on our local heroes, past and present.
The lists include Michael Jordan and Walter Payton's best games; best-and-worst trades for Cubs and White Sox; best-and-worst coaches for all the pro teams; best and worst announcers; unsung heroes; heartbreaking moments. And much more.
One of my favorite lists was one I did on forgettable quarterbacks who started for the Bears since 1980. The dishonor roll is painful (Remember Steve Stenstrom, Peter Tom Willis...) No. 1 was the trio of Jonathan Quinn, Craig Krenzel and Chad Hutchinson. They started games for the Bears in 2004. And then they never played another another down in the NFL again, underscoring their ineptitude.
Several of Mr. McNeil's lists definitely fall under the unconventional heading. Since he has a unique grasp of pop culture, we spiced up the book with his observations ranging from best pizza places to favorite local bands and more. One list will generate some attention, but I'll let you find out for yourself.
The book also features several guest lists. We got Dick Butkus' view on what it takes to be a successful linebacker. John McDonough weighed in on sports marketing. Bill Wennington broke down the coaching genius of Phil Jackson.
I talked to Norm Van Lier a few weeks before he died to get his rating of the toughest Bulls. None were tougher than Mr. Van Lier, and my conversation with him was one of my most memorable moments about the book.
The book is published by Running Press and sells for $14.95. Mr. McNeil and I grace the cover. Please don't let that deter you from buying the book.