[.ca] A Shining Season: The True Story of John Baker (ISBN 0826310168)

This is sooooo great!:
I had to read this book for English class and at first I'd thought it'd be a real drag because, in my opinion, most non-fiction books are. Well I got to reading it and I found just how good it really was. The class was supposed to be at page 72 by Tuesday (currently Saturday) but I've already finished it. I just couldn't put it down!! I have to admit though that the part when they referred to the little boy and girl being potheads made me laugh and a few other parts as well but its also a tear jerker! And Jill, I'd love to have your email address as well. Email me at born2kick@hotmail.com if you can.

Tear jerker about a life well lived:
An outstanding book. I'm an emotional sap and cry at the drop of a hat, but if any one can read this book and not go through a few tissues they either have incredible emotional control or are extremely cold. I started this book yesterday after I got home, around lunch time. I finished it (250 pages) last night. I don't think I've ever done that before. It reads fast. It is the tragic, yet wonderful, true story of John Baker - one of American's best milers in 1969. He teaches elementary school kids and truly lives a life of purpose; a life well lived. Buy this book now and read it, but stock up on the tissues. You'll come away wishing you had known him. This is mostly a book about teaching kids and heroic character and doesn't talk much about running.

He Made a Difference:
This true story of a runner and coach tugs at your heart strings. It is so sad , at times I could not see the page because of my tears. Mr. Buchanan does a remarkable job of painting the portrait of this young man's life in a realistic manner. Very well written - THIS WAS A GREAT READ!!!

Great read for all in struggling times:
This book caught my attention as an exciting true story that fulfills one's need to feel inspired. It is rather tragic that one of our country's greatest track stars hadto succomb to such a most undesirable opponent that is very hard to beat; cancer. The book let's the reader know how it is to live with cancer, and how John coped with it. Throughout his terrible ordeal, John inspired children in his community to strive for their full potential. If you enjoy a great book that reads fast, then this is a definite for you.

AMAZING story - a favorite of mine for years!:
I first read this book in high school and pull it out to re-read it whenever I need a "guaranteed" good read. As an educator, I admire the story and the life of John Baker and strive to make a difference in my students' lives as he did. A great novel and one I hope to teach at my high school!