Book Review: To Be The Man

When I was 6 years old, I became a fan of the World Wrestling Federation. In fact, I was probably their ideal fan. We never subscribed to TBS, therefore, I had no exposure to World Championship Wrestling. There were a ton of talented guys back then who I had no idea even existed. One of which was Ric Flair.

When Vince brought Flair into the fold in 1991, I had no clue who this “old man” was. Why did he have a separate championship title? Why was Bobby Heenan going nuts over him? My only real memory of Flair as a kid was that Bret Hart had beaten him for his first World Wrestling Federation Heavyweight title (I was, and still remain, a huge fan of Bret).

Flair takes a few shots at guys who he believes did not belong in the business, and with good reason. Why I may not agree with his assessment of Bret Hart, where at one point he calls him formulaic (Flair is also quite guilty of this; riding the same spots in most of his matches), he is pretty much correct in all of his opinions when it comes to guys like Sid Vicious, Paul Roma and the Von Erich’s.

Without a doubt, the highlights of this book lie in Flairs incredible “road stories”. He’s universally known as the wildest party animal of the pro wrestling world. Explaining that he constantly “lived” his character; he spent outlandish amounts of money on limos, custom made apparel and stunning bar tabs. His tales of debauchery with the likes of Roddy Piper, Terry Funk, Arn Anderson, Bobby Heenan and other friends are incredibly entertaining. One of note involving Flair & Piper running through a hotel lobby “clotheslining” potted plants had me laughing out loud.

I wasn’t until Flair returned to the WWE in 2001 that I started to realize that he was a big deal. In 2003, more specifically, WWE released a DVD set chronicling Flair’s greatest rivalries and matches. After going through it, I was stunned that a guy this exceptional was off of my radar for so long. Who could blame me? Even when WCW was at its hottest, I never viewed him as a threat to the nWo or any main event performer.

The way that WCW treated Ric Flair in the late 90s was appalling. Flair goes into great deal about how Eric Bischoff and Jim Herd (WCW executives) nearly destroyed any confidence he had in himself by publicly degrading him and throwing him in nonsensical storylines with little or no plans. To this day, I’ve read countless wrestling biographies and I cannot say that I’ve read or heard someone say they enjoyed their time in WCW.

In closing, the guys today could learn a lot from Flair. I agree with his views on how the business today is far too scripted; I think the guys in the back should be allowed to be given some free range over their promos or their in ring work. Overall, the book overall is an enjoyable one, in fact, one of the best WWE produced efforts. That being said, I think the book could have benefited more by going a little more in-depth or if he had actually waited until his career is over - unfortunately, at 62, Flair is still going strong in the ring. I don’t know if his career will ever end, at least not by choice.

American Slang

Book Review: Mockingjay

I really wanted to write this epic review about how much I enjoyed the Hunger Games Trilogy. However, I pretty much related all of what I felt in my first two reviews. You know, just overall. About that horrible, sick feeling in my stomach when terrible things happen to undeserving people – well, that never actually went away when I made my way through this final installment. In fact, it only grew stronger.

That's what is so great about a captivating series. If done correctly, you really get to know the characters and if the writer is great enough, he/she knows how to play with your emotions.

For example, the love triangle aspect becomes worse (and I don't mean that in an "unbearable" sense) when Peeta resurfaces. I don't quite understand why exactly I wasn't annoyed with it. 3 novels in and Katniss still can't make her mind up about who she wants to be with. Normally, this type of thing would have worn thin on me; I may have even abandoned it completely. However, with the intensity of the rebellion playing in the forefront, it diverted my attention. Collins' knows this world and those that inhabit so well that when events occur, you're not left with this feeling that she was throwing out occurrences left and right for cheap thrills.

Everything is central to the storyline; nothing appears to be wasted. In the end, you're left wondering how Katniss can even continue on. She's on the receiving end of knockout blow after knockout blow. Just looking back at the series in full, how she continues to get back up on her feet is astounding.

I was a little worried with how the author was going to wrap this up. This is a tremendous series and it is worthy of an ending that blows you away yet gives you a satisfied feeling of resolve. Collins' manages to do both. Also, while not entirely necessary, the epilogue is a nice touch.

***P.S***

Not that it has anything to do with the books, but I'm weary of the film adaptation. I have this feeling that it's just going to fall flat.

I read that Collins' is overseeing the project and I'm sure she'll try to stay as close to her vision as possible. That being said, it entirely depends on what market they're trying to hit with movie go-ers. The series can be somewhat graphic and I'm interested to see what they're keen on showing and what they'll hold back on.

***P.P.S***

I have this feeling that Collins' isn't done with the series yet. I mean, if she chooses to do so, she can go back through 75 years of Hunger Games and write a few prequels. I know I'd pick them up.

Book Review: Catching Fire

This book is a far better book than The Hunger Games and I have no idea how that’s possible.

Let me explain. I accept that I’m going to come into contact with books that are exceptional, books that are better than what I had previously read in the past, but a sequel kicking the ass of the original? I know! I couldn’t believe it either - especially when I factor in just how much I loved “Book 1”.

This time around, Katniss and Peeta have to deal with the fact that by becoming co-winners of The Hunger Games, they inadvertently became rebels, inspiring the beginning stages of an uprising. Fuel is only added to the fire when Peeta declares his intentions to share the spoils of victory with the families of the allies he had in battle. The Capitol does not take kindly to their unselfish ways and in an effort to put an end to the potential crumbling of society, they respond with vicious and ruthless force. The response? Extreme reinforcement of rules, public torture and even execution.

When Katniss witnessed the revision of the Quarter Qwell, placing past victors back into the arena for another go around in The Hunger Games, I felt for her. I literally felt this enormous weight in my gut, like someone had punched me. Probably due to the way that Collins writes Katniss’ reaction; it was just so vivid. Screaming, breaking furniture and running into the streets like a person overcome with madness. For Katniss, the nightmares never stopped; she never fully recovered from the horror of killing her peers, from surviving the brutal battle in the Games. The idea of having to go back in after being assured that she was safe from future involvement (aside from being mentor) had to be soul crushing.

As I mentioned earlier, the feeling in my gut rarely went away. Collins' ability to write about violence without the use of vulgarity is the key to this series being YA. It's certainly refreshing for me. Hey, don't get me wrong, I loves me some over the top violence (one of the reasons I love Stephen King and movies like "Machete") but its nice to use a characters emotions and feelings of vulnerability to instill feelings of disgust. Does that make sense?

I love this book and I'm poised to view this trilogy as one of my favorites (provided Book III is not a let down). I can't recommend this enough.

WrestleMania XXVII Predictions!

Some of you may know that I'm a big pro wrestling nerd. I've been watching since I was 6 years old, beginning with WrestleMania VI in 1990. I have very vivid memories of watching it with my father while we both ate Kraft Dinner on a Saturday afternoon. I've been hooked ever since.

I'd like to think that maybe over those 21 years (wow), I've gained a little insight into how this strange spectacle operates, so therefore, I'm going to post my predictions for this weekends 27th installment of the showcase of the immortals.

World Heavyweight Championship Edge (c) vs. Alberto Del Rio

To be honest, while I am looking forward to this match, I don't particularly have the highest of hopes. I mean, I like ADR and all and have been a pretty big supporter of Edge over the years, but I just don't know if these guys have chemistry. I had really hoped that with the way WWE had been throwing Christian in the mix lately, that they would make it a triple threat match. However, its still possible that it may end up being a solid 3 star match. WWE clearly has ambitions for the Mexican aristocrat, so I see him going forth as champion on Sunday. I fully expect Christian to get involved causing some sort of controversy over Del Rio's win.

Winner: Alberto Del Rio

WWE Championship John Cena vs. The Miz (c)

This Miz is winning this for sure, without a doubt. There's been too much focus put on The Rock's rivalry of words with John Cena over the past month, leaving Miz lurking in the background. Sure, Miz has injected himself with promos targeting both The Rock and Cena but really, who cares? I really do enjoy The Miz and I'm a big fan of his title run, so I expect it to continue. Expect the end to come with Cena and The Rock mixing it up leading to Miz taking advantage of an incapacitated John Cena, stealing the win.

Winner: The Miz

No Holds Barred Triple H vs. The Undertaker

There is NO WAY Triple H is ending the streak. As awesome as that confrontation was on Monday night, and believe me it was awesome, I see no reason why Triple H should end the streak. In fact, aside from Shawn Michaels, I see no reason why anyone should ever end the streak. That being said, I still think this is going to be the show-stealer, easily. With my heel heavy championship predictions, there's no way this isn't going on last.

Winner: The Undertaker

Randy Orton vs. CM Punk

Again, I'm predicting another heel win here. CM Punk needs to win this match. I know Orton punted all members of the new Nexus in the skull over the previous weeks but I predict either Punk to debut a new member or bring out former member, Skip Sheffield as enforcement. It would be a shame for this feud to end after only one match-up. I think with Punk winning, Orton will request a match at Extreme Rules, possibly a steel cage - effectively keeping all members of Nexus out.

Winner: CM Punk

Cody Rhodes vs. Rey Mysterio

While building up Rhodes as a loose cannon over the past few weeks, he seems to have too much momentum going into Sunday's clash. With WWE's general rule of reverse momentum (when a superstar has dominated prior to their meeting only to ultimately lose), I can see Mysterio squeaking out a victory. With Extreme Rules around the corner, expect a bitter Rhodes to challenge Mysterio to another match, something more in his favor.

Winner: Rey Mysterio

8-Man Tag The Corre vs. Santino, Kozlov, Kane & Big Show

This is a hard prediction. No team really seems to have the upper hand. While The Corre is being pushed to the moon on Smackdown holding the Tag Team and Intercontinental championships, they seem like the safe bet. I'm not expecting much from this match, if anything, this is this year's filler contest.

Winner: The Corre

Snooki, Trish Stratus & John Morrison vs. LayCool & Dolph Ziggler

This is another easy one. I don't think Snooki is going to lose. It's a shame that it's been several years since Trish has returned in a semi-regular on screen role and we're given a tag match with Snooki. I know, I know..WrestleMania has always been about celebrities but Trish is one of the only truly exceptional Diva wrestlers in the companies history. I can't understand why they wouldn't want her in there one on one against someone like Beth Phoenix or Natalya.

Winner: Snookie, Trish Stratus and John Morrison

Michael Cole(w/Jack Swagger) vs. Jerry "The King" Lawler
Special Guest Referee: Stone Cold Steve Austin.

Cole has been fantastic in the last few months, almost everything he says is entertaining and hilarious. He did a total 180 degree turn from what he used to be: boring and predictable. If this match goes anyway this Sunday other than Cole getting annihilated with fist drops, pile-drivers and stunners..then something is terribly wrong.

Winner: Jerry Lawler

United States Championship Daniel Bryan vs. Sheamus

Unless it's given about 5 minutes and change of ring time, I fully expect this to be the undercard match of the evening. Sheamus showed back in December that he can put on one hell of a show in his ladder match with John Morrison and Daniel Bryan has proven time and time again that he's an excellent performer - so I expect big things from this one. It's hard to predict a winner but I'm going to go with Sheamus; only because I can't see him dropping the title after sustaining such a soul-crushing losing streak to start the year.

Winner: Sheamus

There you go! I know everyone cannot compete on the grandest stage of them all but with no Kofi Kingston, Christian, Evan Bourne and R-Truth on the card, it seems a little odd. However, there is no Money in the Bank match this year, so that's your main reason.

January Hymn

Man, The Decemberists are awesome. By far, this is my favorite song on their new album. Everyone should give this a listen.

Book Review: The Hunger Games

My experience in the realm of young adult fiction is very limited - I think I've only read one other book. That being said, I had no idea what to expect. If I'm being honest here, I thought I might be exposed to something like Twilight - of which I had no desire. Having not read Twilight, I can't imagine Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games being anything close as I have a hard time believing anyone can truly hate this book.

These kids, they're being forced by a strict repressive government to battle it out to the death with the reason being, "Hey, don't forget who's in charge here people". You have those from the wealthier districts who have trained their whole lives for the chance at glory. The chance to kill those who are being forced to fight. In Collins' vision of the future, humanity has become so jaded, so disgusting that they consider the violent demise of children as entertainment. Even in the end, after the games are over, the thought that over 20 teens being murdered for no beneficial reason, just washes over the citizens of The Capitol. It's a horrifying thought to imagine society degrading to this level - yet really, is it really impossible? With the advent of reality television in the mid-to late 90s and the influx of websites that ridicule people and their misfortune on a daily basis, it appears the feelings of many are irrelevant. With the atrocities being committed overseas in war-torn countries and the fact that little is done by the average citizen in the wealthier nations is a sign that possibly, maybe eventually, this could become a form of entertainment. These aren't real people, they're contestants.

*Ahem* Let me get off my soapbox here.

Sometime in the future - an approx. date is never given, other than that the Hunger Games has been held 70+ times previously - North America has been rebuilt after a series of wars and environmental disasters. The continent is now known as Panem and is broken up in to twelve separate districts all surrounding The Capitol. Each district is supported by a core industry (textiles, agriculture, coal, etc), which in turn, supports The Capitol. Over the course of Panem's history, there have been several revolutions in an attempt to overthrow those who maintain an iron fist over the districts but always resulted in failure.

In an effort to show the Districts who's boss, The Capitol instigated The Hunger Games. Each year, two representatives from each District must partake in a giant fight to the death, the winner of which will be the recipient of a much easier life and several gifts for their homeland. The novel follows Katniss Everdeen, a resident of District 12, who along with Peeta Mellark are drafted into the battle.

Katniss is quite the lead character. Collins writes her with such spirit that she is easily one of the strongest female characters I've ever seen. She's a total badass. She hunts, kills and keeps her family alive at the tender age of 16. All that she's learned in her short life transfers well into her quest for survival in the games and you're rooting for her right from the start.

Overall, the novel itself is surprisingly violent. While Collins holds back a little, she still reveals a lot. Many of the deaths are quite descriptive with acts of poisoning, explosion and raw physical contact; this is not a book to be taken lightly. While all of this is happening, Collins writes a love story that eventually takes center stage. While I found some of the dialogue to be a little cheesy, you could probably defend that with Katniss' desire to remain alive.

I'm become enthralled with future fiction heavily influenced by dystopian society, maybe I was a little predisposed to like this than most but I was sucked in from beginning to end. I'd happily recommend this. However, I probably don't even have too. It appears to be one of the most widely read books on this site.