12/10/2006

Tigers, Red Wings, Pistons — oh my!

By Al Parker

Special to the Record-Eagle

If you have Detroit sports fans on your holiday gift list, there are a couple of stunning new publications available.

• "Not Till the Fat Lady Sings: The Most Dramatic Finishes in Detroit Sports History,” (Triumph Books, 174 pages) is a compilation of great stories done by the sports-writing staff of the Detroit Free Press. This is an attractive, informative volume packed with legendary come-from-behind tales, including highlights from the Tigers, Red Wings, Pistons and boxing legend Joe Louis. Of special interest to area readers will be the story of the "Comeback Queens,” the Michigan State women's basketball team who trailed powerhouse Tennessee by 16 points with less than 15 minutes left in the NCAA playoffs. This story of the team that refused to lose is beautifully illustrated by a joyous photo of Glen Lake grad Liz Shimek.

• The Freep staffers have also produced "The Captain,”(Triumph Books, 128 pages), which captures the greatest moments in Steve Yzerman's career. Who could have predicted when Stevie became captain of the Red Wings in 1986 at the age of 21 that he would become the longest-serving captain in NHL history? This beautifully illustrated book is a must-have for die-hard Red Wings fans who once cheered for Yzerman, one of the all-time greats in professional hockey.

• Children's author Diana Bushong's latest project is "Ela and Ana: Elephant and Ant,” (Rosedog Books, 29 pages). The Ishpeming writer delivers a tale about two companions who meet accidentally. Bushong's story entertains, inspires and teaches the values of love, friendship and self-worth.

• What if each person performed a small act of citizenship? Could millions of small actions make a difference in the United States? That's the premise of "For America: Simple Things Each of Us Can Do to Make Our Country Better,” (Reader's Digest Books, 208 pages) by Sacha Zimmerman. This pocket-size guide offers concrete suggestions to improve America, ranging from adopting a pet, to starting a book club, to pursuing health, to being a mentor.

• John Ratzenberger, best known for his TV role of Cliff Claven on ''Cheers,'' has partnered with author Joel Engel on "We've Got It Made in America: A Common Man's Salute to an Uncommon Country,” (Center Street, 258 pages). Ratzenberger has had time to reflect upon America during his travel show, "Made In America,” on the Discovery Channel. In his first book, Ratzenberger explains sectional biases, comments on political morality and talks with truckers who feel like traitors for carrying shoes made overseas. Engel and Ratzenberger have provided an insightful look at American manufacturing — and the lack thereof.

Al Parker, of Traverse City, is an award-winning writer and lifelong bibliophile.