“A sparkling sampler of commentaries from celebrated sports journalist Frank Deford . . . offers a kaleidoscope of sports highs and lows.” —Midwest Book Review Frank Deford (1938–2017) was one of the most beloved sports journalists in America. A contributing writer to Sports Illustrated for more than fifty years, and a longtime correspondent on Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel, in his dotage Deford was perhaps best known for his weekly commentaries on NPR’s Morning Edition. Beginning in 1980, Deford recorded sixteen hundred of them, and I’d Know That Voice Anywhere brings together the very best, creating a charming, insightful, and wide-ranging look at athletes and the world of sports. In I’d Know That Voice Anywhere, Deford discusses everything from sex scandals and steroids to why, in a culture dominated by celebrity, sport is the only field on earth where popularity and excellence thrive in tandem. This page-turning compendium covers more than thirty years of sports history while showcasing the vast range of Deford’s interests and opinions, including his thoughts on the NCAA, why gay athletes “play straight,” and why he worried about living in an economy that is so dominated by golfers. A rollicking sampler of one of NPR’s most popular segments, I’d Know That Voice Anywhere is perfect for sports enthusiasts—as well as sports skeptics—and a must-read for any Frank Deford fan. Named a Best Sports Book of 2016 by Buffalo News “Frank Deford definitely is worthy of a spot on the Mt. Rushmore of sportswriters . . . As always, Deford’s writing is glorious, hitting all the notes from funny to emotional to profound . . . Once again, his words make sports come alive.” —Chicago Tribune

© 2016 Atlantic Monthly Press (Ebook): 9780802190352

Release date

Ebook: 3 May 2016