From School Library Journal
Gr 8 Up-This is not one of those conventional histories that highlights outstanding performances and celebrates the "Olympic spirit." Currie deals instead, almost exclusively, with the more controversial aspects of the Games. While his approach might strike some readers as being overly negative, even cynical, he presents a sophisticated, in-depth look at such topics as amateurism, politics, commercialization, and drug use in the Olympics. He makes it clear that the Games have been plagued by controversy from their very beginning and that political and financial considerations have always played a role. The chapter on commercialization is among the best in the book. It details the extent to which corporate sponsorship has come to dominate the Olympics. Well written, well argued, and extremely well documented, this title should appeal to those students looking for a forthright, rigorous analysis of issues that are often skirted in other books for this audience.-Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT
Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
