Customer Reviews

Passing Off

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Tom LeClair's witty and entertaining novel of basketball's minor and euro leagues is so much more than the candid and humorous tour of garbage ball it starts out as. A hanger-on point guard jumps from the CBA and college recruitment schtick to "pro ball" in Athens, where he unwittingly becomes involved in an eco-terrorist plot. LeClair's real triumph isn't the wonderful depiction of Michael Keever running the point on the floor (and LeClair's depiction of the game is criminally strong) but that same character's ability to weave through the complex human drama surrounding him and go to the hole. Brilliant, satisfying novel.

Don't even think about picking this book up unless you've got a weekend to kill. Mr. LeClaire is a highly skilled writer expert at creating empathy for his main character, excellent dialogue, and gripping suspense. The book follows the exploits of Michael Keever, an American with almost NBA potential who plays for a Greek professional team. Keever occupies the spot on the team reserved for foreign players with Greek ancestry. His only problem: he isn't Greek and a mysterious woman knows his secret. If Keever's ancestry is determined before he collects his bonus, all of his hard work will be for nought. Thus, Keever, is forced to use his basketball-honed deception skills both on and off the court. If you like suspense, you'll love passing off.