In 'Paper Lion', George Plimpton, an aspiring sports journalist, takes a daring plunge into the world of professional football by joining the Detroit Lions during training camp. As he dons the helmet and pads, Plimpton offers a unique perspective, blending humor and insight into the lives of both athletes and the game itself. His firsthand experiences reveal the physical and mental challenges players face, making readers question the glamor often associated with sports. This fascinating exploration of an outsider stepping into a fierce arena captures the spirit of both the game and the determination needed to succeed. Will Plimpton’s adventure redefine his understanding of courage and teamwork?
By George Plimpton
Published: 2016
""The only way to gain a true understanding of something is to dive into it headfirst, to experience it from within and not just observe it from afar.""
The book that made a legend--and capture's America's sport in detail that's never been matched, now featuring a foreword by Nicholas Dawidoff a and never-before-seen content from the Plimpton Archives. George Plimpton was perhaps best known for PAPER LION, the book that set the bar for participatory sports journalism. With his characteristic wit, Plimpton recounts his experiences in talking his way into training camp with the Detroit Lions, practicing with the team, and taking snaps behind center. His breezy style captures the pressures and tensions rookies confront, the hijinks that pervade when sixty high-strung guys live together in close quarters, and a host of football rites and rituals. One of the funniest and most insightful books ever written on football, PAPER LION is a classic look at the gridiron game and a book The Wall Street Journal calls "a continuous feast...The best book ever about football--or anything!"
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“"The only way to gain a true understanding of something is to dive into it headfirst, to experience it from within and not just observe it from afar."”
Paper Lion
By George Plimpton
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
George Plimpton (1927-2003) was an American author, journalist, and literary editor, renowned for his innovative approach to participatory journalism and his focus on the world of sports. He is best known for his notable works such as 'Paper Lion,' where he chronicled his experiences training with the Detroit Lions football team, and 'Out of My League,' which details his time with the New York Yankees. Plimpton's writing style is characterized by its humor, vivid descriptions, and an engaging narrative that often blurs the lines between reality and fiction. As the co-founder of The Paris Review, he also played a significant role in the literary community, championing the works of numerous prominent writers.
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