Playing for Pizza
Is there any genre John Grisham can’t write? It would be enough to have written only the spellbinding legal thrillers that made him famous—from The Firm to The King of Torts. But in recent years, he succeeded with novels like A Painted House and Bleachers, which showed readers he could write just as well outside the courtroom. And then when he did return to court, as he did with the true-crime investigation, An Innocent Man, he showed us he was just as comfortable writing nonfiction. And now, with Playing for Pizza, he shows us that whatever he writes displays his irresistible storytelling powers.
After three interceptions in 11 minutes that cost his Cleveland Browns football team the playoffs, third-string quarterback Rick Dockery’s football career is over. Or is it? There is one team who still wants him. The only catch is the team is the Parma Panthers from Parma, Italy. Rick isn’t too keen on the idea but with nowhere else to go he takes the offer and is introduced into a whole different world full of strange rules, great food and exotic women.
After reading this engaging novel full of the essence of Italian charm, we dare you not to whip out your credit card and book the next flight to Italy. It’s that good!
Hardcover: 272 pages
Publisher: Doubleday & Co. Inc. ( September 24, 2007 )
Item #: 46-9020
ISBN: 9780385525008
Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.25 x 0.65 inches
Product Weight: 12.0 ounces
Come On Folks - Lighten Up!
October 03, 2009
I've read a number of negative reviews on this book - all I can say is "Lighten Up!" Grisham did when he wrote this delightful little story! In the above description - the reader is challenged to resist getting his or her "credit card and [booking] ... the next flight to Italy." I agree. Grisham not only captures the flavor of old Italy - his style of writing transports the reader to a place where they can almost smell the aromas and taste the adventure! And - all the while he weaves a marvelous story of a "washed up" football player who is desperately trying to find himself and a little happiness. Yes, I loved the book. Yes, it's not your typical Grisham. And that's OKAY!
Reviewer: Bill
Disappointed!
September 25, 2009
John Grisham should stick to the law, period!...I was very disappointed...if I'd wanted an Italian guide on food & travel I could've gone to my travel agent, or better yet, the library....as far as the play-by-plays of football?......only if you're a lover of the game (which I'm not; don't understand it), would you enjoy this book!...I thought football was only going to be a backdrop for the main story/hero...again, very disappointed...
Reviewer: Ronnie
What fun!
April 19, 2009
No, it isn't typical Grisham but it's a fun and quick read. I was laughing aloud through every page. I gave it to my significant other and he couldn't put it down either, roaring at the antics. We're football fans and follow those who do go to Europe when their careers end here. I could see everything in this book happening for real and it made it all the more enjoyable. Take this one w/you on vacation or to any appointment where you know you'll be waiting for someone. You'll be in a better mood and have a big smile on your face!
Reviewer: Redrain
It was ok
February 20, 2009
I didn't think this was one of his best books. I enjoy reading John Grisham and although I did like the book, it was just ok. It was a fast read.
Reviewer: Linda P
Don't waste your time
December 31, 2008
Between the play by play football commentary and the Italian history lesson, I couldnt get into this book. It feels like he took a football play book and a Italian travel guide, shuffled the pages together, threw in a weak fish out of water plot and called it a novel. Not only did this book completely bore me, it felt like the main character was as bored and uninterested as I was. If you love football, then maybe this book is for you. Otherwise, I would recommend skipping this one.
Reviewer: Toya C
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