No much for sports books, I was eager to read this because I had always admired Bill Belichick and his style of leadership. (I'm revisiting that assessment in light of the video controversy!). I also had heard wonderful reviews of David Halberstam. I liked the book and would recommend it (a quick read), but I can't say I loved it or that it changed my life or way of thinking. Other than some biographical facts which were interesting, I don't think I learned a great deal from this book. . ( )

Halberstam is a great writer; not in the vein of corporate assembly line or factory style output; but in the true sense of storytelling and conveyor of information in working man terms. He's no editor, his sentences seem to run on for lines upon lines, and his thoughts are often interjected with assumed thoughts and anecdotes. Having said that, this book was wonderful! It's a true work, from a man that excels at his craft- and it's obvious at his passion for writing.

The Belichick side of this book is brilliant as well. At times, the storylines get bogged down by the sheer amount of names and dates and locations, but that is to be expected in an historical account of one mans career path.

The insight into Bill Belichick is astounding and revealing. He's a man of strong character and foundations, and it shows in his successes and failures.

I'm a big fan of the dealings with Belichick's personality and life views. As big a football fan as I am, I can find my football IQ fix in other areas. But for this book, and Halberstam delivered, I was more tuned in to the areas of Belichick's modus operandi, the ways in which he approached his trade, and the thoughts on networking and personnel management. I think it's important to know his off field details to be able to truly understand his on field persona and manner.

Great book, a page turner for sure. I highly recommend this read, for any interested football fan who appreciates integrity, sportsmanship, morals, and a true essence of team. ( )

Good read, though a bit thin on the football part. The book talks about his family and his upbringing to explain his personality. This information is worked into the tale. It is handled well, though is of marginal interest to me. I am interested in him as the coach of the Patriots, not what makes him tick.

The part of the tale that deals with his actual football jobs is very superficial. I think that is due to Halberstam's lack of football interest/knowledge but also because Belichick still operates in the football world and can't be seen to be dishing and revealing too much.

I wanted to know more from the coaches' perspective about the 2001 SB run, about the QB controversy with Bledsoe and Brady, about how the team was reportedly 'less than he thought' when he became HC. Very little of these issues were even discussed, let alone in any depth.

Perhaps when he retires, there will be a more in depth book. ( )

Loved that Halberstam didn't try to glam this up, but presented the info almost as dryly as Belichick would have himself. I wish there was more discussion of building the team, the role of other coaches, and whatever, but that's minor. An excellent read. ( )