Best of The Herd

Jeff Pearlman's 'Showtime' is a gripping narrative that explores the Los Angeles Lakers' iconic era of the 1980s, marked by their fast-paced basketball style and flamboyant lifestyle. Drawing from nearly 300 interviews, Pearlman delves into the team's remarkable success and the personal lives of its stars, including Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The book captures the essence of a decade defined by sports, celebrity, and excess.

The Gunslinger is a dark-fantasy novel that blends elements of Western fiction, science fiction, and horror. It tells the story of Roland Deschain, the last gunslinger, who is on a quest to catch the man in black, a sorcerous figure. The novel is set in a world similar to the Old West but in an alternate timeframe or parallel universe. Roland's journey involves encounters with various characters, including a boy named Jake, and flashbacks that reveal his past and his brutal training as a gunslinger. The story is inspired by Robert Browning's poem 'Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came' and other influences such as Milton's 'Paradise Lost' and the Western films of Sergio Leone.

Sweetness: The Enigmatic Life of Walter Payton is a moving and insightful biography of the legendary Chicago Bears running back. The book explores Payton's remarkable career, his unwavering commitment to excellence, and his quiet humility. It delves into his personal life, his relationships with family and friends, and his dedication to charitable causes. The book also examines Payton's impact on the game of football and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest running backs of all time. It's a must-read for football fans and anyone interested in the lives of inspiring athletes.