An Incomplete and Inaccurate History of Sport

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Painstakingly faithful to its title, this book is neither complete nor particularly accurate. It claims to be an A-to-Z encyclopedia of all known sports, yet many are omitted, including rugby, volleyball, swimming, and even Basque pelota. While there are multiple chapters on tackle football—“the greatest sport in the world”—and horse racing, other sports like competitive eating and rhythmic gymnastics are left out. The coverage of the included sports is marked by exhaustive inattention to detail, with some chapters straying far from sports entirely, such as one on hunting that focuses on coffee rather than the sport itself. What is this book-like thing? It’s part nostalgic memoir, part humorous commentary, part scholarly tract, and part metafiction, featuring illustrations by the author’s daughters. The publisher calls it $24.95, while critics may label it “insipid.” Yet, with a unique “backwords” section, it challenges traditional formats. This work includes reflections on Wiffle ball, hunting, and even jai alai, alongside still photographs and illustrations, but no moving images—an energy conservation choice. The author reminisces about attending Seattle Pilots games and hopes the book finds its place in the Miscellaneous section, drawing attention. A sub-title is included, designed to attract readers, and is longer than some chapters.