This spellbinding account of a young man's journey into adult-hood will keep you up all night. An autobiography that reads like a novel, Fred Weller takes you along as he unashamedly describes his first humorous and less than satisfying sexual experience. Then ride along with him and a professional hit man on a cross-country odyssey that won't let you put the book down until the finish.

Sometimes frightening, sometimes humorous, and often poignant, Weller tells the story of his struggles as he ventures out into the world to make his way as a man and has you rooting for him while wondering how one twenty year-old can get into so much "stuff."

If you liked Weller's first book, Always Courage, you'll look forward to this one so you can follow the further adventures of this young immigrant. What's next, Fred?

A magnificent display of candor in the author's young adult life! Yes, there's sex; yes, there's language; and yes, there's violence, but it's not gratuitous. It's just honest. It's the story of the author's coming of age in terms of his first sexual experience that is so indelibly imprinted that he gives credit to his "teacher." It's the story of the author's choice of friendships at that age with some very unsavory characters. It's the story of the author's cross-country trip in the grasp of an Irish gangster. It is a sexy, powerful tale that is at once seductive and precarious. There is even some comic relief as he describes his captor's encounter with the United States Border Patrol. The author's life hangs in the balance as he seeks his opportunity to escape--an attempt he knows may only come one time. Gripping, powerful, emotional. I felt I was living it and I just wanted to reach in there and pull him out of that maelstrom.

When I read this book I found it very hard to put down. It caught my attention and it never let go. I felt as though I were in a maelstrom--constantly being buffeted between good, evil, sexual sensations, superficiality and deep, lasting values. It imediately took me back to the time when I was the author's age. I related totally with the author's feelings--his first sexual encounter, his views of right and wrong and his fear for his own safety and survival. It was a most wonderful reading experience for me and I have recommended it hightly to audiences of all ages.

Of course, none of us would ever or has ever bet on a round of golf .... but if you were to say play for something (bragging rights perhaps), this book is the key to victory. Not only does the aothor cover all sorts of golf gambling games (traditional and some quite obscure), but he also offers a detailed analysis and strategies of these games in great anecdotal style. Truly a great read that any serious golfer would enjoy.

Not only is Doug Sanders (The Sandman) an all around great guy, he really knows how to teach someone a sport. I can't wait for his next book on fishing. He better hold off an instructional book on hockey though!

With the publication of Exploring Pedugree horseplayers finally have available information(an a perspective of how to use it) that allows them to intelligently evaluate debut runners in maiden races, as well as young horses stretching out, switching to the turf or trying an off-track for the first time.

"A quantum leap in handicapping consciousness." The Cramer-Olmsted Report

"A major breakthrough in handicapping." Daily Racing Form

Be clear on one point: this book is not for general consumption. Helm is writing for a particular audience, and that is thoroughbred horseracing handicappers and bettors. That said, I cannot recommend this volume highly enough. Witih the explosion in computer technology over the past several years, and the attendant availability of rafts of information, there are very few true "frontiers" left to the race handicapper. Pedigree -- a horse's bloodlines, and all that they suggest about his/her abilities -- are, in Helm's view, the last unexplored territory. He begins with a compelling examination of the current state of the thoroughbred breeding industry. But his truly original contribution to the ever-growing literature of handicapping follows, as he creates a cogent technology for applying pedigree information to the analysis and playing of specific types of races. In Helm's view, the real opportunities at the racetrack arise when one can, based on reliable data, project that a horse will be able to accomplish something that it has not yet attempted. So, a first-time starter may be backed with confidence...if the bloodlines suggest precocity. A sprinter may be backed in a distance race...if the pedigree suggests stamina. And so forth. Races that previously appeared to be unplayable become golden opportunities. Bottom line: this stuff works! Since this initial volume, Helm has published several updates, and puts out annual "Sire Ratings," so that those of us who use his essential technology can work with the most current information.

I have had this book in my collection for the last 10 years. It was the first book I ever purchased on the subject, and after reading and buying 5 additional, I have to say that this is the best book on football handicapping available. It is pre-Internet, so do not expect to find info on on-line books. It covers most aspects well, and it very easy to understand. Well worth your $5.00.

This 1984 ground breaker gives the new sports bettor a fighting chance. Get this one, then track down his current works!

I bought this book at Borders and it is an excellent book that will help you make money at the track. I thought I knew alot about harness racing but this book takes you to the next level. If your going to gamble make money when your doing it. I am so on fire since I started using this book that it is scary, I can't beleive how good I've gotten. Check this out friends.

This book helps you win big at the harrness tracks.It will help you learn how to beat the favorite. If you want to win buy this book

Sam lewin lays out in his book,the way to leave the track educated and with winning tickets to show for your betting on horses. This book should be in every serious horse players library for reference over and over.

The original title of this book says it best: the education of a horseplayer. Simply put, the more educated a handicapper you are, the better your chances at winning at the track. Learn the racing game from one of the legends of the sport: Sam "The Genius" Lewin, and walk away from the track with a fatter wallet too!

Beyer once again hammers home the fact that he's the Master of Masters, the Seer of Seers, and simply the best handicapper (and author) ever to come down the pike. His witticisms, combined with a rare insight and feel into the game, make this a true joy to read and behold. His love for horse racing comes through on every page, and as we take the trip with him into realizing his lifelong dream (which is many of ours as well, I'd venture), his joy is palpable. Since the time of his writing this tome, of course, the game has become even more difficult for pure Speed Handicappers, due to the immense popularity (and success) of his now world-renowned Beyer Speed Figs, but that just adds to the pleasure. A must for any 'capper, and even for those who just enjoy great writing!

Mr. Beyer takes us thru his year of betting the horses. This is the year he finally realizes his goal of becoming a full time player. I first read this book as a teenager and have been hooked on the game ever since. I might not agree with all his methods of betting but the book is a very enjoyable read.

William L. Quirin is a genius! All of his works are completely amazing and infinitely helpful. I would suggest his books for everyone!

P.S.- His daughter, Kristin, is a wonderful person and a beautiful woman!

this book is a must have for all serious handicappers....some of the angles alone have paid off for me big time.....a must have

The best sports wagering help around

The Winning Strategy is a book that is long over due! I love to play the Provincial Sports Lottery, but it is hard to win without inside knowledge. Al J's Sports REALLY tells you everything that you need to know about PSL betting in this book. By far, it is the best $20 that I ever spent! The only thing is, it is so detailed that you really need to read it twice. It's worth your effort!

Ainslie writes with wit, grace, clarity, and conviction. That he is the acknowledged master of handicapping theory in his generation is also significant. His gentle humor and dignity is unmatched in today's handicapping writers. If you are new to horse racing and paramutuel betting, you can do no better than starting with the best.