Book Review – How Soccer Explains the World
Emmanuel Ayim and Darlene A. Kluka, United States |
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Foer, F. (2004). How Soccer Explains the World.
New York, NY: HarperCollins. ISBN: 0-06-621234-0. $24.95 USD 261 pages.
Foer provides an in-depth look at how soccer transcends
colour barriers,
cultural allegiances, and even religious affiliations to explain the world.
The
author begins with soccer examining the gangs of Serbia. Foer then explores
the
Rangers vs Celtics rivalry in Scotland. Rangers supporters are Protestants
who adamantly dislike Catholic Celtics supporters. The author continues
to
examine the scarcity of Jewish sports legends. Sandy Koufax and Mark Spitz
are
mentioned, but generally speaking, the author claims that true Jewish
sport
legends arrive at a rate of one every decade. Furthermore, Foer chronicles
the
rise of hooliganism in English soccer, particularly the hooligans of Chelsea
Football Club in West London. Across the Athlantic, Foer explains the
passion
and tradition of Brazilian soccer. Romario, the golden boy of the 1994
World
Cup in USA is highlighted along with Rio's Club Vasco da Gama. In the
Middle
East, particularly in Iran, women are forbidden to attend soccer matches.
Ironically, some women disguise their attire, dressing as men, to attend
and
enjoy the game. Under strict Islamic law, these women risk severe punishment
if
caught. Finally, Foer explains the inception and proliferation of youth
soccer in America. He uses his own upbringing and participation to exhibit
youth
soccer in America. Foer's book is a must for anyone who has an international
sportive outlook. One does not have to be a pure soccer enthusiast to
appreciate the world explained by soccer that Foer proclaims.
Emmanuel Ayim and Darlene A. Kluka
Grambling State University of Louisiana, USA

http://www.icsspe.org/portal/bulletin-may2005.htm
Book Review – How Soccer Explains the World
Emmanuel Ayim and Darlene A. Kluka, United States
|