"About Three Bricks Shy: And the Load Filled Up" by Roy Blount Jr. is an enchanting and nostalgic memoir that chronicles the author's experiences as a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan during the team's 1973 season. Through his humorous and engaging storytelling, Blount immerses readers in the thrilling world of football, capturing the exhilaration and camaraderie of game days, as well as the eccentricities of the players and coaches. However, this book goes beyond the realm of sports, delving into the culture and spirit of Pittsburgh itself.
Blount's writing exudes wit and charm, vividly bringing to life the legendary characters who comprised the iconic Pittsburgh Steelers team of the 1970s. From the renowned "Steel Curtain" defense to the larger-than-life personalities of players such as Terry Bradshaw and Mean Joe Greene, Blount paints a vivid and entertaining portrait of the team that captivated an entire city. His deep affection for the Steelers shines through in the delightful anecdotes and insightful observations he shares, leaving readers with a genuine sense of joy and nostalgia.
What sets this memoir apart is Blount's ability to seamlessly intertwine his personal experiences as a fan with the broader cultural context of Pittsburgh. He explores the city's working-class roots, the decline of the steel industry, and the unwavering support the Steelers received from their devoted followers. By offering these insights, Blount adds depth and substance to the narrative, transforming "About Three Bricks Shy" into more than just a sports book—it becomes a captivating exploration of a community and its passions.
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While the book primarily focuses on the Steelers' 1973 season, it goes beyond mere game recaps and statistics. Blount delves into the human aspects of the sport, delving into the relationships, motivations, and struggles of the players. This ability to reveal the humanity behind the larger-than-life figures of football creates a compelling read that will appeal to both sports enthusiasts and those who are less interested in athletics.
In conclusion, "About Three Bricks Shy: And the Load Filled Up" is a delightful and humorous memoir that transcends football to capture the very essence of a city and its beloved team. Blount's engaging writing style, witty observations, and genuine love for both Pittsburgh and the Steelers make this book a must-read for anyone who appreciates sports, nostalgia, or simply great storytelling.
What are readers saying?
About Three Bricks Shy is a book penned by Roy Blount Jr., which has elicited a variety of responses from readers. The story revolves around the author's experiences as he accompanies the 1973 Pittsburgh Steelers football team throughout their season, providing insights into the players and their relationships.
Some reviewers found About Three Bricks Shy to be an amusing and witty account of the Pittsburgh Steelers' journey. They appreciated Roy Blount Jr.'s clever writing style and his ability to bring the players and their vibrant personalities to life. Readers enjoyed the anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories, immersing themselves in the team's world. The book was lauded for its authentic depiction of the players and their struggles, both on and off the field.
However, other readers were left unimpressed by About Three Bricks Shy, deeming it lackluster and devoid of substance. These critics believed that the book focused excessively on the author's personal experiences instead of providing a comprehensive exploration of the team and its season. Some found Blount's writing style tedious and rambling, making it difficult to remain engaged with the narrative. Additionally, a few readers deemed the book outdated and irrelevant to modern football enthusiasts.
Despite the mixed reviews, most readers agreed that About Three Bricks Shy captures the essence of the 1973 Pittsburgh Steelers and the team's spirit. The book emphasizes the camaraderie among the players and their unwavering determination to succeed, striking a chord with many. Some even attested that individuals who are not avid football fans could still appreciate the book's nostalgic value and the insights it offers into that era.
In conclusion, About Three Bricks Shy by Roy Blount Jr. has elicited a range of responses from readers, with some finding it entertaining and humorous, while others believed it lacked substance and felt outdated. However, the book succeeds in conveying the essence of the 1973 Pittsburgh Steelers and offering a glimpse into the team's journey and the dynamics among the players.
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