When Pride Still Mattered

by David Maraniss, David Marannis
When Pride Still Mattered cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Biography and Memoir
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 6021
  • Added: 2025-10-29
  • Updated: 2026-01-26
  • ISBN: 9780684872902
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 1999-10-07
  • Reviews: 4

In 'When Pride Still Mattered,' David Maraniss delves into the life and legacy of Vince Lombardi, capturing the essence of the man behind the myth. From his humble beginnings as the son of an Italian immigrant butcher to his rise as a revered football coach, Lombardi's story is one of determination and resilience. His leadership of the Green Bay Packers to five world championships in nine seasons is a testament to his unparalleled coaching skills and his ability to inspire his team to greatness. /n/n Lombardi's impact extends beyond the football field, as he became a symbol of leadership, discipline, and teamwork. His philosophy and methods have left an indelible mark on the sport and on American culture. This groundbreaking biography offers a comprehensive look at the life of a man who transformed football into a metaphor for the American experience.

Reviews
BookBrowse · 2025-10-29
inspiring 4.00

The book highlights the concept of dignity, honor, and sacrifice, showing how imperfect people can achieve greatness.

The reviewer emphasizes the powerful message of the book, which centers around the themes of dignity, honor, and sacrifice. They appreciate how the book demonstrates that even imperfect individuals can rise to greatness. The reviewer finds the book inspiring and thought-provoking, highlighting Lombardi's journey and the lessons that can be learned from his life. They also note that the book is well-written and engaging, making it a valuable addition to any reader's collection.

Quick quotes

    This powerful book reminds us that un-perfect people can rise to great things.

    Dignity, honor and sacrifice above self, is not very popular as a concept these days.

    The book is well-written and engaging, making it a valuable addition to any reader's collection.

Dusk Before the Dawn · 2021-08-07
comprehensive 4.50

The book is a great addition to any Packers collection, offering a detailed and engaging look at Lombardi's life.

The reviewer appreciates the book as a great addition to their Packers collection, highlighting its detailed and engaging portrayal of Vince Lombardi's life. They note that the book provides a comprehensive look at Lombardi's career and personal life, offering insights into his character and legacy. The reviewer finds the book well-researched and well-written, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in football history or biographies. They also mention that the book is a great way to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Lombardi's impact on the sport.

Quick quotes

    It's been a great book to add to my Packers collection.

    David Maraniss has a knack for capturing the essence of his subjects.

    The book provides a comprehensive look at Lombardi's career and personal life.

The New York Times · 1999-10-10
insightful 4.00

The book is filled with detailed vignettes that capture Lombardi's complex personality. It balances sentimentality with a deep exploration of his character.

The reviewer praises Maraniss's ability to capture the essence of Vince Lombardi through vivid and detailed vignettes. They highlight how the book balances sentimental moments with a nuanced portrayal of Lombardi's character, making it a compelling read. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the insightful commentary on Lombardi's life and legacy. They also note that the book provides a comprehensive look at the man behind the myth, offering a more authentic and complex picture of one of football's greatest coaches.

Quick quotes

    Maraniss has a superb eye for detail.

    His book is punctuated with telling vignettes that range from the awkwardly sentimental (Lombardi dancing ...

    The book balances sentimental moments with a nuanced portrayal of Lombardi's character.

BookBrowse · David Halberstam · 1999-09-01
balanced 4.50

The book is an exceptionally well-written and fair-minded portrait of Lombardi, offering a thoughtful exploration of his life and legacy. It is praised for its balanced and insightful approach.

David Halberstam commends the book for its exceptional writing and thoughtful portrayal of Vince Lombardi. He notes that the author presents a fair-minded and balanced perspective, capturing both the heroism and the flaws of Lombardi. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the nuanced understanding of Lombardi's impact on football and society. The book is seen as a significant contribution to sports literature, offering valuable insights into one of the most important figures in sports history.

Quick quotes

    When Pride Still Mattered is an exceptionally well-written, thoughtful, and fair-minded portrait of one of the most important figures in sports history.

    The author presents a balanced and nuanced understanding of Lombardi's impact on football and society.

    The book is a significant contribution to sports literature.

Appears in Lists