Willie Mays

By: James S. Hirsch

Narrated by: Adam Grupper

The New York Times bestselling, authorized, “enormously entertaining and wide-ranging” (The Seattle Times) biography of the late, great Willie Mays.

Willie Mays (1931–2024) was arguably the greatest player in baseball history, revered for the passion he brought to the game. He began as a teenager in the Negro Leagues, became a cult hero in New York, and was the headliner in Major League Baseball’s bold expansion to California. He was a blend of power, speed, and stylistic bravado that enraptured fans for more than two decades. Author James Hirsch reveals the man behind the player.

Mays was a transcendent figure who received standing ovations in enemy stadiums and who, during the turbulent civil rights era, urged understanding and reconciliation. More than his records, his legacy is defined by the pure joy that he brought to fans and the loving memories that have been passed to future generations so they might know the magic and beauty of the game. With meticulous research and drawing on interviews with Mays himself as well as with close friends, family, and teammates, Hirsch presents a brilliant portrait of one of America’s most significant cultural icons.

if you are a giants fan a must read

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

only if they like baseball

Who was your favorite character and why?

Willie

Which scene was your favorite?

Polo grounds

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

yes

Any additional comments?

I grew up in the bay area so I am biased

even if you don’t like baseball...

... but if you do, this chock full of amazing tidbits, as well as a complete story of of one of the US great athletes. They sugar coat very little, and we get the inside baseball (pun intended) on stories you know.

Fascinating

Definitely worth the time to listen to the whole thing! He had his ups and downs, but he was a great man.

WILLIE MAYS HITS A GRAND SLAM AND MAKES THE CATCH OF A LIFETIME!

I loved the full story on "Sey-Hey" Willie Mays, from his birth to parents, from pets, from his stats and historic play, and triumphs ---Mr. Mays did not disappoint! Loved the book, the career, the living legend, and the Parent!

GRADE: A+

Great book

Loved every second of the story of my all time favorite. Made me love Willie more