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The I Index

Losers: Dispatches from the Other Side of the Scoreboard

Maybe someday

32

/100

I Index Overall Rating

Readers

3/100

Critics

61/100

Scholars

N/A

Author:

Mary Pilon, Louisa Thomas

Publisher:

Penguin Books

Date:

August 18, 2020

Twenty-two notable writers—including Bob Sullivan, Abby Ellin, Mike Pesca, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Louisa Hall, and Gay Talese—examine the untold stories of the losers, and in doing so reveal something raw and significant about human fallibility.

What The Reviewers Say

Allen Adams,
The Maine Edge
The reasons behind their shortfalls vary—some are faced with legendary opposition, while others simply deal with a bad day or bad luck—but all of them find ways to reflect the impact of almost. Some of these stories are funny, while others are sad and still others inspire, but all of them together paint a portrait of the truth behind loss. It’s a compelling journey through the competitive landscape, with all manner of sport and athlete represented. Considering the wide range of subjects covered, different readers will find different stories more engaging.
Steven V. Roberts,
The Washington Post
As in any collection, these stories can be very uneven. One about a soccer match between Greece and the Ivory Coast borders on gibberish for all but the most die-hard fans. Another piece, a self-indulgent narrative about an abusive marriage, with a glancing reference to horse racing, could be chopped in half. But many others are insightful and point to a critical fact: The focus on failure starts with an obsession with winning, an obsession that can bleed easily into sickness.
Lucy Heckman,
Library Journal
A fascinating look at another side of sports, emphasizing those who lost games, matches, and tournaments, along with the pressures they faced and the ramifications of their losses. A wonderful choice for sports enthusiasts..

Publishers Weekly
... [a] toughtful anthology.