While [Marzorati] rallies late and fills the latter third with incisive insights about issues of race and gender and about Williams’s life in the public eye, his nonlinear writing often diffuses much of what originally made Williams so compelling.

Mr. Marzorati gives us a book that is so reverential that it teeters on the edge of hagiography.

With just enough backstory and supportive interviews, he effectively incorporates relevant history of Williams’ previous Grand Slam tournaments while also examining her roles in challenging cultural norms and fighting for gender equality. Marzorati has an easy-to-read style and reveals the complexity of Williams’ life, not just as an athlete, but also as a celebrity. Williams may be nearing the end of her professional tennis career, but there’s no doubt she will continue to be a force for change and inspiration..

... thoughtful.

While it is helpful to get an outside perspective, it is obvious that Williams’s voice is missing from the book, especially to counter Marzorati’s often critical tone. This is particularly apparent in discussions her off-the-court pursuits or her use of social media. Tennis fans, especially, will be interested in the author’s conversations with different professionals and coaches about the intricate details of Williams’s game. The level of this analysis is quite impressive; the depth of detail may be too much for a casual observer of the sport.

... the author takes advantage of his detached position to meditate, objectively but not without compassion, on Williams as not just a tennis player, but a cultural figure and human being as well.

... serviceable.