Sports have a unique way of bringing us together, transcending boundaries and creating shared experiences. Whether watching the Olympics or cheering for a local team, sports stories resonate with audiences worldwide.
For those eager to delve deeper into the world of sports, here are some book recommendations that explore the triumphs and challenges faced by athletes and teams.
Brian Coe, Senior Vice President, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins
Book: “Cobra: A Life of Baseball and Brotherhood”
Authors: Dave Parker and Dave Jordan
Brian Coe, a seasoned hockey professional, suggests a compelling read for baseball enthusiasts. “Cobra: A Life of Baseball and Brotherhood” is a memoir by Dave Parker and Dave Jordan, highlighting Parker’s journey from a Cincinnati multi-sport athlete to a celebrated Pittsburgh Pirates player. The book delves into his achievements, including MVP awards and World Series victories, while also exposing the personal challenges he faced, including his involvement in the Pittsburgh drug trials.
Despite Parkinson’s disease claiming Parker’s life in June 2025, “Cobra” remains a candid reflection of his illustrious career and complex personality.
Patrick Abdalla, English teacher, Scranton
Book: “Baseball’s Great Experiment: Jackie Robinson and his Legacy”
Author: Jules Tygiel
Amidst a room filled with baseball memorabilia, Patrick Abdalla finds it challenging to select a single book to recommend. Ultimately, he chooses Jules Tygiel’s “Baseball’s Great Experiment,” which chronicles the integration of baseball and explores stories beyond Jackie Robinson, such as Larry Doby breaking the American League color barrier.
The book provides insights into the players who integrated various teams, including those from Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, and serves as a testament to the sport’s role in the civil rights movement.
Borys Krawczeniuk, WVIA News Reporter
Book: “The Bad Guys Won: A Season of Brawling, Boozing, Bimbo Chasing, and Championship Baseball”
Author: Jeff Pearlman
Borys Krawczeniuk, a devoted New York Mets fan, shares his enthusiasm for Jeff Pearlman’s “The Bad Guys Won.” The book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the 1986 Mets team, known for their rowdy behavior and championship victory. Pearlman’s account provides a glimpse into a time when athletes were less constrained by the digital age, capturing the essence of a team that was both loved and loathed.
Sarah Scinto, WVIA Morning Edition Host and Reporter
Book: “Why We Swim”
Author: Bonnie Tsui
Sarah Scinto breaks the baseball trend with her recommendation of Bonnie Tsui’s “Why We Swim.” This book explores humanity’s connection to water and swimming, featuring interviews with Olympic athletes, scientists, and swim enthusiasts. Tsui examines the allure of swimming, a skill not instinctive to humans, and highlights its universal appeal.
Whether you’re an Olympic fan or simply enjoy a swim, this book is sure to resonate with anyone who loves the water.
That’s all for this edition of Bookmarks. Join us again on March 21. March is Women’s History month, so we’ll once again put the spotlight on women authors.
Want to talk about a book you love? Email sarahscinto@wvia.org with Bookmarks in the subject line.
