In the Blink of an Eye

February 15, 2011

The 2001 Daytona 500 race is remembered for NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt's fatal crash. The winner, Michael Waltrip, had not won in 462 attempts and should have been ecstatic. But Earnhardt had been Waltrip's employer, close friend, and mentor. Waltrip's devastation was so intense that he avoided talking about that fateful day for years. Now he brings to light those suppressed issues and shines a spotlight on the Dale Earnhardt he knew and revered. Waltrip's narrative spans a lifetime's involvement with auto racing as a fan, driver, car owner, and younger sibling to one of NASCAR's most successful drivers, Darrell Waltrip. Waltrip reveals much about the motivations and values that fueled and sustained his life and career, offering a number of life lessons he learned from mentors, both friends and family. The subtext of the book, though, is Earnhardt and his significant impact on Waltrip's career and life. VERDICT There are many stories here that Earnhardt fans will appreciate and that will no doubt add to Earnhardt's legacy. Written in the breezy, conversational style expected from Waltrip, this is an entertaining and rewarding read. Solidly recommended for popular racing collections.--David Van de Streek, Penn State Univ. Libs., York

Copyright 2011 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from March 1, 2011
February 18, 2001, is the day that changed everything, at least for auto-racing fans. The race was the Daytona 500, crown jewel of the NASCAR season. It was the day Michael Waltrip won his first race as a member of the Dale Earnhardt team. It was Waltrips first NASCAR win ever, after 462 starts without a checkered flag. It should have been a day of great celebration for Waltrip, but it wasnt. Eleven seconds before he crossed the finish for his first win, Dale Sr., Waltrips mentor and the face of NASCAR, hit the wall and died from the injuries sustained. Triumph turned to tragedy in the blink of an eye. Ten years later, Waltrip explores that painful day and its effects on his life and on the sport. This is a genuinely heartfelt memoir that is equal parts autobiography and tribute to Earnhardt. Waltrip recounts his racing career, his relationship with brother Darrell, a three-time NASCAR champion, and the career boost he got from the confidence shown in him by Earnhardt. Though sadness and loss are a big part of Waltrips story, he balances them with humor and joy. A really wonderful read for NASCAR fans.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2011, American Library Association.)