A Champion's Mind

Pete Sampras enjoyed a stint as the world's top-ranked men's tennis player for more than five years. He shied away from the limelight and rarely came close to controversy, on or off the court. So this memoir offered a glimmer of hope for fans to learn more. But steady and straight, Sampras is deliberate in what information he reveals. Narrator Mark Deakins has just the right touch. His tone and emotion never waver. His solid narration keeps the listener interested in anecdotes of matches with assorted rivals. The most interesting parts include discussion of his relationships with his coaches, a section on equipment, and a behind-the-scenes vantage point at Wimbledon. Fans won't get a completely stripped-down revelation of Sampras's life, but will hear a pleasant book. M.B. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine