Description: The fascinating variety of experiences at the intersection of sports and religion--and the ramifications of such on a national citizenry defined, as Baker writes, "by the team they cheer on Saturday and the church they attend on Sunday."
Brief description: WILLIAM J. BAKER is a professor emeritus of history at the University of Maine. His books include Playing with God: Religion and Modern Sport, If Christ Came to the Olympics, Jesse Owens: An American Life, and Sports in the Western World.
Review Quotes: This is a short and lively look at the connections between the seemingly unconnected worlds of sports and religion. However, Baker argues in this easily accessible and deeply rewarding text that American sports and American religion intersect with 'spiritual fervor.' . . . In short, Baker's newest exploration of religion, play, and sport is an excellent work by one of the best scholars of the field.--A. R. McKee "Choice"