Countdown to Lockdown: A Hardcore Journal

While keeping true to his unique writing style, which melds stream-of-consciousness prose with constant pop culture, literary (including many nods to his own unsuccessful novel) and current events references, wrestler Foley takes more of a diary approach than in his past nonfiction books. The central story is his steel-cage match with fellow wrestler Sting—from the match's causes to Foley's training and ending with a play-by-play of the action in the ring. For wrestling fans and curious onlookers, Foley's special talent has always been that as a successful wrestler he can give the dirty little secrets behind pro wrestling while he remains completely excited about the sport. But in terms of wrestling excitement in this book, Foley comes up short as he spends most of his time trying to convince himself he is as keyed up for the match as he is about meeting singer-songwriter Tori Amos. In fact, when Foley discusses out of the ring issues like, in the wake of wrestler Chris Benoit's murder-suicide or substance abuse problem in his business, he really gives readers substance. Even more thought provoking and touching are Foley's asides about building schools and sponsoring children in Sierra Leone through the Child Fund International or his support of RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network). (Oct.)