cover image Von Erich Family Album

Von Erich Family Album

Fritz Von Erich, Kirk Dooley. Taylor Publishing Company (TX), $13.95 (128pp) ISBN 978-0-87833-593-0

Although superficial, this saga of a close-knit Texas family that has had more than its share of tragedyone son dead in a childhood accident, another from a sports injury and a third by suicidehas a certain appeal. Dooley (Hidden Dallas) traces the rise of Jack Adkisson, his struggle to carve out a career in sports and his success as professional wrestler Fritz Von Erich, originator of a special grip called the Iron Claw. Also chronicled are the sports apprenticeships of Von Erich's sons Chris, Kevin and Kerry and their decision to join their father in wrestling. The photos are strictly the fare of family albums, and as such are of no interest outside the Von Erich clan. (January 31)