Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times

Draft dodger, rebel, poet and Third World supporter, boxing champ Muhammad Ali symbolizes different things to different people. To many an icon of black pride and empowerment, the Kentucky-born heavyweight is viewed by others as a separatist who embraced the divisive Black Muslim religion, by still others as the victim of a brutalizing sport. Diverse opinions are represented in this hefty, generally admiring compendium that seems less like an authorized biography (though it is) than a forum where rivals, trainers, friends, enemies, ex-wives, sportswriters and associates air their views. The roster of interviewees includes Archie Moore, Howard Cosell, Floyd Patterson, A. J. Liebling, Betty Shabazz (Malcolm X's widow), Ted Kennedy, Dick Gregory, Arthur Ashe and dozens of others. A feast for fans, this composite portrait bristles with insights, jabs and tributes. Hauser's books include The Black Lights . Photos. (June)