Ocho Cinco: What Football and Life Have Thrown My Way

Cincinnati Bengals' Johnson has been one of the most successful and popular receivers in the NFL this decade, and he's not shy about letting anyone know in this brash autobiography. In the first few pages, Johnson—who legally changed his name to Ocho Cinco—says the NFL isn't going to hear what he has to say in his book, and with his pull-no-punches style, he's probably right. Johnson does talk about his tough upbringing in South Florida and living much of his life without his parents, but most of the space is used for opinions on any and all football-related subjects. Among them, Johnson says that his team's owner doesn't know what it takes to win, and relates his admiration of other coaches in the league. But of course, the main topic throughout is Johnson, who boasts that he can't be stopped on the football field, could beat Michael Phelps in a swimming race and would be involved in illegal activities if not for the NFL. Old-school football fans are certain to be turned off by Johnson's self-promotion and braggadocio—in one of the book's chapters he refers to himself as a “marketing genius.” But much like his extensive touchdown celebrations (which he is all too happy to recap in great detail), the receiver insists “it's about having fun, entertaining people.” For those fans who enjoy a good mix of style and substance, Johnson provides it in abundance. (Oct.)