Right on the Edge of Crazy

Miami Herald staff writer Wilson ( Maximum Morphonius ), an avid skier, followed the U.S. downhill ski team for almost two years, leading up to the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France. Carefully distinguishing between downhill and slalom races (the former is far more dangerous and so more exciting), he describes the conflict between the team's near fanatical commitment to the sport and its unremarkable position in international competition. For example, in the Olympics A. J. Kitt, the top U.S. downhill racer, finished ninth. As the coaches point out, the American media and public care only about victories. Wilson's account is likely to appeal to those interested in skiing at its highest levels, but general readers may be less enthusiastic. Author tour. (Feb.)