Rafa Paperback – Illustrated, May 22, 2012

I am enjoying the Rafa memoir. Initially, I wondered how a memoir could be written so early in this young man's life, and not be "fluff" for over 270 pages. I quickly learned that not only is there no fluff, it sucked me in as a reader.The format is almost like "Forrest Gump" in print. It starts with Rafa prepping for his 2008 Wimbledon match against Roger Federer, the slam he's always wanted to win. Rafa writes somewhat of a diary/journal entry of his thought as he gets ready for the match. And as he goes through these motions, he has "flashbacks" of times earlier in life that has gotten him to where he's at: lessons he's learned, the family's who's been a solid foundation of support, and the human side of of who Rafa's become of these things. The flashbacks come back to the present match and integrates itself whole.Once a short entry of that match is read, John Carlin interjects with words and mini vignettes/interviews from family and friends who fill the "gaps" of the thought processes of how Rafa thinks and what he's become.The story then heads back to that Wimbledon match and Rafa writes more. The cycle continues.I bought this book right as I was about to go to sleep and ended up reading nearly 20% of the book and took it to work to read during my lunch. I could not put it down, but had to because the eyes were drooping. At this rate, the book will not make it to the weekend. Rafa draws me in and paints a story of an every day man who happens to do something extraordinary professionally. Nadal speaks with desires of a simple life and yet, with a profound sense of thought of in how to approach it. Tennis is the backddrop of this story, but many life lessons are learned as well as we watch someone grow into their own.UPDATE 9/9/11:I finished the book and it was quite satisfying. The memoir covers the first 25 years of Rafa's life, but there was much that's happened within that time: mentally, physically, and emotionally. Rafa and Carlin explain the moments in time and their impact upon who Rafa is today and will become.Is the book premature in its writing? Yes and no. I thought that the book should have been done after his career was over so we get the "full scope." However, by writing the book now while still actively competing, Rafa lets the readers understand who and what he is now. I have been following Rafa throughout this 2011 U.S. Open and the memoir has shed a different perspective on how I view Rafa's mentality on court, for the press, and how he carries himself. In short, it's an even more intriguing 'front row ticket' into someone's life.

I expected this book to be somewhat of a biography, but it isn't and it is............"Rafa" is the name of the 'Warrior' who we see on the court. "Rafael" is the man behind thewarrior on the court as it were....I have been an avid fan of tennis and of Rafael Nadal for the entire open season and since he arrived in the ATP.Watching Rafael play a match can be intense, what this book does is explain the intensity we see on the court.The most wonderful thing about this book, is that Rafa allows you into his mind.....his thought processes, his fears, his triumphs, as well as his relationship whith his coach (Uncle Tony) and his family.The Warrior is the person that has been trained and continually trains himself to give 100% at all times on the court. The Man is the 24 yr old who has become the Warrior; but continues to be sensitive, appreciative, respectful and above all else, a good person.I am pleased that I didn't know the content of the book before hand. As I read, I became more appreciative and more of a fan of Rafael Nadal's than I had been before.As he describes his various matches; especially his first slam title on thru to his 8th slam title (and I have seen each of the matches that he talks about), I began to relive each match, point by point along with him. By his own words, his best year was 2010; he held all 4 grand slam titles.To be a part his physical, mental and emotionaL well being throughout these matches, was an amazing experience both for me, the fan and me, the reader.If you are a fan of the game, wheather a fan of Rafael Nadal or not; this book is an exceptional read.You'll know him as well as his closest friends do, by the time you finish reading this book. Enjoy !!!!!!

Very interesting life story of a tennis player. I’ve read several tennis player biographies and this one is unique and a good read.

When Jimmy Connors stopped playing tennis, I quit watching. When Rafa beat Federer in Miami at age 18, I started watching again. Many commentators say Rafa plays with the same fighting spirit as Jimmy. I’ve always wondered where the fight comes from, how he keeps on winning and what motivates him. There are obvious answers given in articles and by broadcasters during a match or interview. Reading this book. . .(finally!) I understand a lot more.It’s a fun read, learning little details about what he was thinking during specific matches I’ve watched more than once. Mostly, it is as inspiring and motivating as Rafa himself when he’s playing every ball as if it were championship point. It’s the kind of book that makes plain what is required of a Champion besides talent. It is well written and makes me want to go do something. At 80. After this read, I believe it’s possible to still achieve something with a natural God-given talent I’ve been told about and recognized in myself most of my life. Will I do it? If I do, Rafa Nadal will be mentioned in the credits.