BODE

A bracing memoir from the world champion skier and straight shooter.

With his impressive number of world cup wins, unique skiing style and colorful origins, Miller has made a fine subject for many a sports writer looking for a good story. But they get him all wrong, every time, Miller says. True enough, he was raised in a comfortable relationship with the great outdoors. His parents were hippies who made an informed decision to live off the grid and free their children from the strictures of school. He emphasizes that, contrary to what’s been reported, they were not backwoods hicks. In fact, as the grandson of an Ivy Leaguer who founded the Tamarack Tennis Camp in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Miller comes from sports royalty, and his success on the slopes is hardly shocking. He gives a fast-paced, entertaining account of growing up with a family that seemed to be entirely composed of daredevils and free-thinkers. Moving on to recap his career, he recounts how he started out spending his days on the slopes while his peers were in the classroom, eventually making his way to a boarding school with a killer ski team. He discusses his philosophy—“Have fun”—and his techniques, such as using Power Bars to wedge his legs forward in his ski boots. His equipment, the competitors, the endorsements, the spectacular flame-outs—the author tells all in a style that has made him so fun to watch on the slopes.

For skiers and sports fans, a good look at the thoughts and methods of a winner.