Brother Iron, Sister Steel

Reviewed by Fearless Book Reviews

One of the perks of the reviewing biz is that one is occasionally sent delightful books that, because of one’s regrettably narrow range of interests, one would never pick up in one’s neighborhood bookstore. One would be all the poorer for having missed Brother Iron, Sister Steel that way. The “Blond Bomber” of weightlifting — also known during the 50s and 60s as Mr. America, Mr. World, and and Mr. Universe — has here set down his total wisdom and life experience in perhaps the most demanding (and surely the most exhibitionist) of all sports. So it’s no surprise that one finds herein some insider jargon, detailed dietary and workout regimens, and lots of pictures of the author at the gym, on old magazine covers, and working out with former training partner Ah-nuld (you know, the guy in the movies). What is surprising is how readable, entertaining, and even philosophical this volume is — and how solidly affirming of the author’s discipline:

I, like everyone else, do not care to be ordinary. . . . I seek to arrange order and logic within my suggestions, both in exercise and menu. I offer you sound facts and establish sturdy landmarks to guide you, affirm you. Mostly, I don’t want this to be a textbook but a view of life as seen by me, a person who did, does and always will lift weights as he eats and breathes.

Huzzah! Honest to God, this guy makes you want to grab your duffel bag and hoist yourself off to the gym even if the closest you’ve ever come to pumping iron is lifting a cream cheese-laden bagel to your lips. Draper has put together a fun, informative, and (I have to say it) brawny book that regularly slips up and tells you more than you would expect to learn:

Good nutrition, like good training, is simple — learn the basics and practice them consistently. A little knowledge and a lot of discipline is the secret. Apply yourself diligently; look ahead, don’t look back and don’t look for shortcuts. There simply aren’t any.

Good nutrition?? Sounds like the secret of life to me!

— P. Miller
Fearless Book Reviews
November, 2000

Brother Iron, Sister Steel sells for $24.95. Dave will be happy to sign the book to you (or to a friend if it's a gift)—you'll have a space to request this on the online order form. Click the order button to order Dave's book.
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