In 2014, the remarkable michael jordan biography by Roland Lazenby was published in France. Four years later, it was that of Kobe Bryant, for which we interviewed the author. This year, the American journalist returns with a new book, on another legend of the modern era of the NBA: Magic Johnson.
The work was released on November 22, still by Talent Éditions. He’s imposing, as the former Lakers point guard’s life and career are.
Very extensive chapters on the youth of Magic
Divided into two parts, the first entitled “Lansing”, the birthplace of Magic Johnson in Michigan, the second “Hollywood” for his years in Los Angeles, the book looks at length at the childhood of the five-time NBA champion. A strong point since Magic’s sporting career is relatively well-known and often told.
Minus his younger years, therefore, where he was particularly confronted with racism. We learn in very detailed chapters how the personality of young Earvin managed to influence the behavior of many people, from students to teachers to the principal, at Everett High School in the 1970s. Especially to calm racial tensions between students.
We obviously follow the technical prowess of the playmaker, who works miracles wherever he goes on the floor, even if his training years are not always crowned with success on a collective level. Then come three chapters on his successful university career and the beginning of his rivalry with Larry Bird.
California Love
The second part is obviously essentially devoted to “Showtime” with the Lakers: to his immense Game 6 in the 1980 Finals, to the numerous titles or even his relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. But also to his numerous conquests in Los Angeles, which will affect his relationship and explain his HIV, which will push him to retire in 1991. The behind the scenes of this episode are well told, between the announcement of his illness and the management of this unfortunate news from the Lakers.
There are obviously a thousand things to tell in such a book and in the face of such a full life. We can also highlight a chapter worthy of a thriller, with a corpse in the trunk of a Rolls Royce abandoned in a parking lot and the negotiations between Jerry Buss and Jack Kent Cooke to buy the Lakers franchise.
An essential for fans of Magic Johnson, but also for NBA fans, which will logically take its place next to the biographies of Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.
The Life of Earvin “Magic” Johnson
Author : Roland Lazenby
Editor : Talent Éditions
ISBN : 9782378153618
28.90 euros
848 pages
