Michella M. Marino’s meticulous research on the history of roller derby, resulted in the definitive history of this fast paced form of sports entertainment. The author eloquently describes the evolution of the sport (and roller skating), being trademarked by Leo Seltzer in the 1930’s. “Roller Derby” outlines how the entertainment genre avoided a early demise, and why jersey number one has been universally retired. Marino also tackles urban legends, how the media covered roller derby, and the various marketing strategies employed to grow a product into a successful television series and selling out New York’s famed Madison Square Garden.
The author writes extensively on how Leo’s son Jerry took the reigns, and led the sport into the 70s, competing with the rival Roller Games. “Roller Derby” shows how the sports entertainment spectacle was an early co-ed activity that grew to include African American athletes during racial segregation. Marino also discusses gender politics, roller derby’s king and queen competitions, the public’s speculation that the games or outcomes were predetermined, and the what the future may hold for roller derby. I also enjoyed P. J. Morgan’s marvelous narration.
By: Michella M. Marino
Narrated by: P. J. Morgan
Length: 7 hrs and 46 mins
Release date: 04-12-22
The audiobooks is available from Audible
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