The Hero's Body

Giraldi has written a powerful memoir that examines the masculine in great detail. Born in the small, blue-collar town of Manville, NJ, to a family of carpenters, gym rats (except his father), and motorcycle fanatics, Giraldi dedicates the first half of the book to his youth and brief foray into bodybuilding, presenting a fascinating account of competitive bodybuilding. Later chapters offer a close examination of how and why the men in his family loved motorcycles—and incredible speed. The author recounts his father's death in a horrific motorcycle accident at age 47. Most admirable is Giraldi's love of literature that was not shared by anyone else in his family or circle of friends. Throughout this work he continuously astonishes with his highly intelligent verse, apt quotations from literary giants, and creative wording of concepts that are often difficult to convey.