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SLO-MO Maurice “Slo-Mo” Finsternick grew up in a cave-dwelling cult in Colorado. Unaccustomed to the ways of the world, this 7 foot 8 inch giant is thrown into the fast life of the NBA and becomes national icon. Only this “icon” has never been to McDonald’s, seen a television or movie, and is so childlike and innocent that too many people try to take advantage of him. Can his innocence survive an athlete’s lifestyle? “Slo-Mo” is a refreshing change from my usual reads. Maurice’s innocent ways shine through the dialogue with enough humor to keep you smiling, if not laughing out loud. For example, when the Nike sponsor tries, yet again, to persuade Maurice to sign a contract, the sponsor states, “Talkin’ to you is a complete exercise in futility!” Maurice’s thought is how he appreciates it, even though he has never been to Futility. His childlike thoughts and speech bring an authenticity to the story that leave you wondering if any of today’s big name athletes found themselves in his shoes when they began their careers. |