Book Review: 30 Years of WrestleMania
December 20, 2014
By: Darragh O’Connor of Wrestleview.com
There are few things as cool as a good wrestling book; there are even less as cool as a book that has the WWE stamp of approval. Thankfully, the latest tome from bestselling author Brian Shields is that very book. “30 Years of WrestleMania” is one for the amateur wrestling historian in us all.
The focus of this work is everything WrestleMania; the work tracks everything from the first gamble to the 30th anniversary of the behemoth spectacle. There is something here for everyone from the die-hard, passionate fans to the young John Cena fans. I love this book; it is a must for anyone that likes wrestling in any way and is a true gift from Shields and the WWE.
Much like the ‘WWE Encyclopedia’, Brian explained that “this book is accessible for fans of all ages and all kinds of fans; from fans that know the inner workings of the business to the fans that just watch Raw ever week. It has something for every WWE fan and has a multi-generational appeal. Anyone can pick it up and be informed and entertained.”
In this over 220 page work, Brian explained that the reader can feels as if the reader can travel through time using the WrestleMania event:
“Every WrestleMania is chronically presented in the signature stunning DK style. The excitement and experience of WrestleMania is splashed on every page. You’ll be able to see its growth from the one time gamble to what it has become today.”
The hardcover book gives WWE fans the greatest in-depth look at how the annual event became what it is today. There are special sections that include special tribute to The Undertaker’s WrestleMania Streak, Shawn Michaels’ body of work and the Hall of Fame. Plus, there is a very touching foreword for the book by Mr. WrestleMania himself, Shawn Michaels.
In the words of the author, “The 30 Years of WrestleMania from WWE and DK Publishing is a behind the scenes look at what has become the greatest live event in all of entertainment. The books offers behind the scenes photos and interviews with Superstars, Divas, Legends and Hall of Famers. It’s a look at that has never been done before.”
The book is presents each WrestleMania chronically in a beautiful full colour spread. This spread includes trivia, match cards, great pictures from the event and the results.
This big undertaking follows the landmark work ‘The WWE Encyclopaedia Updated and Expanded Edition’ co-authored by Kevin Sullivan from a few years ago. If you enjoyed that book than I urge you to pick this one up.
There is so much exclusive history and interviews and other great content that will blow you away. There are previously unreleased interviews with Vince McMahon, Linda McMahon, Hulk Hogan etc. and very deep access into the history of the event. You will find yourself learning and being shocked at how much great information that is within this book.
These nuggets of information, great interviews and beautiful layout make the cover price worth it. This is something by a fan for fans. Plus, one read through will also highlight the hours that Brian put into the book and the love that crafted the work from cover to cover.
If you like the WWE in any way then you must buy this book. It’s a great read and would make one heck of a Christmas/birthday or anniversary present for the wrestling fan in your life.
The hardcover edition of the ‘30 Years of WrestleMania’ book is available from WWE and DK is available right now.
Purchase links: WWEShop and DK Publishing
Follow Brian Shields on Twitter @ItsBrianShields
Follow me on Twitter @DarraghWV