Allen (emer., Plymouth State Univ.; winner, 2009 International Skiing History Association's Lifetime Achievement Award) offers a very handy reference that is also a thoroughly researched guide to the history of skiing. Well constructed as a dictionary, it supplies boldface cross-references and makes effective use of see and see also references. International in scope, the entries average a dozen lines in length and include sport terminology (e.g., Telemark Skiing), countries from Albania to the former Yugoslavia, famous (e.g., Bode Miller) and significant (e.g., Fridtjof Nansen) people, and anecdotal references (e.g., "Ski Heil!"). Lengthier entries appear on topics including women on skis, ski fashions, and several countries. The real richness of the work is evident in the opening chronology and extensively referenced historical introduction. The chronology extends from 20,000 to 10,000 BCE to competitive events scheduled through 2018. It successfully shows the expanding use of skis via entries covering materials, military use, competition, law, exploration, training, and more. It also provides a supportive lead-in to the introduction--arguably the book's strongest portion. In very conversational fashion, this 24-page section, including 5 pages of endnotes, seeks to provide historical context for the dictionary entries. Numerous appendixes supply information on podium listings at championship events; skiing museums; event locations; and ski flying and speed skiing records. A topically arranged bibliography concludes the work. This volume will leave users awaiting future works focused on specific countries and regions. Summing Up: Highly recommended.

Choice Reviews

E. John B. Allen, is an American Emeritus Professor of History who has written nine previous books on the history of skiing and in this one he has produced a through and interesting work any ski enthusiast will enjoy dipping into.

Reference Reviews