Book Review: Wrestling for My Life: The Legend, the Reality, and the Faith of a WWE Superstar by Shawn Michaels

I have read a number of biographies or autobiographies by famous athletes in recent years. This is the first time that I am reading a book by a former member of the WWE. It was certainly interesting and definitely what I expected in a book by a former wrestler.
This is not your typical wrestling book. Wrestling is still a major part of the book, but this book is much more personal than the pubic persona of the wrestling superstar that Shawn Michaels once was. In this book, Shawn talks about his personal struggle, family trouble and how religion helped him overcome these dark episodes and find peace in his home again.

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I found myself enjoying this book. At first I figured that this was a book by an ex-athlete who wanted to cash in on his former fame, but I was really surprised to see how honest Michaels deals with his life and family in this book.
If you are not into religion and find that all this talk about religion is just something people say to get sympathy, this book is NOT for you. There is definitely a strong spiritual element to this book and Michaels shows some surprising weaknesses for someone who made a life focused on physical strength. But admitting that he was weak and that he needed guidance from somewhere was exactly how Michaels found a path in life that put him at ease with his career and family. Being a wrestler is not usually the background someone finds in a Christian, but similar to Michaels, I too believe that it takes people of all shapes and sizes to make up a community and so I have not issue with a former wrestler talking about his Christian faith. It is actually somewhat refreshing to read a book about religion from someone who did not grow up in a traditional religious environment.
Not surprisingly, Michaels is still experiencing doubts and still wrestles with his new life, but too me that shows how honest he is approaching his life and he writing of this book. Overall, this is a good book for people also struggling with their faith and doubting themselves.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the book courtesy of the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinion expressed in the post is solely my own and has not been influenced by any third parties.