. . . this is the history of a surprisingly fascinating symbiosis of as much interest to social historians as to baseball fans. --Publishers Weekly . . . a sound account of a baseball team s place in the life of a community . . . effectively focused on the most exciting era of a club that has meant so much to so many people. --Greensboro (NC) News & Record Any baseball buff will enjoy this entertaining look at the hey-day of the Big Red Machine. --Monterey (CA) Herald In interviews with players including Bench Rose Concepcion Perez manager Sparky Anderson journalists owners and civic leaders Walker reveals what it is that defines the Reds and what Cincinnati as a city represents.