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Racing to the Finish: My Story
It was a seemingly minor crash at Michigan International Speedway in June 2016 that ended the day early for Dale Earnhardt Jr. What he didn’t know was that it would also end his driving for the year. He’d dealt with concussions before, but concussions are like snowflakes—no two are the same. And recovery can be brutal—and lengthy.
As a third-generation driver in a family forever connected to the sport of stock-car racing, how could Dale Earnhardt Jr. sit on the sidelines and watch everyone else take their laps? It was one of the toughest seasons of his life—one that changed him forever.
In this gripping narrative from one of professional sports’ most beloved figures, Dale Jr. shares stories from his journey: how his career and his injury have transformed him, how he made the decision to retire at the end of the 2017 season after eighteen years behind the wheel, and what lies ahead for him in the next chapter of his life. There’s no second-guessing and no regrets from Driver #88. He simply wants to go out on his own terms and make the rest of his life off the racetrack count. Junior says, “I don’t want these last races to be just about me but rather the people who made my success possible: my fans, the folks who pack the grandstands rain or shine, my teammates and crew members through the years, industry colleagues, track volunteers, friends, family, sponsors. They’ve all played a role. I couldn’t have done it without them.”
As a third-generation driver in a family forever connected to the sport of stock-car racing, how could Dale Earnhardt Jr. sit on the sidelines and watch everyone else take their laps? It was one of the toughest seasons of his life—one that changed him forever.
In this gripping narrative from one of professional sports’ most beloved figures, Dale Jr. shares stories from his journey: how his career and his injury have transformed him, how he made the decision to retire at the end of the 2017 season after eighteen years behind the wheel, and what lies ahead for him in the next chapter of his life. There’s no second-guessing and no regrets from Driver #88. He simply wants to go out on his own terms and make the rest of his life off the racetrack count. Junior says, “I don’t want these last races to be just about me but rather the people who made my success possible: my fans, the folks who pack the grandstands rain or shine, my teammates and crew members through the years, industry colleagues, track volunteers, friends, family, sponsors. They’ve all played a role. I couldn’t have done it without them.”
208 pages, Hardcover
First published October 16, 2018
406 people are currently reading
1117 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 320 reviews
December 23, 2025
Even if you're not a NASCAR fan, this book will be an eye-opening read.
I've never really thought about concussions seriously (not as huge of a risk in dance vs contact sports, or NASCAR), but after reading this book, and learning a hell of a lot about them, I'll have to be more mindful about what I'm doing to prevent injury.
Jr. shares his struggles with multiple concussions that ultimately led to his retirement, and he does so with complete honesty, in hopes of helping others, which makes me appreciate this book (and him, as a person) even more.
It's not typically what you'd expect from a sports memoir, but that's what makes it so interesting. I'm glad he's still with us, and hope he'll get to enjoy many more decades with his family.
I've never really thought about concussions seriously (not as huge of a risk in dance vs contact sports, or NASCAR), but after reading this book, and learning a hell of a lot about them, I'll have to be more mindful about what I'm doing to prevent injury.
Jr. shares his struggles with multiple concussions that ultimately led to his retirement, and he does so with complete honesty, in hopes of helping others, which makes me appreciate this book (and him, as a person) even more.
It's not typically what you'd expect from a sports memoir, but that's what makes it so interesting. I'm glad he's still with us, and hope he'll get to enjoy many more decades with his family.
October 19, 2018
This book was truly written from the heart. Dale Jr opens up about his struggles, both internal and external, as he battled concussion symptoms brought on by multiple hits suffered toward the latter part of his racing career. This book is very eye opening and honest. Dale tells his story in an effort to raise awareness of concussions, the associated symptoms and their impact on a person's life, as well as the avenues for seeking and receiving professional help and treatment. In this, he succeeds. I'm thankful that Dale Jr saught and received treatment and hope this book and his story will provide the information and inspiration for others with head injuries to do the same.
October 19, 2018
Ok, I admit I have ALWAYS been a Dale Jr. fan. I cheered every time his car went around the track, was sorely disappointed when he didn't finish a race for whatever reason. When he had to sit races out, I was one of those fans that thought, oh, he'll be back and things will be back up to par again. Racing has always been a "tough guy" sport. You don't think of concussions affecting them when they walk away from crashes at close to 200 mph without a scratch. But seeing the sports most popular driver being practically disabled by repeated concussions opened everyone's eyes. It isn't only athletes, and yes, NASCAR drivers ARE athletes, that suffer concussions. You, in your everyday life, can suffer a head injury. Dale's story lets others know that they aren't alone, there are multiple types of concussions and there IS help available and you can get better! I am so thrilled to see Jr. enjoying his life with his wife and little girl and that he is doing so much better healthwise from his injuries.
I was given an eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
I was given an eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
November 20, 2018
Dale Earnhardt Jr. came into highest echelon of NASCAR racing in the final years of his father, who died on the last lap of the Daytona 500 in 2001 when his son finished second. Through shock, grief, and his own personality Dale Jr. quickly became one of the favorite drivers on the circuit.
What no one knew for years was the physical toll driving was taking on him through a large series of concussions that he kept hidden even from his family until he knew he had no choice. This book addresses his racing career, but focuses mostly on the effects these concussions had on him physically and emotionally.
His desire is to openly address the symptoms and the steps that can be conducted to head towards healing.
What no one knew for years was the physical toll driving was taking on him through a large series of concussions that he kept hidden even from his family until he knew he had no choice. This book addresses his racing career, but focuses mostly on the effects these concussions had on him physically and emotionally.
His desire is to openly address the symptoms and the steps that can be conducted to head towards healing.
December 16, 2018
When one thinks of concussions and sports, American football immediately comes to mind, but athletes other sports have risks of concussions and the long term effects as well. One of these sports is auto racing, as drivers may suffer concussions from crashes or even bumps against the wall or other cars. This was the case for Dale Earnhardt Jr. as he first exhibited these symptoms in 2012. His memoir explains what happened that day in Kansas and what he went through for the next five years, leading to his decision to retire from racing in 2017.
This is far from the typical sports memoir. Earnhardt focuses exclusively on the time period from 2012 to 2017 and focuses on his concussion, his treatment and how that affected his personal and racing life. What makes this book so different than others on concussions in sports is that the effects are explained in plain language without a lot of medical jargon. The writing is heartfelt and personal as the reader will feel like he or she is right there with Earnhardt, not only in the car or in the garage with his crew but also a the doctor office or doing the exercises he had to do to recover.
While there is some material about Earnhardt in his car on the track and stories about other racers such as Martin Truex Jr. and of course his father, the book is less about racing or NASCAR and more about the personal struggles he endured. He talks about crying (he says he only did so three times in his life), his decision to retire and the personal relationships he had with many people – not just his wife but other family members, his physician and the manager of Hendrick Motor Sports, the team he was racing for at the time of his retirement.
This book deserves a high rating for not only the personal touch of the writing, but also the message that is tells about concussions. While readers may very well have heard this message before, it is one worth repeating and if even if the book helps one person through his or her struggle with this injury, then Earnhardt’s reason for writing the book will be fulfilled.
I wish to thank Thomas Nelson-W Publishing for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
http://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/201...
This is far from the typical sports memoir. Earnhardt focuses exclusively on the time period from 2012 to 2017 and focuses on his concussion, his treatment and how that affected his personal and racing life. What makes this book so different than others on concussions in sports is that the effects are explained in plain language without a lot of medical jargon. The writing is heartfelt and personal as the reader will feel like he or she is right there with Earnhardt, not only in the car or in the garage with his crew but also a the doctor office or doing the exercises he had to do to recover.
While there is some material about Earnhardt in his car on the track and stories about other racers such as Martin Truex Jr. and of course his father, the book is less about racing or NASCAR and more about the personal struggles he endured. He talks about crying (he says he only did so three times in his life), his decision to retire and the personal relationships he had with many people – not just his wife but other family members, his physician and the manager of Hendrick Motor Sports, the team he was racing for at the time of his retirement.
This book deserves a high rating for not only the personal touch of the writing, but also the message that is tells about concussions. While readers may very well have heard this message before, it is one worth repeating and if even if the book helps one person through his or her struggle with this injury, then Earnhardt’s reason for writing the book will be fulfilled.
I wish to thank Thomas Nelson-W Publishing for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
http://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/201...
January 2, 2020
I have always been a massive fan of NASCAR, following Dale Earnhardt Jr. from the very beginning of my watching the sport. I vividly remember being 5 or 6 years old and begging my parents to buy me a poster of the #8 racecar at my school book fair and hanging it on my wall for over a decade later.
I also vividly remember the day I called my dad (also a massive racing fan) to tell him the news that Junior was sidelined for two races, and then a couple years later calling him crying to tell him of Juniors retirement.
Reading this book was a very touching experience. Getting to hear the first hand knowledge and experience of my childhood hero and seeing the open, honest, and transparent story telling from early in his career, to the injuries that eventually ended it was extremely educational and enjoyable.
I think this novel is extremely important in educating not just athletes or sports fans, but everyone, and sharing the discourse on concussions and brain injuries will open the conversation more and help and impact a lot of people.
I'm very proud of Dale and his family for being able to open up and share this experience with what can be a very harsh sports society and wish them nothing but the best, happiness, and health in the future. Will always be a part of Junior Nation ♥️
I also vividly remember the day I called my dad (also a massive racing fan) to tell him the news that Junior was sidelined for two races, and then a couple years later calling him crying to tell him of Juniors retirement.
Reading this book was a very touching experience. Getting to hear the first hand knowledge and experience of my childhood hero and seeing the open, honest, and transparent story telling from early in his career, to the injuries that eventually ended it was extremely educational and enjoyable.
I think this novel is extremely important in educating not just athletes or sports fans, but everyone, and sharing the discourse on concussions and brain injuries will open the conversation more and help and impact a lot of people.
I'm very proud of Dale and his family for being able to open up and share this experience with what can be a very harsh sports society and wish them nothing but the best, happiness, and health in the future. Will always be a part of Junior Nation ♥️
November 17, 2018
I found that this book while it has a lot of personal information it has even more information about concussions. It is a well written book. Even if you don't like auto racing this is book you can read and enjoy.
April 11, 2019
Having grown up watching his father race, then becoming a fan of his, I was looking forward to Jr.'s book a great deal. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. He's notoriously private, so to see how completely open he was with this was quite a surprise. It's raw, deep, and makes you feel things right along with him. It's a must for racing fans and anyone who loves a well-written memoir that goes deep.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2019
Five stars. I'd give it more if I could.
Compelling story. There was A LOT going on that the public and race fans had no idea about. It makes me think about Dale's career and results in a completely different way.
His story is also making me rethink the expectations I place on the athletes I watch, cheer for, and "expect" results from. I guess I always knew, but this book is really drove home how what we see on the field and on the TV is just the tip of the tip of the iceberg.
Compelling story. There was A LOT going on that the public and race fans had no idea about. It makes me think about Dale's career and results in a completely different way.
His story is also making me rethink the expectations I place on the athletes I watch, cheer for, and "expect" results from. I guess I always knew, but this book is really drove home how what we see on the field and on the TV is just the tip of the tip of the iceberg.
February 15, 2022
I enjoyed the story of the battle that raged on with Junior concerning his concussion symptoms. I recall being one of those fans that thought he was leaving the sport because of his wife and the book clearly addresses this. That was far from the truth. Anyone who struggles with concussions should rad this. If your part of Jr Nation or even a race fan in general. You will enjoy this book.
January 5, 2025
This one hits close to home for me. I applaud Dale Jr for being vulnerable and sharing his story in hopes of helping others. Heartfelt, personal, and such an important look in on the aftermath of concussions in professional athletes, specifically race car drivers. Highly recommend!
June 2, 2019
“If you're not a race driver, stay the hell home. Don't come here and grumble about going too fast. Get the hell out of the race car if you've got feathers on your legs or butt. Put a kerosene rag around your ankles so the ants won't climb up and eat that candy ass.”
― Dale Earnhardt
I picked up this book thinking it would be a story of racing. To my surprise, it was more about the struggle faced by race car drivers who suffer repetitive concussions. Sounds boring, right? I must admit that, to my dismay, this book was very good and held my attention.
We all think of ex-boxers and ex-football players who suffer after their career from head injuries, occasionally choosing to even commit suicide (ex., Junior Seau). But the truth is, race car drivers are just as likely, possibly more so, to receive concussions. Dale Jr. explains how NASCAR has taken steps to lessen these occurrences, but the problem still exists. Dale suffered about 10 major concussions during his career, including one where his car ran head-on into a wall and the "black box" now required to be installed in race cars measured a whopping 40-G impact !
Racing To The Finish brings to life what went on behind the scenes during the last couple years of Dale's racing career, as he suffered from terrible symptoms of brain injury but stubbornly tried to hang on to the sport he loved. It is a brave story told by one of the most popular drivers of our time.
Beyond the racing slant of this book, I feel it gives a good perspective of what it's like to live inside the head suffered by injury. It also sheds light on the danger of other sports where this risk is acknowledged by athletes and fans alike, yet generally downplayed as just part of the game.
― Dale Earnhardt
I picked up this book thinking it would be a story of racing. To my surprise, it was more about the struggle faced by race car drivers who suffer repetitive concussions. Sounds boring, right? I must admit that, to my dismay, this book was very good and held my attention.
We all think of ex-boxers and ex-football players who suffer after their career from head injuries, occasionally choosing to even commit suicide (ex., Junior Seau). But the truth is, race car drivers are just as likely, possibly more so, to receive concussions. Dale Jr. explains how NASCAR has taken steps to lessen these occurrences, but the problem still exists. Dale suffered about 10 major concussions during his career, including one where his car ran head-on into a wall and the "black box" now required to be installed in race cars measured a whopping 40-G impact !
Racing To The Finish brings to life what went on behind the scenes during the last couple years of Dale's racing career, as he suffered from terrible symptoms of brain injury but stubbornly tried to hang on to the sport he loved. It is a brave story told by one of the most popular drivers of our time.
Beyond the racing slant of this book, I feel it gives a good perspective of what it's like to live inside the head suffered by injury. It also sheds light on the danger of other sports where this risk is acknowledged by athletes and fans alike, yet generally downplayed as just part of the game.
May 1, 2019
This book hits home. Seriously.
I'm an unashamed fan of Dale Jr and have been since 2007. I've also suffered about a dozen concussions from various accidents (like tripping off a curb and headbutting my car, or when my horse took a corner too quick and fell on me during a ride when I wasn't wearing a helmet). I only had two officially diagnosed at the time of injury. What Dale talks about in his book - feeling "unplugged," "beer-drunk" without the beer, losing balance and feeling anxious - it's stuff I've struggled with but attributed to other issues or simply written off as having an off-day. I realize now that symptoms like this shouldn't be ignored. If one of the greatest and most hardheaded (hah) names in NASCAR pulled it together and got help, then I've no excuse.
I love how candid Dale is in this book. I suspected he was not in good shape after his wrecks and completely respected his decision to retire. After reading this, I have a newfound understanding for the struggles he went through. I commend him for not withholding anything and speaking the truth about his journey with his head injuries. It's not easy to do, like he said, especially being in the spotlight as he is. Even if I wasn't into NASCAR, I would find this book a fascinating read, and it's definitely one I recommend for everyone.
As much as I miss seeing Dale on the racetrack, I'm glad he was able to share his story.
I'm an unashamed fan of Dale Jr and have been since 2007. I've also suffered about a dozen concussions from various accidents (like tripping off a curb and headbutting my car, or when my horse took a corner too quick and fell on me during a ride when I wasn't wearing a helmet). I only had two officially diagnosed at the time of injury. What Dale talks about in his book - feeling "unplugged," "beer-drunk" without the beer, losing balance and feeling anxious - it's stuff I've struggled with but attributed to other issues or simply written off as having an off-day. I realize now that symptoms like this shouldn't be ignored. If one of the greatest and most hardheaded (hah) names in NASCAR pulled it together and got help, then I've no excuse.
I love how candid Dale is in this book. I suspected he was not in good shape after his wrecks and completely respected his decision to retire. After reading this, I have a newfound understanding for the struggles he went through. I commend him for not withholding anything and speaking the truth about his journey with his head injuries. It's not easy to do, like he said, especially being in the spotlight as he is. Even if I wasn't into NASCAR, I would find this book a fascinating read, and it's definitely one I recommend for everyone.
As much as I miss seeing Dale on the racetrack, I'm glad he was able to share his story.
May 13, 2019
Even though I dont follow NASCAR I found this book to be a really good one. Even if you don't follow NASCAR everyone knows dale jr. And the impact his retirement made on race fans everywhere. This book was a really good insight to what he dealt with and what led him to making the decision to retire. I would recommend this book to just about anyone but especially for people who have struggled with concussions or have followed the debate since dr. Omalu first started the discussion over CTE and the NFL.
February 26, 2021
I love Dale Jr. Just absolutely adore him. When I saw this book available on Kindle Unlimited, I had to download it. He talks about his final year in NASCAR and his health during that time. There is A LOT of information in here about concussions. Useful, valuable information for anyone who plays sports or any parent of a kid who plays sports. Junior explains what he went through, how he felt, and what the doctors told him and what they did to help him.
He explains all this without talking down to you and without using hard core medical jargon.
I hated when he retired from racing. I miss that guy. I miss the days of the beautiful #8 Budweiser car. I miss the #88 too, but that red car was special. I always thought I was a NASCAR fan. I was wrong. Turns out I was a Junior fan. I've watched parts of races since he's retired, but haven't finished watching one yet. Not even Daytona, or my favorite, Talladega.
Like I said, I hated that he had to retire, but after reading this book, I understand why he had to. His health is what's most important, and I want him to live a long, healthy life and be happy. I remember when he had that fire in the Corvette in California I think it was for some other race (I forget which one or who it was for). Scared me to DEATH to see that. Or when his plane crashed not too long ago.
After reading his story, I'm glad he did retire. Still miss watching him race, but at least he's still with us. #JuniorNation
4.5 / 5 stars just because he's Junebug <3
He explains all this without talking down to you and without using hard core medical jargon.
I hated when he retired from racing. I miss that guy. I miss the days of the beautiful #8 Budweiser car. I miss the #88 too, but that red car was special. I always thought I was a NASCAR fan. I was wrong. Turns out I was a Junior fan. I've watched parts of races since he's retired, but haven't finished watching one yet. Not even Daytona, or my favorite, Talladega.
Like I said, I hated that he had to retire, but after reading this book, I understand why he had to. His health is what's most important, and I want him to live a long, healthy life and be happy. I remember when he had that fire in the Corvette in California I think it was for some other race (I forget which one or who it was for). Scared me to DEATH to see that. Or when his plane crashed not too long ago.
After reading his story, I'm glad he did retire. Still miss watching him race, but at least he's still with us. #JuniorNation
4.5 / 5 stars just because he's Junebug <3
August 17, 2019
Open and honest account of struggling with concussions. Brave reflections.
Read
March 5, 2025Memoir - No rating
December 31, 2018
You knew I had to give this 5 stars, right?
September 5, 2022
Interesting little book by Dale Jr., but it's more about his comeback and retirement due to concussions than racing (though there is a lot about racing in it, obviously).
It's a quick read that sounds like Dale Jr. probably dictated it to his co-author, Ryan McGee. Other than a few medical terms, it could easily be a young adult book (and basically is one).
It's also a story with a lesson that needs to be repeated over and over: if you had a concussion, or even suspect you did, get medical help as soon as possible. Do not try to "tough it out" or hope your symptoms magically go away. They won't.
Dale Jr. was under tremendous (often self-applied) pressure to hide his symptoms, even when he could barely stand up or see straight. He was that afraid of losing his ride (his Nascar racing spot). Now imagine how a racecar driver not named Earnhardt must feel. Or some regular schlub in local races. Or a high school kid playing football or soccer.
Anyone who has played school sports knows it is almost impossible to get a coach to take injuries seriously, or to have the guts to even mention it to them. Nobody wants to get benched.
It does seem things are changing, albeit very slowly. Just a couple of years ago I heard a high school football coach basically admonish anyone worried about kids getting CTE, complaining that "parents may not be ready" for their kids to play football. This kind of attitude has wrecked lives. This is brain damage we are talking about, not a cramp on a hot day you can tough out.
I had a concussion in high school in a car wreck. People tried to give me a beer afterward. People tend to just soldier on, hoping things get better, including me back then (this was a REALLY long time ago).
Like Dale Jr. says, get it looked at. Concussion treatment has come a long, long way in the last 20 years, and treatments aren't "lie in a dark room" or "avoid sports" or whatever. It's more active, with the goal of getting back to doing what you love safely and quickly. And it can be done. The book describes a lot of modern treatments.
Anyway, it's a good read, and a book every athlete should read, especially young ones and their parents.
Also, there's lots of interesting Nascar insider stuff, and details about Dale Jr., his family, his business, his racing, tire tests, and lots of other cool Nascar stuff.
I gave it four stars more for the message (get help!) than for the writing, which isn't bad, but isn't four-star literature either. Boogity boogity!
It's a quick read that sounds like Dale Jr. probably dictated it to his co-author, Ryan McGee. Other than a few medical terms, it could easily be a young adult book (and basically is one).
It's also a story with a lesson that needs to be repeated over and over: if you had a concussion, or even suspect you did, get medical help as soon as possible. Do not try to "tough it out" or hope your symptoms magically go away. They won't.
Dale Jr. was under tremendous (often self-applied) pressure to hide his symptoms, even when he could barely stand up or see straight. He was that afraid of losing his ride (his Nascar racing spot). Now imagine how a racecar driver not named Earnhardt must feel. Or some regular schlub in local races. Or a high school kid playing football or soccer.
Anyone who has played school sports knows it is almost impossible to get a coach to take injuries seriously, or to have the guts to even mention it to them. Nobody wants to get benched.
It does seem things are changing, albeit very slowly. Just a couple of years ago I heard a high school football coach basically admonish anyone worried about kids getting CTE, complaining that "parents may not be ready" for their kids to play football. This kind of attitude has wrecked lives. This is brain damage we are talking about, not a cramp on a hot day you can tough out.
I had a concussion in high school in a car wreck. People tried to give me a beer afterward. People tend to just soldier on, hoping things get better, including me back then (this was a REALLY long time ago).
Like Dale Jr. says, get it looked at. Concussion treatment has come a long, long way in the last 20 years, and treatments aren't "lie in a dark room" or "avoid sports" or whatever. It's more active, with the goal of getting back to doing what you love safely and quickly. And it can be done. The book describes a lot of modern treatments.
Anyway, it's a good read, and a book every athlete should read, especially young ones and their parents.
Also, there's lots of interesting Nascar insider stuff, and details about Dale Jr., his family, his business, his racing, tire tests, and lots of other cool Nascar stuff.
I gave it four stars more for the message (get help!) than for the writing, which isn't bad, but isn't four-star literature either. Boogity boogity!
February 26, 2019
If you think you are going to get a story about race car driving then you are in for a big surprise. Although the book does go into some of Dale Earnhardt, Jr's racing, it is mainly a story about the brain injuries that he suffered in some of his crashes and how he dealt with them and ultimately was able to retire from a career that he truly loved. Most people equate CTE (Chronic traumatic encephalopathy) with football players. CTE is a brain condition associated with repeated blows to the head and sometimes leading to the development of dementia. The same thing happens to race car drivers who have suffered crashes causing their brains to bounce back and forth inside their skulls. Earnhardt began noticing strange sensations, headaches, nausea, and problems focusing after his crashes. He started writing a diary to keep track of these occurrences and he finally went to a doctor who helped him to not only deal with the problem but to heal his brain. Earnhardt takes you through his journey and how Dr. Michael "Micky" Collins helped him reach his destination. This is a very educational book regarding concussions and how they can and should be treated aggressively. I was aware of new medical techniques that are on the rise for brain issues but I did not know how much they could achieve in actually healing the brain until I read Earnhardt's story. The reader will find this an easy book to read as it is almost like sitting down with a friend and having him explain what he has been through. I am not a big NASCAR fan, nor was I a big Dale Earnhardt, Jr. fan but I am certainly on the 'Dale train' after reading this book. I can see why he has such a huge following and why he is so beloved by his many fans. He comes off as humble and he speaks from the heart. He retired from racing after the 2017 season because the fear of another brain injury would not allow him to race with the same passion that he had always raced in the past. I wish him well in whatever he endeavors to do and thank him for this excellent book that I'm sure will help many people.
December 30, 2018
5 Stars. Written by Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Ryan McGhee (contributor). This book takes us into the psyche of Dale Earnhardt Jr., a former NASCAR driver. The topic of the book revolves around Dale Jr.’s concussions and to raise awareness to (mostly) athletes, in all sports. It delves into how Dale received his first, and then subsequent concussions as a driver, and follows Dale’s documentation of symptoms he made on his notes app on his iPhone throughout the last years of his driving career. Dale Jr. has always been in the spotlight, whether you are a fan or not, and his concussions brought forth NASCAR to address/reevaluate this necessary subject. His strong character showed throughout the book, and it was interesting to follow the races he was in, based on where he was with his concussion symptoms and how he dealt with it at first internally, as well as the events that eventually led him to the decision to retire.
May 3, 2022
I became a racing fan back in the 90’s and my favorite driver was Rusty Wallace. But after Wallace retired, I became an Earnhardt fan. Dale Earnhardt
After Earnhardt was killed in a crash, my love for NASCAR became all about Dale Jr. After all the NASCAR fan base went through when we lost our Intimidator, it made sense to turn our support towards his son.
I have been a fan of Jr ever since. I’m still a fan since he retired.
About a year ago, I started listening to Dirty Mo Dale’s Podcast. I started from the beginning and I just recently listened to the podcast about the release of this book. So, of course, I had to read this.
This isn’t a book specifically about Dale Jr and his racing career. It’s part of it. But this one focused on his struggle with concussion symptoms.
I remember losing interest in NASCAR, noticing Jr just wasn’t as competitive as he used to be. I started watching less and less. Now I understand why. And I also feel more respect for Jr for sharing his personal struggles dealing with the concussions.
A fascinating book! If you don’t know anything about Dale Earnhardt Jr, it doesn’t matter. This is still worth the read!
After Earnhardt was killed in a crash, my love for NASCAR became all about Dale Jr. After all the NASCAR fan base went through when we lost our Intimidator, it made sense to turn our support towards his son.
I have been a fan of Jr ever since. I’m still a fan since he retired.
About a year ago, I started listening to Dirty Mo Dale’s Podcast. I started from the beginning and I just recently listened to the podcast about the release of this book. So, of course, I had to read this.
This isn’t a book specifically about Dale Jr and his racing career. It’s part of it. But this one focused on his struggle with concussion symptoms.
I remember losing interest in NASCAR, noticing Jr just wasn’t as competitive as he used to be. I started watching less and less. Now I understand why. And I also feel more respect for Jr for sharing his personal struggles dealing with the concussions.
A fascinating book! If you don’t know anything about Dale Earnhardt Jr, it doesn’t matter. This is still worth the read!
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January 29, 2025Reading about the physical and mental struggles that Dale battled throughout the entirety of his career--at least those attributed to concussions--helps ease the major 'what-ifs' that have been endlessly pondered about his ceiling for success, and close calls with that elusive Cup championship. It sheds a lot of light on periods of performances where everyone expected better, only to see him struggling on the track. It's certainly not the whole story, but several of the crashes he describes were ones I watched live and have memory of, not thinking much of them in the miasma of crashes that happen every season. Then Dale points them out as ground-zero events for his symptoms, ones that took him out of the car on two separate occasions. The sad truth of concussions is that they're easier to contract the more of them you get, and Dale took some pretty nasty hits pretty much from the beginning. A very insightful book, with a message encouraging you to always put health first. Always tell someone, don't keep it inside.
March 6, 2019
My dad loves NASCAR, I loosely started following in the early 2000s it as a way to spend Sunday afternoon with my pops. And in the early 2000s my young 20 something self thought Dale Jr was a stone cold fox. I picked up this book knowing a bit about his struggles with his health and his retirement partly due to a series of concussions. I thought his honesty about his recovery and struggles was incredible. The real time notes after each race were eye opening. This isn't going to win a Pulitizer but it earns high marks from me for nostalgia and honesty.
January 3, 2019
As a long time Fan of both Dale Sr and Dale Jr, i found this book an amazing read. It’s not often a high profile person such as Dale Jr comes out to talk about the injuries he suffered. It’s refreshing to read his honest opinion about his condition and what he did to hide it and then later to come out in public to let the world know what he has been going through. I find it especially great he is not just doing this to better himself as a husband, father and person... he put his love for racing aside, the game, the money that had yet to be made. he is genuinely wanting to help the normal everyday person who may be suffering from the same conditions.
An excellent read regardless of whether you’re a fan or not.
An excellent read regardless of whether you’re a fan or not.
January 25, 2019
I've never been a fan of racing, but my teenage son is an absolute fan. Dale Jr. is one of his top racers and he loves every thing to do with him and his racing. So, when the chance to review this book came up, I jumped on it just for him.
The upside about the book? I actually liked it, considering I'm not into non-fiction. This book takes some of the why's behind his career and tells his fans about his life. It was beautifully and tenderly written with Ryan McGee.
My son read it after I did, and he's the main one that would know if this is quality reading about his race car driver, and, he loved it. He's adding it to his keeper collection. He says it's definitely worthy of the 4 stars I want to give it. So, if you're a fan of Earnhardt Jr. and racing, grab this book. You'll learn so much about the man behind the racing.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harper Collins (Thomas Nelson) and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
The upside about the book? I actually liked it, considering I'm not into non-fiction. This book takes some of the why's behind his career and tells his fans about his life. It was beautifully and tenderly written with Ryan McGee.
My son read it after I did, and he's the main one that would know if this is quality reading about his race car driver, and, he loved it. He's adding it to his keeper collection. He says it's definitely worthy of the 4 stars I want to give it. So, if you're a fan of Earnhardt Jr. and racing, grab this book. You'll learn so much about the man behind the racing.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harper Collins (Thomas Nelson) and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
November 8, 2020
As a long time Junior fan I can honestly say before reading this book that I would have never had any clue of how huge of a struggle he had for so many years. By know means is this book a life story, its focus is on his concussions and his struggle to finish out his career. This is a must read for any sports fan or athletic person who thinks they may be struggling with concussions.
March 7, 2022
Really good book. I thought it was more of a traditional biography but I was happily surprised to discover that was not the case. This book primarily focuses on the concussions that ended Dale Jr’s career. I always knew concussions is what forced him into retirement but I had no clue how much he suffered over the years. Good insightful stuff. A quick read that I highly recommend.
December 14, 2018
Long-time Dale Earnhardt Jr. fan. I appreciated reading this book, given how his health situation hits so very close to home. Well written (like he’s casually chatting as old friends), informative, heartwarming and hopeful.
November 9, 2020
Dale will always be one of my favorite drivers. This book goes in-depth about how he struggled with concussions throughout his career. It was a good read and anyone who is a Dale fan definitely worth a read!!
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