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My Dad, Yogi: A Memoir of Family and Baseball
A candid and nostalgic father-son memoir by Dale Berra, providing a unique perspective on his legendary Hall of Fame dad, the inimitable and highly quotable Yogi Berra.
Everyone knows Yogi Berra. The American icon was the backbone of the New York Yankees through ten World Series Championships, managed the National League Champion New York Mets in 1973, and had an ingenious way with words that remains an indelible part of our lexicon. But no one knew him like his family did. My Dad, Yogi is Dale Berra's chronicle of his unshakeable bond with his father, as well as an intimate portrait of one of the great sports figures of the 20th Century.
When Yogi wasn't playing or coaching, or otherwise in the public eye, he was home in the New Jersey suburbs, spending time with his beloved wife, Carmen, and his three boys, Larry, Tim, and Dale. Dale presents -- as only a son could -- his family's history, his parents' enduring relationship, and his dad's storied career. Throughout Dale's youth, he had a firsthand look at the Major Leagues, often by his dad's side during Yogi's years as a coach and manager. The Berra's lifelong family friends included Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, and Whitey Ford. It's no coincidence that all three Berra sons were inspired to play sports constantly, and that all three became professional athletes, following in their dad's footsteps.
Dale came up with the Pittsburgh Pirates, contributing to their 1979 championship season and emerging as one of baseball's most talented young players. After three strong seasons, Dale was traded to New York, briefly united with his dad in the Yankee dugout. But there was also an extraordinary challenge developing. Dale was implicated in a major cocaine scandal involving some of the biggest names in the sport, and his promising career was ultimately cut short by his drug problem. Yogi supported his son all along, eventually staging the intervention that would save Dale's life, and draw the entire family even closer. My Dad, Yogi is Dale's tribute to his dad -- a treat for baseball fans and a poignant story for fathers and sons everywhere.
Everyone knows Yogi Berra. The American icon was the backbone of the New York Yankees through ten World Series Championships, managed the National League Champion New York Mets in 1973, and had an ingenious way with words that remains an indelible part of our lexicon. But no one knew him like his family did. My Dad, Yogi is Dale Berra's chronicle of his unshakeable bond with his father, as well as an intimate portrait of one of the great sports figures of the 20th Century.
When Yogi wasn't playing or coaching, or otherwise in the public eye, he was home in the New Jersey suburbs, spending time with his beloved wife, Carmen, and his three boys, Larry, Tim, and Dale. Dale presents -- as only a son could -- his family's history, his parents' enduring relationship, and his dad's storied career. Throughout Dale's youth, he had a firsthand look at the Major Leagues, often by his dad's side during Yogi's years as a coach and manager. The Berra's lifelong family friends included Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, and Whitey Ford. It's no coincidence that all three Berra sons were inspired to play sports constantly, and that all three became professional athletes, following in their dad's footsteps.
Dale came up with the Pittsburgh Pirates, contributing to their 1979 championship season and emerging as one of baseball's most talented young players. After three strong seasons, Dale was traded to New York, briefly united with his dad in the Yankee dugout. But there was also an extraordinary challenge developing. Dale was implicated in a major cocaine scandal involving some of the biggest names in the sport, and his promising career was ultimately cut short by his drug problem. Yogi supported his son all along, eventually staging the intervention that would save Dale's life, and draw the entire family even closer. My Dad, Yogi is Dale's tribute to his dad -- a treat for baseball fans and a poignant story for fathers and sons everywhere.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published May 7, 2019
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May 6, 2019
Whether or not one is a baseball fan, it is likely that person knows who Yogi Berra is. Many remember him as a Hall of Fame baseball player for the New York Yankees who also managed both the Yankees and New York Mets to the World Series. Maybe the person knows Yogi from his famous quotes that are humorous and still repeated by many now, more than three years after his death. Whatever the reason, people still love the man. One of his three sons, Dale, also became a major league player and has written a memoir about the entire Berra family that will tug at heartstrings and also show a side of Yogi that many people may not know.
Dale writes about his father during his childhood years as a man who, while he didn’t say it often, would know that his children are loved by him. Dale and his brothers Tim and Larry were all fine athletes but only Dale made it to the big leagues. If there is a downfall to this book, it is that Dale will write long passages about himself instead of Yogi, Carmen and his brothers, especially about his battle with drug addiction. That will be a disappointment to readers like myself who wanted to read only about the entire family.
However, what he DOES write about his parents is excellent. The story of how his father met Carmen, who would become Yogi’s wife (Yogi felt he married up by wedding Carmen) was beautiful as well as the exchange between Yogi and Dale that the latter said was what would get him through another day:
“You all right, Kid?”
“Yeah, Dad, I’m all right”
“That’s all I want to hear, Kid.”
While this was the best of the stories, there are plenty of other fine stories about Yogi and the family as well. The day that Yogi decided to end his self-exile from Yankee Stadium 15 years after being fired as Yankee manager is one. The intervention called by Carmen after Dale was arrested for drug possession and usage years after they thought he was over his addiction was eye-opening. Even in Dale’s younger days when he would be excited to be in the same clubhouse as star players on the Mets that his dad was managing such as Tom Seaver and Willie Mays, the stories would be fun to read.
This book does give a reader insight into the Berra family that other books don’t and when that insight comes from a family member, it gives it even more credibility. Despite the long passages about Dale himself, this book nonetheless is a worthwhile addition the library of anyone who is a fan of Yogi Berra.
I wish to thank Hackett Books for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Dale writes about his father during his childhood years as a man who, while he didn’t say it often, would know that his children are loved by him. Dale and his brothers Tim and Larry were all fine athletes but only Dale made it to the big leagues. If there is a downfall to this book, it is that Dale will write long passages about himself instead of Yogi, Carmen and his brothers, especially about his battle with drug addiction. That will be a disappointment to readers like myself who wanted to read only about the entire family.
However, what he DOES write about his parents is excellent. The story of how his father met Carmen, who would become Yogi’s wife (Yogi felt he married up by wedding Carmen) was beautiful as well as the exchange between Yogi and Dale that the latter said was what would get him through another day:
“You all right, Kid?”
“Yeah, Dad, I’m all right”
“That’s all I want to hear, Kid.”
While this was the best of the stories, there are plenty of other fine stories about Yogi and the family as well. The day that Yogi decided to end his self-exile from Yankee Stadium 15 years after being fired as Yankee manager is one. The intervention called by Carmen after Dale was arrested for drug possession and usage years after they thought he was over his addiction was eye-opening. Even in Dale’s younger days when he would be excited to be in the same clubhouse as star players on the Mets that his dad was managing such as Tom Seaver and Willie Mays, the stories would be fun to read.
This book does give a reader insight into the Berra family that other books don’t and when that insight comes from a family member, it gives it even more credibility. Despite the long passages about Dale himself, this book nonetheless is a worthwhile addition the library of anyone who is a fan of Yogi Berra.
I wish to thank Hackett Books for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2018
A little about Yogi, a lot about Dale. Strong start, lost me in the middle, but a beautiful ending. Automatic bonus star for making me cry.
August 26, 2019
More about Dale Berra than Yogi Berra.
October 7, 2018
I enjoyed reading about Yogi and his family.
But it was more about his three boys and where they are now. I enjoyed the stories of Yogi in his early days with the Yankees. I remember some of the famous players and would have liked reading about them more than his three sons.
I lived not too far from the family in Montclair. My nieces went to Montclair High School at the same times as Larry, Timmy and Dale. They got into a lot of trouble in High School, because they were Yogi's sons they got out of a lot of trouble in High School, also!
I would have liked the book much better if it was centered more around Yogi and the other old timers of the Yankees.
If you love baseball and liked reading about some of the old timer players than this book is for you.
If you want to know more about the Berra Brothers, than this book is for you.
But it was more about his three boys and where they are now. I enjoyed the stories of Yogi in his early days with the Yankees. I remember some of the famous players and would have liked reading about them more than his three sons.
I lived not too far from the family in Montclair. My nieces went to Montclair High School at the same times as Larry, Timmy and Dale. They got into a lot of trouble in High School, because they were Yogi's sons they got out of a lot of trouble in High School, also!
I would have liked the book much better if it was centered more around Yogi and the other old timers of the Yankees.
If you love baseball and liked reading about some of the old timer players than this book is for you.
If you want to know more about the Berra Brothers, than this book is for you.
August 9, 2019
I love Yogi Berra, and didn't know anything about his son, so I thought it was pretty interesting. I did kind of get a little tired of all the gushing on Yogi, though. I mean, I know he was a great guy, but didn't really need to be reminded of it every other sentence.
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May 12, 2025In the memoir My Dad,Yogi by Dale Berra you get to see life from an inside perspective of being one of the most known baseball players' children, and realizing how it can be difficult growing up in the shadow of someone famous. This book shares many moments of Yogi and Dales life which also reveals the tight relationship between them. Dale Berra Reveals many things in the book about his father more than how he was just a baseball player but he was a great dad. This is a great book as it shares many special moments between Yogi and Dale, also something some readers can relate to. I would recommend this memoir to anyone who has a love for sports or even somebody who just enjoys reading.
Dale Berra presents great stories that provide strong messages of risk taking, overcoming difficulties, and living up to his father’s legacy. In the beginning of the book he talks about how he battled with adversity as people told him “You'll never be as good as your old man.” This showed how much living up to his dad’s expectations was always in his mind. But Dale still played baseball because he knew he was still a good player just because he wasn't as great as his dad did not mean he was not good enough to play professional baseball yet he still took this risk and won a world series with the pirates. Dale also talks about his dad’s managing experience and how his dad was a player’s coach, his players were willing to do anything to win as a quote says “Rusty courageously kept playing virtually with one arm.” This shows the push and inspiration Yogi had on the players because Rusty had run full speed into the wall in the World Series to make a play injuring his shoulder and he kept wanting to play after the matter. This memoir has many examples of risk taking and growth in people's personal lives.
I was able to make strong connections to Dale's love of baseball with my personal love for baseball and I was also able to make a connection with his difficulty of having a successful parent having to not be entitled but a hard worker which I think many people can relate to. A quote from Dale in the memoir was “In Yogi world, you didn't get points for being anybody's son.”This shows how Yogi did not baby his kids and still pushed them to be great many people can relate to this because you cannot always rely on who your family is in certain situations and it also shows how you have to build a name for yourself you cannot just depend on others for everything. A quote that was important to me was “But my Drug of choice was baseball. It always will be.” This connects with me because Dale also found something to turn to when he wasn't feeling himself and his passion for baseball was unbreakable because he worked so hard for everything it would always be something fun for him. These quotes and connections made me realize that this memoir is not only about baseball but it is about creating a personal identity for yourself and also taking passion in something you love to do.
Dale Berra uses strong vocab and word choice that help bring a deep understanding of His dad’s personal life and an inside family perspective. In the memoir, he says “He was born Lorenzo Lorenzo Pietro Berra, though around dago hill in St. Louis the children of immigrants, as first generation Americans, anglicized their names,” The use of the word “anglicized” is powerful as it shows how the Berras had to deal with cultural influences from others and try to sound more Americanized to fit in with others. Another strong word choice used in the memoir is used in this quote “He became ingrained in the fabric of the greatest generation that won the big war and refused to accept defeat.” Here “Ingrained” is used to show Yogi's dedication to America and his personal life. Many don't know that Yogi Is a WW2 Veteran and the words used in this quote create a great respect for Yogi's hard work and that he was more than just a professional baseball player.
Dale also leaves readers with many good thoughts and interesting questions that help think about their father and son connection that was unbreakable. A quote from the book that was important to me was ““No, he wasn’t a saint, just a man who wanted to be a good Catholic but never tried to be something he wasn’t.” This showed Yogi's humble mentality which connects deeply to the theme of the book being your own self and staying true to yourself. To me it brought the question of why is it so important to be humble when you are looked at as a star. His unique lifestyle leaves people with a thought of how he was so successful off the field in creating a strong relationship with his family and also how he was so strong personally. This memoir helps show the caring personality of Yogi and what he valued the most.
Dale Berra presents great stories that provide strong messages of risk taking, overcoming difficulties, and living up to his father’s legacy. In the beginning of the book he talks about how he battled with adversity as people told him “You'll never be as good as your old man.” This showed how much living up to his dad’s expectations was always in his mind. But Dale still played baseball because he knew he was still a good player just because he wasn't as great as his dad did not mean he was not good enough to play professional baseball yet he still took this risk and won a world series with the pirates. Dale also talks about his dad’s managing experience and how his dad was a player’s coach, his players were willing to do anything to win as a quote says “Rusty courageously kept playing virtually with one arm.” This shows the push and inspiration Yogi had on the players because Rusty had run full speed into the wall in the World Series to make a play injuring his shoulder and he kept wanting to play after the matter. This memoir has many examples of risk taking and growth in people's personal lives.
I was able to make strong connections to Dale's love of baseball with my personal love for baseball and I was also able to make a connection with his difficulty of having a successful parent having to not be entitled but a hard worker which I think many people can relate to. A quote from Dale in the memoir was “In Yogi world, you didn't get points for being anybody's son.”This shows how Yogi did not baby his kids and still pushed them to be great many people can relate to this because you cannot always rely on who your family is in certain situations and it also shows how you have to build a name for yourself you cannot just depend on others for everything. A quote that was important to me was “But my Drug of choice was baseball. It always will be.” This connects with me because Dale also found something to turn to when he wasn't feeling himself and his passion for baseball was unbreakable because he worked so hard for everything it would always be something fun for him. These quotes and connections made me realize that this memoir is not only about baseball but it is about creating a personal identity for yourself and also taking passion in something you love to do.
Dale Berra uses strong vocab and word choice that help bring a deep understanding of His dad’s personal life and an inside family perspective. In the memoir, he says “He was born Lorenzo Lorenzo Pietro Berra, though around dago hill in St. Louis the children of immigrants, as first generation Americans, anglicized their names,” The use of the word “anglicized” is powerful as it shows how the Berras had to deal with cultural influences from others and try to sound more Americanized to fit in with others. Another strong word choice used in the memoir is used in this quote “He became ingrained in the fabric of the greatest generation that won the big war and refused to accept defeat.” Here “Ingrained” is used to show Yogi's dedication to America and his personal life. Many don't know that Yogi Is a WW2 Veteran and the words used in this quote create a great respect for Yogi's hard work and that he was more than just a professional baseball player.
Dale also leaves readers with many good thoughts and interesting questions that help think about their father and son connection that was unbreakable. A quote from the book that was important to me was ““No, he wasn’t a saint, just a man who wanted to be a good Catholic but never tried to be something he wasn’t.” This showed Yogi's humble mentality which connects deeply to the theme of the book being your own self and staying true to yourself. To me it brought the question of why is it so important to be humble when you are looked at as a star. His unique lifestyle leaves people with a thought of how he was so successful off the field in creating a strong relationship with his family and also how he was so strong personally. This memoir helps show the caring personality of Yogi and what he valued the most.
June 10, 2019
Just in time for Father’s Day, MY DAD, YOGI arrives in bookstores across America. It is an entertaining and often moving story of a baseball family whose patriarch is perhaps the most quoted athlete in sports history. Yogi Berra was a talented catcher and a successful manager, and is a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. But he is most remembered for his malapropisms than for any of his numerous achievements on the baseball diamond.
An accomplished major league baseball player in his own right, Dale Berra, Yogi’s youngest son, brings a different perspective on life growing up in the Berra household. Baseball is a game that fathers often teach their sons to play. Other lessons in life are far more difficult, and as years progress, parents and children learn from each other.
Yogi, who died in 2015 at the age of 90, was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1972. His career included 18 appearances in the All-Star Game, 10 World Series championships and three American League MVP awards. From 1949-55, on a team with star players Mickey Mantle and Joe DiMaggio, it was Yogi who led the Yankees in RBI for seven consecutive seasons. While his baseball statistics are remarkable and place him in the upper echelon of catchers, MY DAD, YOGI is not a book recounting game and season highlights.
Not only was Yogi one of the greatest players on one of the greatest teams in the greatest era of baseball, he was also a father. And while the sport often took him away from his home in Montclair, New Jersey, he still worked hard at being a dad to his three sons. Dale includes many comments from his brothers, Larry and Tim, which emphasize that the Berra household was in most ways no different from any other American family of its era.
Generational differences between Yogi and Dale impacted their respective lives. Yogi played for the Yankees during an era when alcohol was the drug of choice for players; it destroyed careers and shortened many others. Writers who covered the team kept this secret from fans. Dale played in an era when cocaine was the preferred drug. By this time, the media was not so reticent to report on drug use. Dale would testify in a criminal trial and admit to using cocaine. He pled guilty in state court to drug possession and received a light sentence, as well as a technical suspension from baseball.
The father-son dynamic played out in the Berra family as it did in many American families in the ’80s. Yogi was the father trying to help, but not really understanding what to do. Dale, while acknowledging his drug dependence, believed it was not a problem and that he could stop whenever he wished. Eventually his family had to intervene. Dale is candid about his battle with drugs and the sorrow it brought to his loved ones.
This is not a book for hardcore baseball fans interested only in statistics and highlights from Yogi’s career. Yogi was best known for his famous “Yogi-isms,” the unique comments on life that were part philosophy and part malapropism. These quotes attributed to him now fill books and can also be found on the internet through a simple Google search. Many are legendary. When inducted into the Hall of Fame, he made certain to include one in his speech: “I guess the first thing I should say is I want to thank everyone who made this day necessary.” Yogi knew that these were a gold mine, and he cultivated their use, accepting credit for some that truly were not his.
Shortly after his death, President Barack Obama awarded Yogi the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Quoting him, Obama, an accomplished wordsmith in his own right, observed, “One thing we know for sure: If you can't imitate him, don't copy him."
Enjoy MY DAD, YOGI for what it is: a story about a loving man and his family. Dale Berra reminds readers that his father wanted only the best for his family, even in difficult and complicated times. Every father wants no less for his children.
Reviewed by Stuart Shiffman
An accomplished major league baseball player in his own right, Dale Berra, Yogi’s youngest son, brings a different perspective on life growing up in the Berra household. Baseball is a game that fathers often teach their sons to play. Other lessons in life are far more difficult, and as years progress, parents and children learn from each other.
Yogi, who died in 2015 at the age of 90, was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1972. His career included 18 appearances in the All-Star Game, 10 World Series championships and three American League MVP awards. From 1949-55, on a team with star players Mickey Mantle and Joe DiMaggio, it was Yogi who led the Yankees in RBI for seven consecutive seasons. While his baseball statistics are remarkable and place him in the upper echelon of catchers, MY DAD, YOGI is not a book recounting game and season highlights.
Not only was Yogi one of the greatest players on one of the greatest teams in the greatest era of baseball, he was also a father. And while the sport often took him away from his home in Montclair, New Jersey, he still worked hard at being a dad to his three sons. Dale includes many comments from his brothers, Larry and Tim, which emphasize that the Berra household was in most ways no different from any other American family of its era.
Generational differences between Yogi and Dale impacted their respective lives. Yogi played for the Yankees during an era when alcohol was the drug of choice for players; it destroyed careers and shortened many others. Writers who covered the team kept this secret from fans. Dale played in an era when cocaine was the preferred drug. By this time, the media was not so reticent to report on drug use. Dale would testify in a criminal trial and admit to using cocaine. He pled guilty in state court to drug possession and received a light sentence, as well as a technical suspension from baseball.
The father-son dynamic played out in the Berra family as it did in many American families in the ’80s. Yogi was the father trying to help, but not really understanding what to do. Dale, while acknowledging his drug dependence, believed it was not a problem and that he could stop whenever he wished. Eventually his family had to intervene. Dale is candid about his battle with drugs and the sorrow it brought to his loved ones.
This is not a book for hardcore baseball fans interested only in statistics and highlights from Yogi’s career. Yogi was best known for his famous “Yogi-isms,” the unique comments on life that were part philosophy and part malapropism. These quotes attributed to him now fill books and can also be found on the internet through a simple Google search. Many are legendary. When inducted into the Hall of Fame, he made certain to include one in his speech: “I guess the first thing I should say is I want to thank everyone who made this day necessary.” Yogi knew that these were a gold mine, and he cultivated their use, accepting credit for some that truly were not his.
Shortly after his death, President Barack Obama awarded Yogi the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Quoting him, Obama, an accomplished wordsmith in his own right, observed, “One thing we know for sure: If you can't imitate him, don't copy him."
Enjoy MY DAD, YOGI for what it is: a story about a loving man and his family. Dale Berra reminds readers that his father wanted only the best for his family, even in difficult and complicated times. Every father wants no less for his children.
Reviewed by Stuart Shiffman
November 1, 2018
∗ I was gifted a free copy of this book while it was in an uncorrected state in exchange for an unbiased review. As such, I will not be covering any technical aspects.
Who is Dale Berra? If you're not familiar with baseball, he's Yogi Berra's son. If you're a baseball fan, he's Yogi Berra's son. He wouldn't have it any other way.
Dale is more than that though. He's a husband, father, son, brother and former ball player. He was raised in Montclair, New Jersey by his parents Yogi and Carmen. They had three boys; Larry, Tim and Dale. They were all gifted with athleticism and a competitive nature. Dale is the youngest, but his life wasn't one on Easy Street. Sure, he and his brothers were maybe given more than other kids their age but they weren't spoiled. Yogi wouldn't have allowed that. He wanted them to earn everything that came to them. It was a lesson that they learned well. This is the story of learning that lesson and many others.
Yogi was born Lorenzo Pietro Berra, (later anglicized to Lawrence Peter) in St. Louis to parents Pietro and Paolina. They believed in hard work, honesty, and respect. They taught those lessons and Yogi absorbed them and would later teach them in his Yogi way to his own family. He served in the Navy and was a part of D-Day as a Gunner's Mate. He was even wounded and awarded a medal but he never bragged about those things. He never bragged about anything. It just wasn't part of his personality.
More famously though, he was a Yankee. The Yankee some would say. He played and coached throughout his career. He won championships and coached players as they were coming up.
Dale tells his father's story while telling his own. He is listed as the sole author but typical of older brother's, Larry and Tim chime in occasionally. They add a bit of color to a book that is, in the beginning, a bit dry due to an abundance of game stats and not enough of himself. Later, his daughter contributes to and enriches the story with her view of things.
Eventually, he begins to include stories of his upbringing, We find that Yogi parented in a strict but very hands-off way. He didn't show his affection in the traditional ways but his sons always knew they were loved. He wanted them to learn by doing, and earn the legacy that is his name. He never handed them anything he didn't feel they earned.
Dale wasn't a perfect man. He had his shortcomings and he's honest about them, recounting his drug addiction and the legal troubles that followed. He takes the blame for his failed marriage and his daughter's troubled childhood. He covers his drug use in a superficial way but that was the way he dealt with it in real life too, even after facing court proceedings. He didn't feel like he was out of control - until his family held an intervention. It was shocking and enough of a kick in the pants to set him on the right path.
He tells many stories that include the feud between George Steinbrenner and Yogi and how it was ultimately resolved. He tells about the creation of Yogi's museum. He gives us interesting tidbits ie. a ferry named after Yogi was the first boat to save passengers when Sully Sullenberger landed the plane in the Hudson. He also name drops throughout but not in a gossipy way. He merely mentions people dropping by or being invited to things like they were commonplace because they were. This isn't the story of DiMaggio or Mantle but they're included. So many other famous names are too but it would take an hour to list them all. You don't read this book for those names though so I'll skip it.
Can I recommend this book? Yes, very easily.
Who is Dale Berra? If you're not familiar with baseball, he's Yogi Berra's son. If you're a baseball fan, he's Yogi Berra's son. He wouldn't have it any other way.
Dale is more than that though. He's a husband, father, son, brother and former ball player. He was raised in Montclair, New Jersey by his parents Yogi and Carmen. They had three boys; Larry, Tim and Dale. They were all gifted with athleticism and a competitive nature. Dale is the youngest, but his life wasn't one on Easy Street. Sure, he and his brothers were maybe given more than other kids their age but they weren't spoiled. Yogi wouldn't have allowed that. He wanted them to earn everything that came to them. It was a lesson that they learned well. This is the story of learning that lesson and many others.
Yogi was born Lorenzo Pietro Berra, (later anglicized to Lawrence Peter) in St. Louis to parents Pietro and Paolina. They believed in hard work, honesty, and respect. They taught those lessons and Yogi absorbed them and would later teach them in his Yogi way to his own family. He served in the Navy and was a part of D-Day as a Gunner's Mate. He was even wounded and awarded a medal but he never bragged about those things. He never bragged about anything. It just wasn't part of his personality.
More famously though, he was a Yankee. The Yankee some would say. He played and coached throughout his career. He won championships and coached players as they were coming up.
Dale tells his father's story while telling his own. He is listed as the sole author but typical of older brother's, Larry and Tim chime in occasionally. They add a bit of color to a book that is, in the beginning, a bit dry due to an abundance of game stats and not enough of himself. Later, his daughter contributes to and enriches the story with her view of things.
Eventually, he begins to include stories of his upbringing, We find that Yogi parented in a strict but very hands-off way. He didn't show his affection in the traditional ways but his sons always knew they were loved. He wanted them to learn by doing, and earn the legacy that is his name. He never handed them anything he didn't feel they earned.
Dale wasn't a perfect man. He had his shortcomings and he's honest about them, recounting his drug addiction and the legal troubles that followed. He takes the blame for his failed marriage and his daughter's troubled childhood. He covers his drug use in a superficial way but that was the way he dealt with it in real life too, even after facing court proceedings. He didn't feel like he was out of control - until his family held an intervention. It was shocking and enough of a kick in the pants to set him on the right path.
He tells many stories that include the feud between George Steinbrenner and Yogi and how it was ultimately resolved. He tells about the creation of Yogi's museum. He gives us interesting tidbits ie. a ferry named after Yogi was the first boat to save passengers when Sully Sullenberger landed the plane in the Hudson. He also name drops throughout but not in a gossipy way. He merely mentions people dropping by or being invited to things like they were commonplace because they were. This isn't the story of DiMaggio or Mantle but they're included. So many other famous names are too but it would take an hour to list them all. You don't read this book for those names though so I'll skip it.
Can I recommend this book? Yes, very easily.
May 26, 2019
In an open and honest look, Dale Berra looks at his life as being the son of famed Yankees' catcher Yogi Berra and his addiction to cocaine early in his own pro baseball career. That addiction, Dale admits, is what cut short his tenure in the big leagues.
Much of the book is about Dale Berra, but I think he sets that up to show his father's reactions to his career and his decisions, both good and bad. The loss Dale sees through cocaine use is mirrored by his father when Yogi and the family call for an intervention. Yogi actually tells his son if he doesn't immediately quit using drugs, he is out of the family.
Dale is named by Yogi after Dale Mitchell - the Dodger who struck out in Game 5 of the World Series to lock Yankees' pitcher Don Larsen's perfect game. In the iconic moment after that strike out, Yogi ran to Larsen and leapt onto him; the photo of Berra wrapped around Larsen is a classic. Baseball is ingrained in Dale at birth. He was the only one of the three sons who made it in baseball; despite his less than stellar career in the bigs, Dale had an outstanding minor league career and in 1979 played in 123 games with the eventual Series winner, Pittsburgh Pirates.
(A side note about drugs and that Series. I was a sophomore in college that year and lived in a small trailer park. A neighbor who was a massive pothead asked me to watch Game 7 with him. Since I had no cable television and was born in Pittsburgh, I took him up on it. It was Game 7, after all. The neighbor was pretty stoned by the sixth inning of the game when Willie Stargell came to bat. "He's due for another home run," I said just before he launched one out of Memorial Stadium. The pothead was stunned and thought I was able to predict the future and kept asking me what was going to happen next. Ah, the mind of a druggie).
Dale also explains the rift between George Steinbrenner and Yogi. That was covered well in Bill Madden's bio on Steinbrenner, "The Last Lion of Baseball," but Dale shows the more personal side of Yogi's and his family's decision to shun Steinbrenner for years. The resolution is touching.
Also touching is the ending of both Yogi's and Carmen's lives. It's hard reading, considering all of our impressions of him are from action on the baseball field or, after his retirement, advertisements. It's heart-breaking reading of Yogi fearing falls and all.
Whether you like the Yankees or not, Dale's memoir on his father is a good read full of baseball anecdotes and stories of a father's unconditional love.
Much of the book is about Dale Berra, but I think he sets that up to show his father's reactions to his career and his decisions, both good and bad. The loss Dale sees through cocaine use is mirrored by his father when Yogi and the family call for an intervention. Yogi actually tells his son if he doesn't immediately quit using drugs, he is out of the family.
Dale is named by Yogi after Dale Mitchell - the Dodger who struck out in Game 5 of the World Series to lock Yankees' pitcher Don Larsen's perfect game. In the iconic moment after that strike out, Yogi ran to Larsen and leapt onto him; the photo of Berra wrapped around Larsen is a classic. Baseball is ingrained in Dale at birth. He was the only one of the three sons who made it in baseball; despite his less than stellar career in the bigs, Dale had an outstanding minor league career and in 1979 played in 123 games with the eventual Series winner, Pittsburgh Pirates.
(A side note about drugs and that Series. I was a sophomore in college that year and lived in a small trailer park. A neighbor who was a massive pothead asked me to watch Game 7 with him. Since I had no cable television and was born in Pittsburgh, I took him up on it. It was Game 7, after all. The neighbor was pretty stoned by the sixth inning of the game when Willie Stargell came to bat. "He's due for another home run," I said just before he launched one out of Memorial Stadium. The pothead was stunned and thought I was able to predict the future and kept asking me what was going to happen next. Ah, the mind of a druggie).
Dale also explains the rift between George Steinbrenner and Yogi. That was covered well in Bill Madden's bio on Steinbrenner, "The Last Lion of Baseball," but Dale shows the more personal side of Yogi's and his family's decision to shun Steinbrenner for years. The resolution is touching.
Also touching is the ending of both Yogi's and Carmen's lives. It's hard reading, considering all of our impressions of him are from action on the baseball field or, after his retirement, advertisements. It's heart-breaking reading of Yogi fearing falls and all.
Whether you like the Yankees or not, Dale's memoir on his father is a good read full of baseball anecdotes and stories of a father's unconditional love.
May 17, 2019
Even if you are not a baseball fan, Yogi Berra’s colorful expressions of twisted logic probably have a place in your memory. His “déjà vu all over again,” which brought laughter when he originated it, has become stale from the many repetitions. A couple I enjoyed were “Slump? I ain’t in no slump. I just ain’t hitting,” and “If the world was perfect, it wouldn’t be.” Any number of sources will take you to his life as a ball player and manager and those Yogi-isms. His son Dale Berra in My Dad, Yogi, with contributions from his brothers and daughter, takes you behind the scenes to see the patriarch of the Berra family.
My interest in the book offered by Net Galley in an advance reading copy came from years of listening to the radio as my father followed his favorite team, the New York Yankees. I never figured out how this Mississippi country preacher formed this loyalty, but he was a Yogi fan and loved his picturesque expressions. Dale does not skip over these or the baseball in his father’s life and his own, but he goes beyond to see Yogi the man and particularly the father.
An unassuming family life with his strong beloved wife Carmen and their three sons in New Jersey had a normalcy to it in the off seasons with the sons following their father into baseball as they matured. Names like Joe Garagiola, Mickey Mantle, Joe DiMaggio, and Whitey Ford were friends rather than celebrities to the family. Dale’s drug problems in the midst of a promising career threw a curve ball into the mix with Yogi providing support with a tough love intervention that helped him turn his life around.
My favorite new Yogism came as Yogi attended more than a few funerals, “You should always go to other people’s funerals. Otherwise, they won’t come to yours.” I’m thinking the fact that his funeral was well attended had more to do with the lovable man than to his attendance at other burials.
The book is a good read for baseball fans (or their daughters) but also for those who are interested in the family dynamics of people who live celebrity lives or those who need to help a child entrapped in addiction. Speedreading through the baseball accounts is an option for those who are not fans.
My interest in the book offered by Net Galley in an advance reading copy came from years of listening to the radio as my father followed his favorite team, the New York Yankees. I never figured out how this Mississippi country preacher formed this loyalty, but he was a Yogi fan and loved his picturesque expressions. Dale does not skip over these or the baseball in his father’s life and his own, but he goes beyond to see Yogi the man and particularly the father.
An unassuming family life with his strong beloved wife Carmen and their three sons in New Jersey had a normalcy to it in the off seasons with the sons following their father into baseball as they matured. Names like Joe Garagiola, Mickey Mantle, Joe DiMaggio, and Whitey Ford were friends rather than celebrities to the family. Dale’s drug problems in the midst of a promising career threw a curve ball into the mix with Yogi providing support with a tough love intervention that helped him turn his life around.
My favorite new Yogism came as Yogi attended more than a few funerals, “You should always go to other people’s funerals. Otherwise, they won’t come to yours.” I’m thinking the fact that his funeral was well attended had more to do with the lovable man than to his attendance at other burials.
The book is a good read for baseball fans (or their daughters) but also for those who are interested in the family dynamics of people who live celebrity lives or those who need to help a child entrapped in addiction. Speedreading through the baseball accounts is an option for those who are not fans.
April 27, 2023
I have a number of books about Yogi Berra, a number by Yogi himself. Those books mainly concern his great career or his famous "Yogi-isms". Some concern his later years, such as Ron Guidry's "Driving Mr. Yogi". This book, by his son Dale, shows Yogi at home with his wife, children and grandchildren. Dale wasn't born until 1956, and in fact was named after Dale Mitchell after he struck out to end Don Larsen's perfect game that October. Because of this, Dale's memories of his father are mostly after his playing career ended. Yogi's two older sons offer some insights as well, but basically the book concerns Yogi's post playing career. The book paints a thorough picture of Yogi the father and husband. We see Yogi as a loving father but one who taught his boys the value of hard work and loyality. A lot of the book concerns Dale Berra's baseball career and his cocaine addiction. Yogi supported his son until numerous lapses caused him to act, telling Dale that if he kept using he would no longer be his son and he would no longer have a family. That jolt did the trick and Dale has been sober since. Dale was a major league infielder but never a star, though he believes he could have been had he not used cocaine. Perhaps, though Dale may be over inflating his career a little. The book also covers Yogi's return to Yankee Stadium after a number of years apart. This is a very good book, giving us a great look at the off the field Yogi but also covering his great career as well. "Driving Mr. Yogi" gives a closer look at Yogi in the last decades of his life but overall this book does a good job covering his entire adult life. Highly recommend it for all Yogi fans (and who isn't) and all baseball fans alike.
August 3, 2019
“My dad, Yogi” by Dale Berra
What a wonderful book. Part memoir and part autobiography, Dale Berra brings to life the man many still deem a baseball icon and legend. He tells the story of Yogi Berra, not just as a baseball player, teammate and manager; but as a husband, son, brother, and father. Told from Dale’s perspective, with his brother’s Timmy and Larry adding in excerpts, the reader gets an all encompassing picture of Yogi Berra, the man.
If one is familiar with baseball to a small degree, they have most likely heard the name Yogi Berra, if for no other reason than his Yogi-isms. For avid baseball follower, Yogi is not only an exceptional baseball player, but a true American icon that so many have fallen in love with, both due to his skills as a player and all he accomplished outside of baseball. A man who loved the game, but loved his family more. A many who had odd phrases, at times, but ones that made him more human. A wonderful man who never flaunted his talent on or off the field. He was just...himself: Yogi Berra. A man who stuck to his beliefs and was not afraid to speak up, yet loved by anyone who ever met him. A man of quiet dignity, thus always received respect as a player, teammate, husband and father.
“My dad, Yogi,” is a fantastic read for anyone slightly familiar with the name, Yogi Berra, and for any lover of baseball who has admired him up close and from afar. This memoir will not disappoint, that I can guarantee.
Rating: 5.0
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this novel. All thoughts and ratings are strictly my own.
What a wonderful book. Part memoir and part autobiography, Dale Berra brings to life the man many still deem a baseball icon and legend. He tells the story of Yogi Berra, not just as a baseball player, teammate and manager; but as a husband, son, brother, and father. Told from Dale’s perspective, with his brother’s Timmy and Larry adding in excerpts, the reader gets an all encompassing picture of Yogi Berra, the man.
If one is familiar with baseball to a small degree, they have most likely heard the name Yogi Berra, if for no other reason than his Yogi-isms. For avid baseball follower, Yogi is not only an exceptional baseball player, but a true American icon that so many have fallen in love with, both due to his skills as a player and all he accomplished outside of baseball. A man who loved the game, but loved his family more. A many who had odd phrases, at times, but ones that made him more human. A wonderful man who never flaunted his talent on or off the field. He was just...himself: Yogi Berra. A man who stuck to his beliefs and was not afraid to speak up, yet loved by anyone who ever met him. A man of quiet dignity, thus always received respect as a player, teammate, husband and father.
“My dad, Yogi,” is a fantastic read for anyone slightly familiar with the name, Yogi Berra, and for any lover of baseball who has admired him up close and from afar. This memoir will not disappoint, that I can guarantee.
Rating: 5.0
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this novel. All thoughts and ratings are strictly my own.
November 29, 2018
Netgalley provided me with a DRC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am a die-hard Yankees fan. Like...I did my senior research project in high school about the history of the New York Yankees, and so choosing to read this book was an easy decision.
As one of the most quoted and lovable athletes in MLB history, I didn’t know if there would be more to learn, but I was so enthralled by all the stories and precious, personal details in this book.
It was humorous and poignant and admirable...my only complaint is that it was a bit self-serving in the tone, at times, focusing on Dale more than Yogi...and we all know why people will pick up this book.
For example, “Those diversions aside, my entire teenage existence was really a launching pad for my sports career. I started in three sports as a freshman. A guy named Connie Egan was my baseball coach at Montclair High, and he guided me along, though my favorite sport was—and still is—hockey. Love to play it, love to watch it. Played it since I was seven. And we had a great hockey team. I played left wing and could move, loved to fire shots.”
But I became addicted to the inside details and conversations in the book, especially those about his managing days and his clashes with management. This is the stuff super-fans will buy the book for, ““I’m playing Mattingly at first and I’m playing Pags at third,” he said. “And if you don’t like it”—now he picked up a pack of matches and threw it across the desk—“f—-ing fire me.” Then he strode out of the room.”
A great book for true baseball fans.
I am a die-hard Yankees fan. Like...I did my senior research project in high school about the history of the New York Yankees, and so choosing to read this book was an easy decision.
As one of the most quoted and lovable athletes in MLB history, I didn’t know if there would be more to learn, but I was so enthralled by all the stories and precious, personal details in this book.
It was humorous and poignant and admirable...my only complaint is that it was a bit self-serving in the tone, at times, focusing on Dale more than Yogi...and we all know why people will pick up this book.
For example, “Those diversions aside, my entire teenage existence was really a launching pad for my sports career. I started in three sports as a freshman. A guy named Connie Egan was my baseball coach at Montclair High, and he guided me along, though my favorite sport was—and still is—hockey. Love to play it, love to watch it. Played it since I was seven. And we had a great hockey team. I played left wing and could move, loved to fire shots.”
But I became addicted to the inside details and conversations in the book, especially those about his managing days and his clashes with management. This is the stuff super-fans will buy the book for, ““I’m playing Mattingly at first and I’m playing Pags at third,” he said. “And if you don’t like it”—now he picked up a pack of matches and threw it across the desk—“f—-ing fire me.” Then he strode out of the room.”
A great book for true baseball fans.
May 28, 2019
My Dad. Yogi is written by Yogi's youngest son, Dale Berra. Dale and his brothers, Larry and Tim talk about what it was like growing up with Yogi as a father. The book focuses on his childhood,family, his time in the military, his playing days, his time as a manager and a coach. Though Dale talks about his father's career as a Baseball player (which is of course how everyone know him) he also talk about Yogi as a father. You can see how much love and respect his sons all have for him. Dale and his brothers mention growing up that the never viewed their dad as a the baseball legend. When Yogi was home it was all about family and baseball was left "at work". Because of that the boys never used the Berra name as an in when it came to their professional careers. Through out the book Dale also tells a lot about his time in majors. He also mentions his struggle with cocaine and his dad supported him all along. And how it came down his father telling him to get his life together or he was no longer part of the family because he couldn't have both.
I loved reading all the different stories about Yogi. My only complaint is how much for Dale's story took over the book. With that being said it's still a great read and a very touching tribute to a great father and great baseball player. It definitely had me getting teary eyed at the end. I definitely recommended it for any baseball fan!
*Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ebook in exchange for my honest review*
I loved reading all the different stories about Yogi. My only complaint is how much for Dale's story took over the book. With that being said it's still a great read and a very touching tribute to a great father and great baseball player. It definitely had me getting teary eyed at the end. I definitely recommended it for any baseball fan!
*Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ebook in exchange for my honest review*
October 9, 2018
As someone who grew up with the Big Red Machine, I really did not know anything about Yogi Berra besides his "isms" and had never heard of Dale Berra.
Throughout the book, Dale's love for his father shown through. Yes, it is a baseball book. But it is more than that - family love, competition, addiction. I enjoyed the reflections/retrospects from Dale's two brothers, Larry and Tim. All three sons bring the legend to life and gave the personal side of Yogi meaning. He was able to set examples for his family, teams, and the industry, much needed in today's environment.
Some hardcore baseball fans may want more about the Yankees and Yogi with additional "dirt." Others will want more focus on Dale, his and daughter's addictions and how that impacted the family. Others, like me, will want a balance and perspective that a son can do.
This book is good for the person who not only enjoys baseball but wants to learn about someone who is bigger than life and realize he was a father who was a good man and set an example who happened to excel in baseball and his son growing up in that environment.
Thank you NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Throughout the book, Dale's love for his father shown through. Yes, it is a baseball book. But it is more than that - family love, competition, addiction. I enjoyed the reflections/retrospects from Dale's two brothers, Larry and Tim. All three sons bring the legend to life and gave the personal side of Yogi meaning. He was able to set examples for his family, teams, and the industry, much needed in today's environment.
Some hardcore baseball fans may want more about the Yankees and Yogi with additional "dirt." Others will want more focus on Dale, his and daughter's addictions and how that impacted the family. Others, like me, will want a balance and perspective that a son can do.
This book is good for the person who not only enjoys baseball but wants to learn about someone who is bigger than life and realize he was a father who was a good man and set an example who happened to excel in baseball and his son growing up in that environment.
Thank you NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2018
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Let me start off by saying that I felt it was the perfect book to read in October with the MLB playoffs going on. I'm an avid baseball/Milwaukee Brewers fan so it made the book a little more fun to read.
Is this the best written book? No. It is a "celebrity" memoir. It is not meant to be deep like War and Peace. Is it entertaining? Yes.
Growing up I remember Yogi Berra from some of his coaching days. I didn't know that his son, Dale, played as well. I thought the book provided an interesting glimpse into Yogi and Dale's lives. Dale's struggles with drugs was interesting as I kinda remember that scandal back in the day.
I think the stories about Yogi and his playing days were fascinating. It is always neat to read about sports figures who have such interesting lives and yet remain humble. You don;t see that often in today's sports world.
While I knew how the book would end (Yogi dies), it was still sad to hear how he declined in his later years and brought tears to my eyes.
I would totally recommend this for the baseball fan.
Let me start off by saying that I felt it was the perfect book to read in October with the MLB playoffs going on. I'm an avid baseball/Milwaukee Brewers fan so it made the book a little more fun to read.
Is this the best written book? No. It is a "celebrity" memoir. It is not meant to be deep like War and Peace. Is it entertaining? Yes.
Growing up I remember Yogi Berra from some of his coaching days. I didn't know that his son, Dale, played as well. I thought the book provided an interesting glimpse into Yogi and Dale's lives. Dale's struggles with drugs was interesting as I kinda remember that scandal back in the day.
I think the stories about Yogi and his playing days were fascinating. It is always neat to read about sports figures who have such interesting lives and yet remain humble. You don;t see that often in today's sports world.
While I knew how the book would end (Yogi dies), it was still sad to hear how he declined in his later years and brought tears to my eyes.
I would totally recommend this for the baseball fan.
May 26, 2021
Dale Berra talks about himself as well as his family, and the book contains some quotes from the other family members too. As he was born around the time when his father's base ball playing career was winding down, the book necessarily covers mainly the part of his father's life after that time. He gives an account of his own life and what he knew about his parent's backgrounds and attitudes.
Larry Berra grew up in a poor family, and had to send his family money when he worked, as his uncles did. His father did not want him to play baseball, but his uncles made him relent, and Larry did play professionally, interrupted by World War Two service, and proved to have a special physique which allowed him to almost always hit the ball as well as catch it when he was in the field. He enjoyed baseball but never neglected his wife and three sons. In fact, all his sons were athletic, but only Dale went into professional baseball as well.
The book is not too long and does not go back and forth in an annoying manner, and the author is careful to not overdo baseball terminology. Highly recommended, even if you are not a baseball fanatic.
Larry Berra grew up in a poor family, and had to send his family money when he worked, as his uncles did. His father did not want him to play baseball, but his uncles made him relent, and Larry did play professionally, interrupted by World War Two service, and proved to have a special physique which allowed him to almost always hit the ball as well as catch it when he was in the field. He enjoyed baseball but never neglected his wife and three sons. In fact, all his sons were athletic, but only Dale went into professional baseball as well.
The book is not too long and does not go back and forth in an annoying manner, and the author is careful to not overdo baseball terminology. Highly recommended, even if you are not a baseball fanatic.
April 30, 2020
This book was really about Dale Berra, his life growing up with his brothers, getting into the big leagues his drug addiction, and then some about his father. What I really took out of this book was about his mother Carmen, how she and Yogi met and got together though I have read that before it was good to read it again. Also, about a wife and mother keeping the family together and wanting the best for her boys. She really wanted to help Dale by doing an intervention when he was arrested for drugs and it just goes to show you that the drugs do not just affect the person taking them but everyone around them as well.
I knew most of the things that he wrote about. I remember when he played for the Pirates and the Yankees. I also remember when he was arrested for drugs. It was good to hear about the friendships he made along the way from the time his father was a manger from different teams. I guess I was just hoping for something more. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 3 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
I knew most of the things that he wrote about. I remember when he played for the Pirates and the Yankees. I also remember when he was arrested for drugs. It was good to hear about the friendships he made along the way from the time his father was a manger from different teams. I guess I was just hoping for something more. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 3 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
August 28, 2023
There can be no doubt that Yogi Berra is a baseball icon. Not only was he a legendary hitter, but he was also a character who is remembered for his many 'Yogi-isms'. This book was written by his youngest son, Dale, and provides a unique glimpse into the life and times of a baseball great. Halfway through the book, however, Dale switched gears and began detailing his life in baseball and his years of drug addiction. The many stats that he quoted became a bit tiresome, and some of the names he dropped were unknown to me. I would have preferred that he focused mainly on his father (and mother) with his own story being incidental instead of up front and center. With all of that aside, the thought of Yogi Berra always makes me smile. Dale reinforced what I already thought--his father was a humble man who loved what he did for a living. He was a dedicated family man and is still sorely missed by his three sons. His passing in 2015 at the age of 90 marked the end of an era for baseball. It also brought a tear to my eye.
October 5, 2018
Thank you, NetGalley, for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really wasn't sure what to expect from this book, and the intro further confused me. I wasn't sure if it would be about Yogi or Dale, and I wasn't sure I wanted to read the latter. Luckily it was tipped in favor of Yogi and I liked Yogi through Dale's lens. I'm young enough that while I'm familiar with Dale's truncated career, I didn't get to watch him play. I certainly knew of those others whose careers were impacted by drugs.
Overall a well written book. Some common stories, but a good chunk of this was new to me as well-read Yankees fan. I also like what Dale's brothers and daughter brought to the story with their memories if their (grand)father.
I'd recommend this to baseball fans, and even non fans. It's an accessible and interesting book.
I really wasn't sure what to expect from this book, and the intro further confused me. I wasn't sure if it would be about Yogi or Dale, and I wasn't sure I wanted to read the latter. Luckily it was tipped in favor of Yogi and I liked Yogi through Dale's lens. I'm young enough that while I'm familiar with Dale's truncated career, I didn't get to watch him play. I certainly knew of those others whose careers were impacted by drugs.
Overall a well written book. Some common stories, but a good chunk of this was new to me as well-read Yankees fan. I also like what Dale's brothers and daughter brought to the story with their memories if their (grand)father.
I'd recommend this to baseball fans, and even non fans. It's an accessible and interesting book.
April 4, 2019
Ths book was not quite what I expected so it was a bit disappointing. While there is some baseball involved, it is more about the events in the author's life highlighting the highs and lows. One thing that was interesting was the author adding comments from his siblings in the chapters so it was not just his view of events.
I am neutral on a recommendation of this book. It will be disappointing for hardcore baseball fans, but may hold some appeal for the more casual or nonfan of the game.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Net Galley, Goodreads, Amazon and my fiction book review blog. I also posted it to my Facebook and Twitter pages.
I am neutral on a recommendation of this book. It will be disappointing for hardcore baseball fans, but may hold some appeal for the more casual or nonfan of the game.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Net Galley, Goodreads, Amazon and my fiction book review blog. I also posted it to my Facebook and Twitter pages.
November 12, 2020
Dale Berra's book is really a dual story about the lives and baseball careers of both Yogi and Dale. I thought it was wonderful. The book is concise and plainly written. It is chock-full of anecdotes and stories, all very much enjoyable. The book does forthrightly go into some detail of Dale's cocaine issues, but I believe that only adds depth and richness to the entire book. I must say that I prejudged this book with lower expectations. But much to my surprise, the matter-of-fact approach to Dale's style was refreshing. I gave it my highest rating because it ticked all of my boxes, and most importantly, my box next to the phrase "I wish the book would not end." It joins just a few books that I have either read or listened to that belong at the top. Much like Yogi belongs at the top.
May 21, 2022
I’m giving this book a solid 3/5.
The book, at the beginning, said it wasn’t about Yogi Berras baseball career, but about his family and who he was. And it was about that, but also a lot of very specific baseball facts.
I couldn’t 100% sure if the focus was supposed to be on Dale, Yogi, or Dale’s drug addiction. I sort of felt the book needed a little bit more substance.
I’ve said this before, but sometimes books written about or by celebrities are too specific for me. The details of this baseball series, this one teammate’s stats, lots of names I don’t know. It’s hard to stay engaged when what’s written on the page don’t mean much to you.
Yogi Berra is a great baseball player and was obviously an incredible person, I just wish the book was a tad bit better.
The book, at the beginning, said it wasn’t about Yogi Berras baseball career, but about his family and who he was. And it was about that, but also a lot of very specific baseball facts.
I couldn’t 100% sure if the focus was supposed to be on Dale, Yogi, or Dale’s drug addiction. I sort of felt the book needed a little bit more substance.
I’ve said this before, but sometimes books written about or by celebrities are too specific for me. The details of this baseball series, this one teammate’s stats, lots of names I don’t know. It’s hard to stay engaged when what’s written on the page don’t mean much to you.
Yogi Berra is a great baseball player and was obviously an incredible person, I just wish the book was a tad bit better.
March 11, 2024
This is a book that is not just about baseball. It also deals with good parenting, the scourge of addiction and how much we need the support of those who we love. As a fellow Montclairite I was extremely interested in reading about Dale Berra’s life story. Yes, as an avid baseball fan, I was interested in the stories of his baseball career and the managerial career of his father. But what struck me the most were the parenting skills of his parents. They loved him and supported him. Yes there were times of tough love but they always supported him. This is a homage to his parents. It reminds us of who we should be. Dale Berra pulls no punches about what he did. That is another lesson he learned growing up in the Berra household.
November 12, 2019
This is a great honor to THE Yogi Berra from his youngest son Dale for all baseball fans but it’s also a great homemage to family and friends. It digs deep into what celebrity life and expectations are like for the “star” but also for the children. How the children were encouraged to all play sports and go pro. How pressures were handled and how family and friends were deemed most importantly. I wish players could read this today and realize what’s important, family not the money!
April 29, 2021
Best Yankee-related book I have ever read. Yogi was just Yogi, and Dale portrayed him beautifully.
There are many stories and descriptions of Yogi that should be absolutely new to most people.
I read a lot, and it's been awhile since I've enjoyed a book as much as this one. I feel like I'm part of the Berra family, and I'm really not in any way except having just read a tremendous book about Yogi.
There are many stories and descriptions of Yogi that should be absolutely new to most people.
I read a lot, and it's been awhile since I've enjoyed a book as much as this one. I feel like I'm part of the Berra family, and I'm really not in any way except having just read a tremendous book about Yogi.
July 19, 2019
Very enjoyable book about a Yankee legend. Heartwarming read about a great baseball player, Father, and friend to all. It was nice to rehash all the stories and players that Yogi was a part of. Also, nice to feel the love and respect that his sons had for him. I had many memories of being a Yankee fan rekindled and a fun time with this book. Great job Dale!
October 27, 2023
This was a good enough book, but if you would like to learn more about Yogi Berra, this is not the book to for you. I felt like most of this book was about Dale Barra, and especially his drug problems. Lots of inside baseball stuff, including recaps of games. I did enjoy reading about how close their family was.
November 24, 2025
I read this because my dad would have read this, and I loved it. Dale has a great voice, talking about a wonderful person, in conversation with his brothers. Really well-organized, and gives a great insight to major league baseball in the 1960s-80s. Thanks for this view into my 1951 dad's past love of baseball.
August 30, 2019
This is a well-written book by a son of a baseball legend. As the title indicates, it is not all Yogi, as Dale gets into his own personal life and career. It is an enjoyable read for those not too familiar with Yogi.
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