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On the Line
One of the biggest stars in tennis, Serena Williams has captured every major title. Her 2009 Australia Open championship earned her the #1 world ranking for the third time in her illustrious career - and marked only the latest exclamation point on a life well and purposefully lived. As a young girl, Serena began training with an adult-sized racquet that was almost as big as her. Rather than dropping the racquet, Serena saw it as a challenge to overcome-and she has confronted every obstacle on her path to success with the same unflagging spirit. From growing up in the tough, hardscrabble neighborhood of Compton, California, to being trained by her father on public tennis courts littered with broken glass and drug paraphernalia, to becoming the top women's player in the world, Serena has proven to be an inspiration to her legions of fans both young and old. Her accomplishments have not been without being derailed by injury, devastated by the tragic shooting of her older sister, and criticized for her unorthodox approach to tennis. Yet somehow, Serena always manages to prevail. Both on the court and off, she's applied the strength and determination that helped her to become a champion to successful pursuits in philanthropy, fashion, television and film. In this compelling and poignant memoir, Serena takes an empowering look at her extraordinary life and what is still to come.
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First published September 1, 2009
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February 7, 2017
One week ago, Serena Williams won the Australian Open to capture her twenty third Grand Slam title, only needing one more title to set a modern record. Eight years ago, after coming back from injuries and winning the U.S. Open, she penned her memoirs with collaborator Daniel Paisner. Although it does not have encompass her entire career or set marks for literary canon, On the Line is a fun read and appropriate for African American History Month.
In the 1970s, Richard Williams watched a lot of women's tennis on television. One day, so the story goes, it dawned on him that women could earn $40,000 for winning a tennis tournament. Already the father to three girls, he told his wife that they should have two more daughters who they raise from birth to be tennis champions. So goes the legend of both Venus and Serena Williams. Richard Williams trained both daughters himself until they were old enough to enter tournaments and find footing on their own. When they finally could join the professional ranks, both sisters shot up the charts and are there to this day.
It would be easy to say that both sisters became instant champions. They faced their share of hardships growing up in Compton, California. The only two African American girls on local tennis circuits, they had to practice on local, beat up courts, where they often heard gun shots from a distance. The country clubs did not want to consider the Williams family in their inner circles because of their race, so they had to work extra hard to not only establish themselves, but to be champions. Along the way, they met the few women of color who had played before them and have become role models for young girls of color who are looking to dream big.
Even after earning a place on the Women's Tennis Association, Serena saw race rear its ugly head at the Indian Wells tournament. Being called n- by tournament attendees and treated poorly by officials, both Williams sisters vowed to never play at this event again. For a younger generation athlete, Serena Williams understands the hardships those before her had to go through in order that she can play tennis professionally today. In addition to giving clinics in inner cities, she has leant her name to two schools in Africa so that children there should be allowed to have a chance in life.
One win away from being officially called the greatest tennis player of all time, Serena Williams is also an accomplished clothing designer and aspiring actress. By penning memoirs in the middle of her career, Williams offers her fans a glimpse into her life that has seen its share of both triumphs and set backs. I give both Williams parents credit for raising their five daughters to play a sport where few people of color have succeeded. Their participation became a family affair and the girls have achieved beyond perhaps even their father's wildest dreams.
In terms of athlete's memoirs, On the Line is on par with the majority of them. It is not going to win awards for literary fiction but does offer a glimpse into the life of a super star athlete. An easy read and one I can add to an African American History Month challenge, On The Line averages out to three shining stars.
In the 1970s, Richard Williams watched a lot of women's tennis on television. One day, so the story goes, it dawned on him that women could earn $40,000 for winning a tennis tournament. Already the father to three girls, he told his wife that they should have two more daughters who they raise from birth to be tennis champions. So goes the legend of both Venus and Serena Williams. Richard Williams trained both daughters himself until they were old enough to enter tournaments and find footing on their own. When they finally could join the professional ranks, both sisters shot up the charts and are there to this day.
It would be easy to say that both sisters became instant champions. They faced their share of hardships growing up in Compton, California. The only two African American girls on local tennis circuits, they had to practice on local, beat up courts, where they often heard gun shots from a distance. The country clubs did not want to consider the Williams family in their inner circles because of their race, so they had to work extra hard to not only establish themselves, but to be champions. Along the way, they met the few women of color who had played before them and have become role models for young girls of color who are looking to dream big.
Even after earning a place on the Women's Tennis Association, Serena saw race rear its ugly head at the Indian Wells tournament. Being called n- by tournament attendees and treated poorly by officials, both Williams sisters vowed to never play at this event again. For a younger generation athlete, Serena Williams understands the hardships those before her had to go through in order that she can play tennis professionally today. In addition to giving clinics in inner cities, she has leant her name to two schools in Africa so that children there should be allowed to have a chance in life.
One win away from being officially called the greatest tennis player of all time, Serena Williams is also an accomplished clothing designer and aspiring actress. By penning memoirs in the middle of her career, Williams offers her fans a glimpse into her life that has seen its share of both triumphs and set backs. I give both Williams parents credit for raising their five daughters to play a sport where few people of color have succeeded. Their participation became a family affair and the girls have achieved beyond perhaps even their father's wildest dreams.
In terms of athlete's memoirs, On the Line is on par with the majority of them. It is not going to win awards for literary fiction but does offer a glimpse into the life of a super star athlete. An easy read and one I can add to an African American History Month challenge, On The Line averages out to three shining stars.
February 20, 2022
I liked this better than other tennis autobiographies I read because she doesn't just list the tennis games she played, she opens up about her inner thoughts and fears. Not only that, but she has the courage to be frank about some not so flattering moments, like when she cheats just a bit as a little girl (like all children do, in fact), or takes advantage of her sisters, or acts like a spoiled brat, or cannot find the strength to not act very upset when she lost a final to Venus. These things deserve respect, even if I don’t agree with some of her beliefs, or ideas.
September 30, 2009
I love everything about the U.S. Open except the line calls. ~ Serena Williams
I experienced this past U.S. Open upset of Serena Williams with a different perspective than if I hadn't read her memoir "On the Line." The book is written in Serena's voice. It's personal, it's conversational, and that's why I like it. I enjoyed her reflection on her life thus far.
I have to say that Serena is a spoiled brat, but that observation comes from her directly. She tells stories that curled this big sister's toes of scheming to get her way, cheating, and destroying her sisters' property. In looking back at all that peeking thru her fingers, I respect Serena for her honesty and self-criticism, and I agree with her judgment that she was a horrible little sister!
Serena spends a lot of time defending her father from the criticism he still receives about his coaching style. While her mom was pregnant with Venus, Serena admits her father decided that they would raise two tennis champions, and well, they did. He and Serena's mom taught themselves the game by playing and watching videos then he taught his daughters while they were living in Compton by playing on public courts. Even if the man is a controlling jerk, as some said early in the Williams Sisters career, you have to admit there's no country club pedigree here!
Serena digs deep to tackle the class and racial privilege they smacked into when Venus hit the tennis scene in a chapter on the 2001 Indian Wells tournament. Clearly, the girls were raised with a keen sense of history, especially civil rights history, and I've always admired Venus and Serena both for the way they play and for their tip of the hat to those who came before them.
Serena has a clear sense of racial and gender justice. Not only does Serena spend time discussing race and class, but she addresses all the fat comments she has received over the years. Positive body image is big with her. She understands that, as an internationally known tennis player and someone with more money than most of us will ever know, she has a responsibility to others on many fronts. I didn't follow all the Oprah criticism when the star built a school in Africa, but Serena gives the best response to that criticism I've ever seen by wrapping her justification around a touching story of visiting difference countries in Africa and wanting to do something.
She also lets us in on how much fashion has always played a key part of her and Venus' game. They weren't strong women athletes who "discovered" fashion as a way to sell themselves to the media or fans. They are savvy business women who aren't afraid of taking chances. Along with her sister, Serena will continue to blaze a path for herself and for others.
Even if you aren't a tennis fan or even someone who follows the players closely, we all know that there are some players who make a splash and then disappear or even worse, publicly self-destruct. Pressure and age are often pointed to as the factors as well as pushy parents. It's clear from this memoir that Serena and Venus couldn't have been "The Williams Sisters" without each other. Serena Williams has it all and survives. She did it despite a battle with depression, which she outlines with grace.
Serena haters won't like this book at all, but if you are truly interested in finding out what makes this powerful woman tick, pick up this memoir. It reminds me that Serena's been counted out far too many times and has always come back. She dug herself a hole, but I have faith that she'll redeem herself and silence the critics... again.
I experienced this past U.S. Open upset of Serena Williams with a different perspective than if I hadn't read her memoir "On the Line." The book is written in Serena's voice. It's personal, it's conversational, and that's why I like it. I enjoyed her reflection on her life thus far.
I have to say that Serena is a spoiled brat, but that observation comes from her directly. She tells stories that curled this big sister's toes of scheming to get her way, cheating, and destroying her sisters' property. In looking back at all that peeking thru her fingers, I respect Serena for her honesty and self-criticism, and I agree with her judgment that she was a horrible little sister!
Serena spends a lot of time defending her father from the criticism he still receives about his coaching style. While her mom was pregnant with Venus, Serena admits her father decided that they would raise two tennis champions, and well, they did. He and Serena's mom taught themselves the game by playing and watching videos then he taught his daughters while they were living in Compton by playing on public courts. Even if the man is a controlling jerk, as some said early in the Williams Sisters career, you have to admit there's no country club pedigree here!
Serena digs deep to tackle the class and racial privilege they smacked into when Venus hit the tennis scene in a chapter on the 2001 Indian Wells tournament. Clearly, the girls were raised with a keen sense of history, especially civil rights history, and I've always admired Venus and Serena both for the way they play and for their tip of the hat to those who came before them.
Serena has a clear sense of racial and gender justice. Not only does Serena spend time discussing race and class, but she addresses all the fat comments she has received over the years. Positive body image is big with her. She understands that, as an internationally known tennis player and someone with more money than most of us will ever know, she has a responsibility to others on many fronts. I didn't follow all the Oprah criticism when the star built a school in Africa, but Serena gives the best response to that criticism I've ever seen by wrapping her justification around a touching story of visiting difference countries in Africa and wanting to do something.
She also lets us in on how much fashion has always played a key part of her and Venus' game. They weren't strong women athletes who "discovered" fashion as a way to sell themselves to the media or fans. They are savvy business women who aren't afraid of taking chances. Along with her sister, Serena will continue to blaze a path for herself and for others.
Even if you aren't a tennis fan or even someone who follows the players closely, we all know that there are some players who make a splash and then disappear or even worse, publicly self-destruct. Pressure and age are often pointed to as the factors as well as pushy parents. It's clear from this memoir that Serena and Venus couldn't have been "The Williams Sisters" without each other. Serena Williams has it all and survives. She did it despite a battle with depression, which she outlines with grace.
Serena haters won't like this book at all, but if you are truly interested in finding out what makes this powerful woman tick, pick up this memoir. It reminds me that Serena's been counted out far too many times and has always come back. She dug herself a hole, but I have faith that she'll redeem herself and silence the critics... again.
November 5, 2009
As a huge tennis fan, I figured I would read Serena Williams' "On The Line" at some point, but after her meltdown at this year's US Open, the book quickly went up my to-be-read list. I always find it a bit odd when tennis players release memoirs mid-career, but the Serena certainly had enough material, even if she is still a few more years to go until retirement.
In general, the Williams Sisters have not been terribly forthcoming about their personal lives, generally letting their tennis do all the talking, so it was interesting to read Serena's perspective on things from her humble past, to her controversial father (who she quite lovingly refers to as "Daddy" throughout the book), being a Jehovah's Witness, to some of her most (in)famous on-court moments. Granted the book was released just before the mother of all her on-court moments (this year's (2009) US Open outburst), so some of the recollections are unintentionally funny and/or ironic in that she talks about maintaining good on-court behavior or, if not, learning lessons and hoping not to behave so badly again... ha!
Serena comes across as a spoiled brat, though "diva" would be a word she would more happily embrace. She typically gets what she wants even if it takes some guile or foot-stomping to. This will come as no surprise to tennis fans, but the reason behind it might be a bit more surprising as I found she seems to suffer from a healthy does of insecurity and self-esteem issues, not something one would expect from such a bold personality and/or someone who has risen to the very top spot in her sport. Throughout the book, she asks the reader if some action or emotion is valid with a... "don't you think?" tacked on to the end of the statement. This need for validation was again a bit surprising. Then again, she is human so perhaps just something that one tends to forget when it comes to athletes or celebrities.
That said, Serena is still very selective with what she is willing to share, granted that is her prerogative, but found it a bit frustrating when she put on the brakes. I was stunned that her most successful run in her career was fueled by a romantic break-up. Obviously, Serena viewed it as a very serious and important relationship to her, but for me she didn't explain the reasons why. For me she ends up sounding a tad wacko, even if it was the impetus to one of the great runs in tennis history.
Additionally, the book is a tad tossed together. While I recall most of these events, the non-sequential unfolding of the story might throw some tennis fans (i.e. a chapter about her ultimate boycott of the Indian Wells tournament, followed by later stories of her competing there, though earlier in her career). Also, I thought there were some glaring omissions. All of sudden she seems to have Grand Slam titles or Olympic medals under her belt or I her speaking of how she repeatedly wrote her murdered sister's name in a notebook as inspiration during her comeback Grand Slam win, so odd since she does speak fairly openly of this family tragedy, but does not write this particular notebook story, which at the time (watching it on TV) I found to be very emotional. Finally, I have yet to see a tennis memoir effectively recall the details of a match. The book opens with a mind-numbing, seemingly point-by-point, recount of her 2008 US Open quarterfinal vs. Venus that had me initially worried about the rest of the book.
Overall, an interesting and pretty harmless book that will give you a bit insight into the mind and heart of a champion.
In general, the Williams Sisters have not been terribly forthcoming about their personal lives, generally letting their tennis do all the talking, so it was interesting to read Serena's perspective on things from her humble past, to her controversial father (who she quite lovingly refers to as "Daddy" throughout the book), being a Jehovah's Witness, to some of her most (in)famous on-court moments. Granted the book was released just before the mother of all her on-court moments (this year's (2009) US Open outburst), so some of the recollections are unintentionally funny and/or ironic in that she talks about maintaining good on-court behavior or, if not, learning lessons and hoping not to behave so badly again... ha!
Serena comes across as a spoiled brat, though "diva" would be a word she would more happily embrace. She typically gets what she wants even if it takes some guile or foot-stomping to. This will come as no surprise to tennis fans, but the reason behind it might be a bit more surprising as I found she seems to suffer from a healthy does of insecurity and self-esteem issues, not something one would expect from such a bold personality and/or someone who has risen to the very top spot in her sport. Throughout the book, she asks the reader if some action or emotion is valid with a... "don't you think?" tacked on to the end of the statement. This need for validation was again a bit surprising. Then again, she is human so perhaps just something that one tends to forget when it comes to athletes or celebrities.
That said, Serena is still very selective with what she is willing to share, granted that is her prerogative, but found it a bit frustrating when she put on the brakes. I was stunned that her most successful run in her career was fueled by a romantic break-up. Obviously, Serena viewed it as a very serious and important relationship to her, but for me she didn't explain the reasons why. For me she ends up sounding a tad wacko, even if it was the impetus to one of the great runs in tennis history.
Additionally, the book is a tad tossed together. While I recall most of these events, the non-sequential unfolding of the story might throw some tennis fans (i.e. a chapter about her ultimate boycott of the Indian Wells tournament, followed by later stories of her competing there, though earlier in her career). Also, I thought there were some glaring omissions. All of sudden she seems to have Grand Slam titles or Olympic medals under her belt or I her speaking of how she repeatedly wrote her murdered sister's name in a notebook as inspiration during her comeback Grand Slam win, so odd since she does speak fairly openly of this family tragedy, but does not write this particular notebook story, which at the time (watching it on TV) I found to be very emotional. Finally, I have yet to see a tennis memoir effectively recall the details of a match. The book opens with a mind-numbing, seemingly point-by-point, recount of her 2008 US Open quarterfinal vs. Venus that had me initially worried about the rest of the book.
Overall, an interesting and pretty harmless book that will give you a bit insight into the mind and heart of a champion.
September 27, 2009
I don't know much about tennis but I love reading people's biographies. I love to see where they came from and what it took to get there.
I wasn't aware of Serena's background and how her parents taught all 5 girls to play tennis. Her family is her greatest support.
She is still young so she will have a lot more experiences to write about but I found it very interesting.
I wasn't aware of Serena's background and how her parents taught all 5 girls to play tennis. Her family is her greatest support.
She is still young so she will have a lot more experiences to write about but I found it very interesting.
September 28, 2009
A taste of what day-to-day life is like for an athletic championin in a unique postion to play (professionaly) with and sometimes against her equally talented sister! I think the co-author (Paisner) let Ms. Williams do her own thing in this autiobiography without a lot of screening, which was refreshing. I did catch that Serena says in the book that the quote that "her hometown courts were in such bad areas/condition that there was sometimes drug paraphenalia on them" was a stretch and yet that is written on the inside of the jacket cover. I wonder if Paisner got Ms. Williams ok for that to be worded in that way. She was brave to expose herself in this biography and really let you into her head. What I took from this book is that this is a competitive, coinfident, fiercly loyal, honest & caring person who also happens to be a disciplined athlete. Serena also doesn't claim to have all the answers, be perfect, or give advice. She makes being a champion seem inspirational yet obtainable. She shares with her readers her impressive faith.
This book made me want to know more about her father too! Her Dad seemed ahead of his time in exposing his family to positive affirmations and encouraging them to write their goals for the week. He taught his kids skills and discipline, but made it fun quality time together. I think Serena & Venus's father was a prophet. In the dictionary the defintion of "Prophet" is "prediction of the future under divine inspiration." These women grew up knowing they would be champions. Because of their father they practically ate, drank and breathed "champion"! Her book was dedicated to her father.
I liked that Serena says this book is not a memoir. She says her life so far has been a spring board for many new realms to come. I can't wait to see what she does next!
This book made me want to know more about her father too! Her Dad seemed ahead of his time in exposing his family to positive affirmations and encouraging them to write their goals for the week. He taught his kids skills and discipline, but made it fun quality time together. I think Serena & Venus's father was a prophet. In the dictionary the defintion of "Prophet" is "prediction of the future under divine inspiration." These women grew up knowing they would be champions. Because of their father they practically ate, drank and breathed "champion"! Her book was dedicated to her father.
I liked that Serena says this book is not a memoir. She says her life so far has been a spring board for many new realms to come. I can't wait to see what she does next!
September 25, 2009
The best parts of this book were the stories about Serena and her family. I enjoyed learning about all of her family, not just the members in the public eye (i.e., Venus and her father). Also, it was interesting to learn just how misunderstood Serena's father is and how he "pressured" the girls to do their best ... isn't this what all fathers do? A great insight into Serena's family.
The downsides? Well, let's just say Ms. Williams should keep her day job of playing tennis. I don't think writing is her strong suit. And Daniel Paisner wasn't a great help either. The book has serious typos and grammar issues that are elementary. So ... yeah ... it probably shouldn't have come as a shocker that Ms. Williams is not a writer.
The downsides? Well, let's just say Ms. Williams should keep her day job of playing tennis. I don't think writing is her strong suit. And Daniel Paisner wasn't a great help either. The book has serious typos and grammar issues that are elementary. So ... yeah ... it probably shouldn't have come as a shocker that Ms. Williams is not a writer.
September 21, 2009
I am a life-long tennis player and fan. I have admired both Venus and Serena since they came on the tennis scene. Unfortunately the book arrived the Monday following Serena's embarrassing verbal--and almost physical--attack on a lineswoman at the U.S. Open semifinal match. As I read the book I wondered which was the real Serena--the one who seemed to have successfully escaped a very difficult life to become a superstar admired by people around the world or the selfish, vindictive, foul-mouthed tennis player blaming everyone but herself for her poor performance in the semifinal match. Regardless, the book is an interesting read, well written, and clearly brings out Serena's personality and unrelenting competitiveness. It is worth reading.
September 28, 2009
Picked up this book this weekend at Myrtle Beach. It's not philosophically well-written but it's definitely written from the heart. I didn't follow her career that closely so it's interesting to read her points of view about Indian Wells, the shooting of her sister in Compton, Sept. 11 and her ex-boyfriend, whom she refers to as So-And-So. I just finished the chapter about her trip to Africa and her funding two schools there. I'd recommend this book to folks who won't mind reading raw emotions from an admirable young lady.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2009
This book would definitely be appreciated by the true tennis fan and sports junkies. It is a great insight into how a champion's mind works--the killer instinct, the mental focus and single-minded devotion to the sport and winning at the cost of everything else.
This is also a great insight into Venus and Richard Williams. I have a new respect for both. And of course it is great insider's view of what happened at the infamous Indian Wells tournament that led to the Williams sisters boycott of the tournament.
This is also a great insight into Venus and Richard Williams. I have a new respect for both. And of course it is great insider's view of what happened at the infamous Indian Wells tournament that led to the Williams sisters boycott of the tournament.
October 15, 2009
Well to tell you the truth I was curious when I entered the contest to get this book and I ended up surprised when I read it.
She is not at all what I expected and this book was a really good way to discover someone... not through the lens of a cameras from being in the public eye.
Great read!
She is not at all what I expected and this book was a really good way to discover someone... not through the lens of a cameras from being in the public eye.
Great read!
October 6, 2009
I say she should stick with tennis. It was interesting to learn a few things about her but I didn't get much out of the book. She was pretty repetitive, if I heard how she wanted what Venus has one more time, I was going to scream!
July 27, 2016
Serena Williams is a warrior, there's no doubt about it. I learned quite a lot of new things about her life and career. I think I appreciate her more after gaining a little bit of insight into her life and her thoughts. The Romanian translation of the book was not great, though.
February 22, 2020
Summary: I love these stories of how people achieve their thing. I found great inspiration in her life and admired the grit.
[Kindle no page number thing makes me crazy, so I do this Loc]
Loc. 69 - "Venus tends to strategize a lot more than I do before a match, so I know she'll mix things up... I tend to react more than V, so I plan to be ready for whatever she throws at me."
Loc. 96- When they are working all bets are off for friendship. It's just focus on the game. I love that.
Loc. 237 Although tennis was their way out of Compton, the grace of it was that they did actually develop "a passion for the game and an iron will to succeed."
L. 250 I love how she's describing the courts they grew up on given the context of where they took it. Amazing.
L. 276 - "Daddy collected all his equipment... whatever he could find to make our sessions more like the ones in his books and videos. He really tried to create a professional environment for us on a nothing budget." It's amazing parental dedication. Wow.
L. 328 - Their parents sound awesome. They were told they would be champions at a young age.
L. 391 - You get the impression that she is admiring the beauty of all the other competitors and you know it's b/c at the time the world had a very singular image of what beauty is vs. the fact we all think Serena is beautiful today.
L. 571 - The prima donna behavior is not becoming of champions. I kind of love this. How she describes her thought process then vs what she came to understand is the mind of a champion.
L766 - The story of wanting to play so badly she was willing to incur her dad's wrath is awesome.
L882 - This way of dealing with untruths. What a lesson at such a young age.
L908 No reason to allow the press to tear a family apart. I love how strong these people are together.
L 1070 This story on the match with Kim Clijisters at Indian Wells. Wow. I mean what an athlete to play through that. I think this is the deal. Winners can play through hecklers. They stay focued beyond everything.
L 1481 - So sweet these two sisters. The lunch money story.
L1668 - The Story of Venus playing Sanchez Vicario losing, but being super excited to just get hte experience. wow.
L 1860 - The whole way that her clothing line came to pass is such a good story. Her sister got a deal from Reebok, but being younger, it was just tough. Fascinating!
L1962 - When she was struggling to get the clothing line biz running I love her dad saying:
"Serena, you don't drown by falling into the water, You drown by letting yourself stay there."
L1976 - The importance of feeling valued.
L2260... Tunde, what a sad story.
L2472 - You have to let it go and not let a mistake behind you ruin the moment and hwat's in front of you.
L 2793 - Her time in Africa. I mean, it's just such a crazy amazing life this girl is living.
L 3298 They represented the US in Beijing. Wow. It's all so cool.
L 3368 - I love this idea of a journal for specific events like a tournament. Apparently, they journaled all their life. It's great in retrospect to really capture your ideas and push yourself forward.
L3434 The joint siblings orea match with the manning brothers and oreo.
L 3632 This idea that she beats her sister and she knows her sister can beat the next girl, so the pressure is on.
L 3655 She reiterates an important point about hard work winning the day.
L 3693 So interesting that she's not sure wants to be remembered for tennis.
[Kindle no page number thing makes me crazy, so I do this Loc]
Loc. 69 - "Venus tends to strategize a lot more than I do before a match, so I know she'll mix things up... I tend to react more than V, so I plan to be ready for whatever she throws at me."
Loc. 96- When they are working all bets are off for friendship. It's just focus on the game. I love that.
Loc. 237 Although tennis was their way out of Compton, the grace of it was that they did actually develop "a passion for the game and an iron will to succeed."
L. 250 I love how she's describing the courts they grew up on given the context of where they took it. Amazing.
L. 276 - "Daddy collected all his equipment... whatever he could find to make our sessions more like the ones in his books and videos. He really tried to create a professional environment for us on a nothing budget." It's amazing parental dedication. Wow.
L. 328 - Their parents sound awesome. They were told they would be champions at a young age.
L. 391 - You get the impression that she is admiring the beauty of all the other competitors and you know it's b/c at the time the world had a very singular image of what beauty is vs. the fact we all think Serena is beautiful today.
L. 571 - The prima donna behavior is not becoming of champions. I kind of love this. How she describes her thought process then vs what she came to understand is the mind of a champion.
L766 - The story of wanting to play so badly she was willing to incur her dad's wrath is awesome.
L882 - This way of dealing with untruths. What a lesson at such a young age.
L908 No reason to allow the press to tear a family apart. I love how strong these people are together.
L 1070 This story on the match with Kim Clijisters at Indian Wells. Wow. I mean what an athlete to play through that. I think this is the deal. Winners can play through hecklers. They stay focued beyond everything.
L 1481 - So sweet these two sisters. The lunch money story.
L1668 - The Story of Venus playing Sanchez Vicario losing, but being super excited to just get hte experience. wow.
L 1860 - The whole way that her clothing line came to pass is such a good story. Her sister got a deal from Reebok, but being younger, it was just tough. Fascinating!
L1962 - When she was struggling to get the clothing line biz running I love her dad saying:
"Serena, you don't drown by falling into the water, You drown by letting yourself stay there."
L1976 - The importance of feeling valued.
L2260... Tunde, what a sad story.
L2472 - You have to let it go and not let a mistake behind you ruin the moment and hwat's in front of you.
L 2793 - Her time in Africa. I mean, it's just such a crazy amazing life this girl is living.
L 3298 They represented the US in Beijing. Wow. It's all so cool.
L 3368 - I love this idea of a journal for specific events like a tournament. Apparently, they journaled all their life. It's great in retrospect to really capture your ideas and push yourself forward.
L3434 The joint siblings orea match with the manning brothers and oreo.
L 3632 This idea that she beats her sister and she knows her sister can beat the next girl, so the pressure is on.
L 3655 She reiterates an important point about hard work winning the day.
L 3693 So interesting that she's not sure wants to be remembered for tennis.
June 15, 2018
I enjoyed this book because it is TENNIS and SERENA. However, the writing was hard to read. Serena isn’t a professional writer, yet, and the writing wasn’t organized or cohesive. I loved learning about her life and especially her familial relationships. Can’t wait to read more about her in the future.
Would love to see a biography on Venus! Would love to write it!!!
Would love to see a biography on Venus! Would love to write it!!!
December 1, 2009
I have been an admirer of the Williams sisters since they first sprang onto the women's tennis circuit in the late 1990s. This autobiography by Serena Williams describes her upbringing and family dynamics, although she avoids going into much detail about the difficult moments, like her parents divorce and sister's murder. I would almost classify this as a young adult book, primarily because she spends a great part of the book refelecting on her motivation on the tennis court and her championship spirit. I have a daughter who has played on the junior tennis circuit and I am amazed at how she was able to succeed with only her father as her initial coach.
His unorthodox training style (garnered from watching professional matches on television) included throwing footballs to help with their serves, daily practices on public courts in very rough neighborhoods in Lynwood, CA and choosing to avoid participating in the junior circuit. He also encouraged them to keep daily journals with motivational quotes, match analysis and notes on their opponents. Interestingly, my daughter's coach also required his kids to do the same. Excerpts from these journals begin each chapter of the book and give us insight into her competitive mindset. One of the pictures in the book shows post-it-notes on her tennis bag.
Here are a few of the things I enjoyed reading about Serena:
--She is the youngest of five sisters and until her late teens was quite small.
--A glimpse into what makes a champion, "You need a wild streak if you hope to be a serious competitor. You need a kind of irrational killer instinct. You need to put it out there that you're reckless and unpredictable." Unfortunately, this mind set has led her to some major blowups on the court, as witnessed at the recent 2009 US Open. The book ends with the 2008 US Open.
--She is a Jehovah's Witness and her faith has pulled her through some very emotional moments in her life, including the death of her older sister, Tunde.
--She chose not to put a tennis court in her home because she and Venus decided that they needed to build some distance in their lives between home and tennis.
--Serena likes to make a fashion statement on the courts. Her philosophy is "if you carry a positive picture of yourself you'll present a positive picture to everyone else...I always felt that when there was an edge to how I looked, there was an edge to my game." Who could forget the infamous catsuit or biker outfit?
And most importantly, that bond she has with her sister, Venus, is absolutely genuine. At the end of the book Serena tells us that she is still a work in progress. I look forward to seeing the next chapters in her life.
His unorthodox training style (garnered from watching professional matches on television) included throwing footballs to help with their serves, daily practices on public courts in very rough neighborhoods in Lynwood, CA and choosing to avoid participating in the junior circuit. He also encouraged them to keep daily journals with motivational quotes, match analysis and notes on their opponents. Interestingly, my daughter's coach also required his kids to do the same. Excerpts from these journals begin each chapter of the book and give us insight into her competitive mindset. One of the pictures in the book shows post-it-notes on her tennis bag.
Here are a few of the things I enjoyed reading about Serena:
--She is the youngest of five sisters and until her late teens was quite small.
--A glimpse into what makes a champion, "You need a wild streak if you hope to be a serious competitor. You need a kind of irrational killer instinct. You need to put it out there that you're reckless and unpredictable." Unfortunately, this mind set has led her to some major blowups on the court, as witnessed at the recent 2009 US Open. The book ends with the 2008 US Open.
--She is a Jehovah's Witness and her faith has pulled her through some very emotional moments in her life, including the death of her older sister, Tunde.
--She chose not to put a tennis court in her home because she and Venus decided that they needed to build some distance in their lives between home and tennis.
--Serena likes to make a fashion statement on the courts. Her philosophy is "if you carry a positive picture of yourself you'll present a positive picture to everyone else...I always felt that when there was an edge to how I looked, there was an edge to my game." Who could forget the infamous catsuit or biker outfit?
And most importantly, that bond she has with her sister, Venus, is absolutely genuine. At the end of the book Serena tells us that she is still a work in progress. I look forward to seeing the next chapters in her life.
September 16, 2012
Whenever I hear that Serena Williams is playing in a tournament on TV, I can't do anything except watch her play. She is so powerful and dominant over the others on tour. So, when it came time to read her book, "ON THE LINE," I couldn't wait to start it. I love how she said her favorite color is orange and I love that Venus and Serena are so close. Serena is one of my favorite tennis players of all time. I loved Chapter #4 about "The Fiery Darts" aimed at her. People have no class and no respect sometimes, and when those individuals directed their hatred towards an innocent victim because they felt cheated, Serena had every right to be upset by it. She should be commended for not quitting that day after all of the terrible things that were said to her and her family.
Even though I would love to go to Indian Wells to watch these professional tennis players perform for my first time, I can understand why I would never get to see her play there. Serena will never play that event ever again, nor should she.
In Chapter #6, "Going It Alone," Serena says that she has a self-image issue. She thinks she needs to always look good to be good and perform good. I feel exactly like that. I totally agree that looking good leads to good self-esteem...like she said..."If you want to be your best, you have to look your best, right?"
"You don't drown by falling in the water. You drown by letting yourself stay there...Swim To Shore!". I began reading the title of Chapter #7 called, "Fashion Statement," and it went on about how Serena was working with Puma and eventually Nike, agreeing to merchandise apparel deals for her own line of tennis and fashion clothing items. I was a bit bored when reading about this, and actually contemplated fast-forwarding to Chapter #8, without finishing the words in this chapter. My mistake for thinking that. I can't even believe I considered it to save time. I would have missed out on this great quote she said. This was something that her father had told her.
I loved reading all of the "Match Book Entry" writings after each chapter was finished. I can see her reading these as reminders on the court during her changeovers. And then getting to read her own personal journal entries in the last chapter was so awesome too. I could really feel what she was going through during that 2009 U.S. Open Tournament, having come all the way back from falling in the rankings and from all of her injuries too.
What a great book. I can't wait to read her next.
May 16, 2013
On the Line
By: Serena Williams
Review by: Emma Nunamaker
I always hear about how much fun tennis is and thanks to Serena Williams who wrote her biography On the Line I have learned the excitement and pressure you have going into a tennis match.
Personally I’ve never played tennis but Serena Williams could convince anyone that tennis could be fun, competitive and an intense sport. Serena’s whole family was into tennis so she grew up playing. Serena Williams has an older and younger sister. Her older sisters name is Venus and her younger sisters name was Tunde. When Serena and Venus were younger Venus was given more credit than she actually deserved.
Serena's mom and dad have always been important figures in her life. This is because ever since she was four her parents have taken her the the tennis courts no matter the weather or condition because Serena’s parents from the beginning have always believed in her and knew she had great potential.
On the Line is filled with the same information in every chapter. In every chapter Serena talks about a different tennis match and how it relates to her past and history of her life.
Chapter nine is about Tunde. Tunde was Serena and Venus’s younger sister. When I was looking over the table of contents this chapter caught my eye because of the name, because this chapter was one of the last chapters it encouraged me to read so I could read about Tunde. The chapter is a short story about her sister.
I would not reccomend this book to people who do not have a lot of of patients because it is a very slow read and hard to put together. What I mean by this is her “timeline.” Her book is everywhere! In the beginning she talked about her parents and when she is talking about a tennis match she would bring her past back up.
In such a small world such a little and quite people can end up the most famous. The meaning behind this is Serena Williams was not a well known girl with no credit given and now is one of the worlds most famous female tennis players.
By: Serena Williams
Review by: Emma Nunamaker
I always hear about how much fun tennis is and thanks to Serena Williams who wrote her biography On the Line I have learned the excitement and pressure you have going into a tennis match.
Personally I’ve never played tennis but Serena Williams could convince anyone that tennis could be fun, competitive and an intense sport. Serena’s whole family was into tennis so she grew up playing. Serena Williams has an older and younger sister. Her older sisters name is Venus and her younger sisters name was Tunde. When Serena and Venus were younger Venus was given more credit than she actually deserved.
Serena's mom and dad have always been important figures in her life. This is because ever since she was four her parents have taken her the the tennis courts no matter the weather or condition because Serena’s parents from the beginning have always believed in her and knew she had great potential.
On the Line is filled with the same information in every chapter. In every chapter Serena talks about a different tennis match and how it relates to her past and history of her life.
Chapter nine is about Tunde. Tunde was Serena and Venus’s younger sister. When I was looking over the table of contents this chapter caught my eye because of the name, because this chapter was one of the last chapters it encouraged me to read so I could read about Tunde. The chapter is a short story about her sister.
I would not reccomend this book to people who do not have a lot of of patients because it is a very slow read and hard to put together. What I mean by this is her “timeline.” Her book is everywhere! In the beginning she talked about her parents and when she is talking about a tennis match she would bring her past back up.
In such a small world such a little and quite people can end up the most famous. The meaning behind this is Serena Williams was not a well known girl with no credit given and now is one of the worlds most famous female tennis players.
August 12, 2010
Serena Williams's autobiography On the Line is one of the best sports biographies I've read. The story not only reveals a great deal of information on how the world of tennis is structured, but also gives a surprisingly sincerely-sounding account of her own trials and tribulations. In comparison with Peter Sampras's autobiography, Serena's talks much more about the youth of a tennis player, both as a radiography of the system and as an account of the feelings of an ambitious kid. Serena is not shy to talk about her ambitions (wanting to always be #1), her trouble with American audiences concerning allegations of racist abuse, and concerns over match-fixing between her and her sister. She also talks about her involvement with charity, including her help to children in Africa. Albeit not very challenging intellectually, a good and refreshing read. Thumbs up!
May 2, 2015
"On the Line" was a wonderful book that allows the reader to really understand where Serena Williams started and is written so that the reader gets an inside look at what goes on in a professional athlete's head. Williams's book includes entries from her match book, by doing this she is giving the reader a sense of who she is as a person. She writes about her tennis career from start to present, including personal details about her childhood and the reality of her early life. Williams reveals her love for the game as well as her love for family. Serena never talks badly about any of her sisters and as the youngest child, she explains how much her sisters really influenced her, each in a different manner. this is what I love the most from her book. After reading her novel, I have a greater appreciation for her not only as a top ranked tennis player, but also as a person devoted to what she loves. Many times, people think that athletes do what they do for the money, but even if that is true, I can say without a doubt that Serena Williams is the exception. I would recommend this book to anyone and even read it again!
Currently reading
May 8, 2013Inspiration, Hope, Courage, and where it all started is what Serena Williams writes about in her Biography on the Line. When Serena Williams started playing Tennis at five years old she had no idea she would soon become the number one Tennis player in the world. When you first begin to read this book it is hard to put down and you could truly feel the goods and bad that she was feeling at the time. Serena has had many ups and downs on her own, with her sister, and all of her family, but they always stuck together and you could feel the bound they had with each other.
This book is a tell all of what Serena has been through and felt over the years and that is what I began to dislike when I continued to read this book. The ‘Tell all’ went way too far, to the point that I no longer wanted to read! But I continued and in the end the message was clear that if you set your mind to something you can always accomplish that goal. I would recommend this book to any tennis lover due to its meaningful message it delivers in the end.
This book is a tell all of what Serena has been through and felt over the years and that is what I began to dislike when I continued to read this book. The ‘Tell all’ went way too far, to the point that I no longer wanted to read! But I continued and in the end the message was clear that if you set your mind to something you can always accomplish that goal. I would recommend this book to any tennis lover due to its meaningful message it delivers in the end.
March 14, 2015
I enjoyed Serena William's memoir / diary On The Line. Serena tells the story of her childhood in Compton, California, where she and her sisters were coached in tennis by her parents, especially her father. The reader learns about Serena's early relationships, particularly the closeness and the rivalry among five sisters in a tight-knit family. She explains how the rivalry between her and her older sister Venus proves to be extremely beneficial in forming their competitive edge. Serena shares other significant events of her life, including the end of a short-lived romantic relationship, the celebration of her first grand slam wins, the tragic loss of her eldest sister, visiting Africa, struggles with injuries, etc. that shape her time on the court. It is fascinating to find out what goes on in a top athlete's mind before, during, and after a match. Serena faces adversity with determination, using it to fuel her powerful game. While I had a little trouble with the mixed-up chronology of certain events, overall this was a great read and a positive and inspirational one, too.
September 20, 2009
In "On the Line", Serena Williams shares a lot of funny anecdotes from her childhood in a conversational tone that will appeal to the younger reader. This is an inspirational look at the sacrifices the entire Williams family made to help get Serena and Venus to the top of the tennis world. Although Serena is the baby of the family and admits to being very spoiled, she does recognize the effect her training schedules had on her older sisters, and is grateful for their support.
Serena Williams is only in her late 20's, so this should be viewed as part one of her autobiography. She discusses certain things in great detail, while other seemingly important moments in her life are kind of glossed over. She mentions her perceptions of everything she has encountered in life may change as she gets older - and she has a tendency to put a positive spin on everything - so if you're looking for gossip, this is not the book for you.
Serena Williams is only in her late 20's, so this should be viewed as part one of her autobiography. She discusses certain things in great detail, while other seemingly important moments in her life are kind of glossed over. She mentions her perceptions of everything she has encountered in life may change as she gets older - and she has a tendency to put a positive spin on everything - so if you're looking for gossip, this is not the book for you.
September 21, 2009
Think. Do. Be.
Looking for a light yet positive and informative read? Consider a copy of Serena Williams' memoir. "On the Line" peels back a few layers of the life of this tennis phenom. In just twenty seven short years she has experienced what some may never experience in a lifetime. Serena discusses her highs and lows, wins and losses, triumphs and tragedies and what keeps her grounded: family and her faith. From the unforgiving streets of Compton to the U.S. Open, Serena is a testament of hard work and perseverance. "On the Line" is a smooth and easy read. I recommend it, particularly to youths.
If you're looking for a scandalous, salacious, controversial tell-all with little substance, I'm afraid you have the wrong book. However, if you are looking for an inspirational journey of one girl's rise to become one of the greatest athletes of our time, then this is the book for you.
Reviewed by: Tracy
Looking for a light yet positive and informative read? Consider a copy of Serena Williams' memoir. "On the Line" peels back a few layers of the life of this tennis phenom. In just twenty seven short years she has experienced what some may never experience in a lifetime. Serena discusses her highs and lows, wins and losses, triumphs and tragedies and what keeps her grounded: family and her faith. From the unforgiving streets of Compton to the U.S. Open, Serena is a testament of hard work and perseverance. "On the Line" is a smooth and easy read. I recommend it, particularly to youths.
If you're looking for a scandalous, salacious, controversial tell-all with little substance, I'm afraid you have the wrong book. However, if you are looking for an inspirational journey of one girl's rise to become one of the greatest athletes of our time, then this is the book for you.
Reviewed by: Tracy
August 1, 2009
Serena Williams fully admits that she's not old enough to completely write an autobiography and that she has a lot more tennis and living to go through. However, this is a good book to get started on. I didn't really know much about Serena. I think if you are a longstanding fan of hers then you will be disappointed with this book. It's very basic and she's very positive about everything in her life. She appeared to me to be making a lot of excuses about her family. She barely mentions her parents' divorce and the effect on her. However, she does go into great detail about Sept. 11th and her sister's death. I liked how she was open about how she feels to play tennis and to visit Africa. Overall, it was a typical sports biography of an athlete that isn't done with their careers and that is still putting positive spin on everything.
July 23, 2010
What a pleasure it was to sit down and read a book written by female tennis' world no1.
I really felt like Serena Williams was sitting down right next to me taking me through her life. Some of which I was aware of, others to which I was completely ignorant and others to which I remember but finally found out what was going on in 'her' head at the time.
I have always respected Serena Williams profound talent on the tennis circuit, however reading her book has truly opened my eyes to the sort of character she holds on and off the courts.
Bless you Serena Williams, you are a fighter like no other.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am hoping for many more to come in the future.
5 STARS!
I really felt like Serena Williams was sitting down right next to me taking me through her life. Some of which I was aware of, others to which I was completely ignorant and others to which I remember but finally found out what was going on in 'her' head at the time.
I have always respected Serena Williams profound talent on the tennis circuit, however reading her book has truly opened my eyes to the sort of character she holds on and off the courts.
Bless you Serena Williams, you are a fighter like no other.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am hoping for many more to come in the future.
5 STARS!
May 31, 2013
I enjoyed the first chapters of this book the most. It was very interesting to read about how her close family played and practiced together. I never realized how many hours elite atheletes log in perfecting their skills. I admire their dedication to each other and the game. I am not a big tennis fan and I don't know the rules very well. This was a hindrance to me especially during the later part of the book where she detailed her matches point by point. I'm sure I would have enjoyed it more if I knew what she was talking about! I really enjoyed the photo section of the book as well. It was a neat addition to the memoir.
February 2, 2010
I really enjoyed getting to know Serena on a more personal level. The book is a great motivator. I believe that the same tactics that she uses to keep her going and focused on the courts can be used by not only any athlete but by anyone with any type of goal they have set forth for themself. Her dedication & energy is incredible and I admire her even more. Realize her career is strenuous not only physically but mentally and must endure criticisms, biases as well as fierce opponents.
April 2, 2015
I truly enjoyed this book on Serena William's life because it really shows you an athletes' life every day. I also enjoyed reading about the personal side, her relationship were parents and her sisters. I also learned more about her tough background and it helped me appreciate her more. I feel that this book taught me many new things about being an athlete and also inspired me as a person. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to see how hard it is to be an athlete.
July 15, 2010
I was awarded an advanced copy of this book through First-Read and really enjoyed it. I don't follow tennis and wasn't sure what to expect. Serena was very positive and shared where her inspiration has come from at different stages in her life. I enjoyed her memories of her family and her description of the strength she draws from them.
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