EXPERT SKIING.

By David Bradley '38,Ralph Miller '55, and Allison Merrill.New York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston,1960. 224 pp. $12.50.

Although many books have been written about skiing, few have covered all phases so completely and authoritatively as this finely balanced treatment. The title may be somewhat misleading, for the volume has a wealth of information and advice for the beginning skier as well as for the expert.

In their discussion of the fundamental techniques of walking, climbing, poling, sideslipping, snowplow turns, and falling the authors have brought out the importance not only of having precision of action, but also of acquiring the "feeling" of skiing.

Progressing to the modern method, emphasis is upon the dynamic development of skiing today. What may seem to many a confusion of separate techniques is brought clearly into focus by the fine analysis of the components of the modern turn, rotation, unweighting, and angulation. The sequential pictures, illustrating the progression of the turn are invaluable. With the suggested exercises that are provided, the reader is encouraged actively to test the maneuvers presented.

For the more advanced skier, the sections on the mambo, pole jumps, somersaults, and deep-powder skiing offer helpful tips. The chapters dealing with downhill and slalom racing contain not only basic material for young racers, but also valuable information such as can be given only by experts in the field. Included is refreshing advice on the importance of enjoying one's chosen sport.

There is. excellent coverage of aspects of skiing that are so often neglected in skiing books: touring, cross-country racing, and jumping. The problems of varying snow conditions, and of avalanche are practically discussed. The part on cross-country racing treats both elementary and advanced techniques, with the discussion augmented by fine serial photographs and diagrams. Jumping is covered from all aspects: equipment, take-off, the aerodynamics of flight, and landing. The inclusion of material on waxing, skiing equipment, training, and running races completes the book.

The authors, all former Olympic skiers, each with a special sphere of skiing interest, have succeeded in producing one of the most readable books on skiing in many years, transmitting to the reader their obvious love and enthusiasm for the sport.

Charles B. Gaynor '29 has written the music, lyrics and sketches for the current Broadway intimate review, Show Girl, starring Carol Channing.