Things We Like: Jim Waltzer's “The Battle of the Century” & More

The Battle of the Century: Dempsey, Carpentier, and the Birth of the Modern Promotion

By Jim Waltzer
Praeger, 204 pages

Main Line Today contributor Jim Waltzer bangs out an impeccably researched, no-nonsense retelling of the “Battle of the Century,” the 1921 Dempsey-Carpentier heavyweight championship. A veteran newspaper scribe and published novelist, Waltzer crafts a propulsive narrative from an array of sources, taking readers down a twisting path studded with colorful characters—one that leads to an unprecedented mass-entertainment spectacle.
 

Continued on page 2 …
 

The Hidden History of Chester County: Lost Tales from the Delaware & Brandywine Valleys

By Mark E. Dixon
The History Press, 128 pages

As it turns out, Chester County was home to more movers, shakers and precedent-makers than you may know—not to mention the occasional oddity. The hills of Westtown doubled as testing grounds for the iconic Flexible Flyer sled; a local 1874 murder case was the first to use photographic evidence; and there’s the unlikely tale of the goat that ate a stick of dynamite. MLT contributor Mark E. Dixon’s third collection of highlights from his popular Retrospect history column covers these curiosities and more. To order a discounted copy, along with the Main Line and Delaware County editions, click here.
 

Continued on page 3 …
 

After Hours

Street Greek (Self-released)

The self-described “soulful, folky, pop ’n’ roll, bluesnik stew” of Phoenixville’s Shawn Cephas—better known as Street Greek—is definitely some good food for thought. His recently released nine-track debut, After Hours, lives up to its motley definition—smooth, sultry and the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing Sunday afternoon. Highlights include the mellow, sexy “Burn Me Alive,” plus the upbeat “Soul Singer,” both of which feature a decidedly Motown vibe. Catch Street Greek live at Phoenixville’s Steel City Coffee House Aug. 10, or head to Berwyn’s Shady Dog Records to snag a copy. Visit streetgreekmusic.com.

- Advertisement -

» More Things We Like: People, Books and CDs
 

Our Best of the Main Line Nomination Ballot is open through January 8!