Good Book. As They See 'Em by Bruce Weber

I just finished Bruce Weber's "As They See 'Em" and recommend it.  I've read a number of books by and about umpires, and have largely been disappointed because they turn into a collection of war stories.  This book gives insight to the current world of major league umpiring and those who aspire to "chase the dream."  Here's a review from Amazon's booklist: It’s a wonder that, given their central role in the game of baseball, from Little Leagues to major leagues, umpires have remained a mystery to fans for so long. New York Times reporter Weber corrects that in this sympathetic, thoughtful, highly engaging account. Weber spent months, including a five-week course at one of two major league–approved umpire schools, talking with dozens of umps as well as the players, managers, owners, and league officials who live with their calls. Out of this exhaustive research, and after strapping on the gear himself, Weber reveals how exceedingly demanding the profession can be. At the same time, he shows how disrespected, if not reviled, umps are by nearly everyone in baseball, though they serve as the last—some might argue, the only—line of defense for the integrity of the game. Weber shares the particulars of umping a game, the torturous path to becoming a major league ump, and some hot-button issues such as the umps’ 1999 strike, instant replay, and the pace of games. And for the starstruck baseball fans among us, there are lots of stories about umps, players, and managers we know. An outstanding book that demands a place on any sports shelf. --Alan Moores