Fascinating, enjoyable look at film history and the career journey of a creative genius and gutsy stunt man who impacted the industries of stunt work and second unit filming.

The book's organization and writing could be better. Transitions aren't used often; even a scene-break space would have helped in some chapters. Regardless, the book is worthwhile for anyone interested in Old Hollywood or who knows Yakima Canutt's work and wants to read behind the scenes of his three careers (bronc riding, stunt work, and second unit directing). His detailed descriptions of his work on various films, how to keep actors safe and how to create realistic spectacle, are fascinating and make me wish more of this work were still included in the movies made today, rather than relying so much on the green screen. ( )