Beneath the Surface

My Story

By: Michael Phelps, Brian Cazeneuve

Narrated by: Marc Cashman

Length: 8 hrs and 15 mins

Publisher's summary

Just in time for the 2012 Olympics - prepare to peek into the mind of a champion with this newly updated edition of Michael Phelps’ autobiography, Beneath the Surface.

In this candid memoir, Phelps talks openly about his battle with attention deficit disorder, the trauma of his parents’ divorce, and the challenges that come with being thrust into the limelight. Readers worldwide will relive all the heart-stopping glory as Phelps completes his journey from the youngest man to ever set a world swimming record in 2001, to an Olympic powerhouse in 2008, and the most decorated Olympian in 2012. Athletes and fans alike will be fascinated by insights into Phelps’ training, mental preparation, and behind-the-scenes perspective on international athletic competitions. A chronicle of Phelps’ evolution from awkward teenager to media-savvy superstar, Beneath the Surface is a must-read for any sports fan.

©2004, 2008, 2012 Michael Phelps and Brian Cazeneuve (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

Just OK

A lot of other reviewers have complained about the audiobook not being updated. Yes, that is annoying, but my gripe is with the book in its entirety. I read a fair number of biographies, and this was just so, so. It just wasn’t all that inspirational. It was mostly a lot about him fighting with his coach winning metals, eating food, and playing Madden football and poker.

My issue is that there really is an inspirational story here. Michael Phelps has crippling anxiety and has frequently suffered from suicidal thoughts. That part of his story is entirely missing from this book, so I feel it is a little dishonest. I want to hear the story of him working through anxiety and depression, not bickering with his coach.

I also run while I listen to books, so I love sports stories to pump me up. But the frequent swimming anecdotes just didn’t do it for me. I didn’t feel any tension, suspense of build-up. It was all very matter of fact and a little redundant.

Don’t get me wrong. The story still gets 3 stars. There were some decent moments, but it could have been SO much better.

Unfair

What did you love best about Beneath the Surface?

It gives me a good idea on the upbringing of a man I admire as well as the making of a star.

Would you be willing to try another book from Michael Phelps and Brian Cazeneuve ? Why or why not?

Perhaps yes.

Have you listened to any of Marc Cashman’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I loved the way he connected with his friends and family despite rising to an iconic status. His moments during and after the races, the way he got pumped up and delivered in the pool are great moments.

Any additional comments?

Utterly disappointed with the promise of the book. The authors bring a sudden end to the story with Phelps' entry in Beijing and leave it at that. I was looking forward to his story in Beijing which really made Phelps an icon. I mean 8 gold medals is no joke and there is not a word on that. Most importantly, the book carries the words 'Includes London 2012' on its cover. What a shame. There is no word on Beijing (2008), let alone London (2012). Disappointed to the core that Audible let this pass without ratifying the content and whatever it promised on its cover.

Does not even include Beijing

I am very sad the print version said it has up through rio
And the cover of this one says it includes the London 2012 Olympics
However it doesn’t even cover Beijing.
It’s really good and love how he describes everything. But I am mad that it doesn’t include what it says it should.

motivating!

at first i thought the narrator was boring. but the more I listened to it, the more I liked it.
an incredible story of Michael phelps overcoming his challenges and reaching his goals.
I wish that this book had the Brazil Olympics. I know the book does, they need to update the audio. I was disappointed that this didn't include the 2016 Olympics.

Very uplifting and positive

Wish Michael would have read it but other than that, I loved it. So uplifting

Great swimmer

Very pleased to listen to this audio and to know the author’s extraordinary success. The narrator’ voice was pleasant to listen to. Thanks.