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The Great Eight: How to Be Happy Even When You Have Every Reason to Be Miserable
An Olympic Gold Medal figure skater shares stories from the skating world, personal challenges, and divine miracles, revealing his eight secrets to finding hope in a life filled with challenges, difficulties, and career-ending odds.
183 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2008
About the author
Scott Hamilton
8 books42 followersLibrarian's note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
The most recognized male figure skating star in the world, Scott Hamilton has won 70 titles, awards and honors including an Emmy Award nomination, induction into the United States Olympic Hall of Fame and a privileged member of the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame.
In 1984, Scott captured the attention of the world with his Olympic Gold medal performances in Sarajevo and since has shared his love and enthusiasm for the sport as a analyst/commentator, performer, producer and best-selling author (Landing It, 1999; The Great Eight, 2009). He further inspires others as a speaker, humanitarian, and as a cancer and pituitary brain tumor survivor.
After losing his mother to cancer, then becoming survivor himself, Scott turned activist, launching the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation (Cancer Alliance for Research, Education and Survivorship). He founded several education and survivorship programs including Chemocare.com and the 4th Angel Mentoring Program. Events such as Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer and An Evening with Scott Hamilton & Friends galas fund research into treatments that treat the cancer and spare the patient.
He is also the founder of the Scott Hamilton Skating Academy at Ford Ice Center in Antioch, TN, where he may frequently be found coaching Learn to Skate students and sharing his love of skating.
In what little free time remains, Scott can be found on the golf course and enjoys spending time with his wife Tracie and four children – at their home outside Nashville, Tennessee.
The most recognized male figure skating star in the world, Scott Hamilton has won 70 titles, awards and honors including an Emmy Award nomination, induction into the United States Olympic Hall of Fame and a privileged member of the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame.
In 1984, Scott captured the attention of the world with his Olympic Gold medal performances in Sarajevo and since has shared his love and enthusiasm for the sport as a analyst/commentator, performer, producer and best-selling author (Landing It, 1999; The Great Eight, 2009). He further inspires others as a speaker, humanitarian, and as a cancer and pituitary brain tumor survivor.
After losing his mother to cancer, then becoming survivor himself, Scott turned activist, launching the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation (Cancer Alliance for Research, Education and Survivorship). He founded several education and survivorship programs including Chemocare.com and the 4th Angel Mentoring Program. Events such as Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer and An Evening with Scott Hamilton & Friends galas fund research into treatments that treat the cancer and spare the patient.
He is also the founder of the Scott Hamilton Skating Academy at Ford Ice Center in Antioch, TN, where he may frequently be found coaching Learn to Skate students and sharing his love of skating.
In what little free time remains, Scott can be found on the golf course and enjoys spending time with his wife Tracie and four children – at their home outside Nashville, Tennessee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
January 16, 2021
Scott Hamilton: I've known for a long time how much work goes into training to be at the elite level of figure skating (and I admire those who can do it). I've always seen Scott Hamilton as a kind, positive person (so in a sense, it is good to know that he has his off days where he's not so positive--that he is just like all of us). I was saddened when I heard he had cancer (the first time)--and a bit surprised that he picked Cleveland Clinic for his treatment. (I didn't realize he'd grown up in Bowling Green, OH at the time where he'd probably heard of the Cleveland Clinic.) I admired that he went through the treatment for that and returned to competitive skating at the pro level. Having gone through my own cancer battle, I admire him even more for that. I LOVE that he is an unapologetic Christian (at least at the time of the writing of this book). Though I miss seeing him skate, I understand his need to stop in light of his brain tumor (that has to be the primary focus of your life while you're fighting it) and his age (where he needs to listen to what his body can safely do). I do hope that he at least skates recreationally because skating was part of his life for so long and as he says, skating was his fitness routine.
I'm not sure that there are any great revelations in this book as far as the steps Scott took or learned throughout his life, but they are presented in a way that may make them click with a certain population that might not be reached by other books with similar messages. I liked the stories of Scott's life and career--someone not as into skating might not appreciate them as much. Someone who's not fought cancer might not appreciate them as much.
For me, it was written in an easy to read style that flowed. Every once in a while there was a leap in the flow that didn't make sense to me but for the most part, it flowed. It was a book I wanted to pick up again to continue reading.
I'm not sure that there are any great revelations in this book as far as the steps Scott took or learned throughout his life, but they are presented in a way that may make them click with a certain population that might not be reached by other books with similar messages. I liked the stories of Scott's life and career--someone not as into skating might not appreciate them as much. Someone who's not fought cancer might not appreciate them as much.
For me, it was written in an easy to read style that flowed. Every once in a while there was a leap in the flow that didn't make sense to me but for the most part, it flowed. It was a book I wanted to pick up again to continue reading.
February 29, 2020
I love this book. I am a huge Scott Hamilton fan, and have been since he began making waves in the skating world all those many years ago. He has always just seemed like a nice person. And this book proves that he is. There is nothing ground breaking or earth shaking in this that I haven't heard before somehow, but it just puts it together and presents it in a delightful and very readable and doable way. Super Tuesday is happening in my state in 3 days, and reading about positivity and forgiveness and belief and trust was a needed balm to the horrible pre-election carnage going on. I want to share this book with others, but I also want to go through it again, and underline and mark the parts that really touch me (and there were quite a few.) Using his life and skating experiences as the basis worked wonderfully for me--especially since I can remember the routines and events since I've been a fan of his for a long time. That said, you get the message even if you aren't picturing what he wore, or how he skated. He is a very, very good storyteller and the message comes through loud and clear. Society is very negative now. This book was a refreshing antidote to all that negativity. Sometimes life stinks--badly. But we will make it through, and it is up to us how we make it through. This slim volume can help you to make it through with optimism and a smile in your heart and on your face. I also loved that he acknowledged the existence of God in his life as a major force, but wasn't preachy or in your face about it. It is part of who he is and part of what helps him to remain happy and optimistic. I'm not saying this book is the end all to having a happy life. But it is an uplifting book that will make you feel good as you read it, and feel better as you apply some of the principles he espouses. I found a lot of very good quotes in this book. Here's one of my favorites.
"If you take a broken piece of glass, and turn it in the light, you can make a rainbow." Amen! And thank you Scott, for the happiness you have created in this world!
"If you take a broken piece of glass, and turn it in the light, you can make a rainbow." Amen! And thank you Scott, for the happiness you have created in this world!
November 30, 2017
I devoured this book and it’s message about positivity in one night. Nothing groundbreaking here, but a message and voice I needed to hear. I’ve always loved Scott Hamilton and followed his career and health issues with admiration. This book makes me admire him more.
February 25, 2012
* *
Although Scott Hamilton's _The Great Eight_ may have some basic and useful truths on happiness, the book seemed largely self-serving. Much of the book centered on Scott's telling (and often re-telling) difficulties he has had in his career, particularly with business partnerships gone sour. Although the superficial messages of the book scream platitudes of optimism and "smile like Kristi Yamaguchi" directives, Scott's repressed anger and bitterness reside between the lines.
It feels as if the book contains Scott's blueprint for achieving happiness, but a plan that he himself has not yet fully embraced. In the final chapter, Scott explains: "This book is a guide, but once you put down this book, you have an entire life to lead in which you must practice what I have preached." (p. 174) Perhaps he was talking to himself?
Of course, Scott's surviving the amazing amount of challenges and setbacks he has is nothing short of inspirational. But, unfortunately, his book is not nearly so evocative.
Although Scott Hamilton's _The Great Eight_ may have some basic and useful truths on happiness, the book seemed largely self-serving. Much of the book centered on Scott's telling (and often re-telling) difficulties he has had in his career, particularly with business partnerships gone sour. Although the superficial messages of the book scream platitudes of optimism and "smile like Kristi Yamaguchi" directives, Scott's repressed anger and bitterness reside between the lines.
It feels as if the book contains Scott's blueprint for achieving happiness, but a plan that he himself has not yet fully embraced. In the final chapter, Scott explains: "This book is a guide, but once you put down this book, you have an entire life to lead in which you must practice what I have preached." (p. 174) Perhaps he was talking to himself?
Of course, Scott's surviving the amazing amount of challenges and setbacks he has is nothing short of inspirational. But, unfortunately, his book is not nearly so evocative.
March 30, 2022
An encouraging book with lots of great advice. I would not recommend it for young readers because of some of the content.
February 10, 2019
I like Scott Hamilton. But this book was just ok. I appreciate that he has found a path that works for him by fully committing to a branch of Christianity but I was put off by his insistence that everyone will eventually come to the same conclusion. It's only a sentence here and there but enough to put me on edge. I'm quite happy with my spiritual path, thank you very much, and not only did it lead me to all the conclusions in this book, but I'm also farther along in some ways.
I did really like the section when he talked about his strategy for winning the Olympics. He bemoans the loss of figures in competition (which is a sentiment I share) but never owns up to how his 1984 Olympic win was one of the main reasons for it happening. (I still feel that both that medal and the 1988 gold rightly belong to Brian Orser, but that's a whole other thing.)
My biggest takeaway from this book? I want to find someone to coach me to do figure eights.
I did really like the section when he talked about his strategy for winning the Olympics. He bemoans the loss of figures in competition (which is a sentiment I share) but never owns up to how his 1984 Olympic win was one of the main reasons for it happening. (I still feel that both that medal and the 1988 gold rightly belong to Brian Orser, but that's a whole other thing.)
My biggest takeaway from this book? I want to find someone to coach me to do figure eights.
April 20, 2018
Many people, including myself before I became a Christian, have a hard time with happiness because they can't forgive themselves for things they've done in the past. And it drives them deeper into a whole other level of unhappiness.
I cannot recommend this book enough. Figure skater (and really good guy) Scott Hamilton shares his personal experiences both on and off the ice and explains his strategies for remaining optimistic through life's ups and downs. He is honest, friendly, and completely nonjudgmental. The Great Eight will empower you to realize that being happy is a choice and it is entirely under your control.
If you are interested, another book I have found helpful is How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie. :)
I cannot recommend this book enough. Figure skater (and really good guy) Scott Hamilton shares his personal experiences both on and off the ice and explains his strategies for remaining optimistic through life's ups and downs. He is honest, friendly, and completely nonjudgmental. The Great Eight will empower you to realize that being happy is a choice and it is entirely under your control.
If you are interested, another book I have found helpful is How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie. :)
June 19, 2009
Reading this book was a departure for me. First of all I tend to read fiction and when I do read nonfiction, I am usually reading something historical or scientific (Hawking, Dawkins, etc) or even something political (“The Mommy Myth” or “Audios Barbie”).I tend to stay away from self help books, inspirational books, or memoirs by people I don’t have a desire to emulate.
This book was not my cup of normal tea but since the publisher was nice enough to send me a free copy with the understanding that I would write a review, I sat down one sunny afternoon with the expectation that I would read it, learn something useful, and pass on said wisdom to you.
Or not.
It was actually hard to finish this book. Not because the subject matter was deep or thick or difficult to grasp. Not because the writing style was high brow with big words and even bigger concepts.
But because… after reading the first ten pages or so I started to feel the stabs of an early migraine setting in.
In other words, I severely disliked reading this book and had I not told the nice publisher people that I would read it and write about it there is no doubt in my mind that I would have quit very early on and never ever ever finished it.
And I was all ready to lambaste this book, to mock it, to rip it apart, to go point by point and tell you all exactly how and why it was a colossal waste of my time.
But then I realized something…. This book isn’t my sort of book, but it might be just what the doctor ordered for other people. With that in mind, I have prepared the following list.
Reasons you should read “The Great Eight” by Scott Hamilton.
1. You love Scott Hamilton and reading his earlier memoir was not enough.
2. You enjoy relearning concepts about happiness from a book instead of where said concepts are normally found: greeting cards.
3. You have a deep appreciation for exclamation points!
4. You have the attention span of a gnat.
Was it really that bad? Yes, yes it was.
In the book figure skater (and Olympian Gold Medal winner -1984 on a well documented and admitted technicality) Scott Hamilton gives you advice on how to find happiness. See, he is an expert having survived a childhood (never diagnosed) illness, testicular cancer, and a brain tumor. He is happy see, he is married with kids living away from the rat race, performing, living his dream…. And You Could Be Happy Too!
I am not sure what bothers me more about this book, the fact that the entire thing is written in a style better suited for “Discover A Better You” pamphlets one might find behind the couch at a doctor’s office or the fact that Mr. Hamilton honestly seems to think that advice like “Keep Trying!” “Trust God!” “Failure happens, but you can get over it!” are not only worth of a 183 page book but are somehow new and exciting!
I should have counted the number of exclamation points… thre is some serious overkill going on!
In fact, it was difficult to not read the book without hearing the narration done in a hyper squirrel voice. Here is an example passage from the potion of the book where we are encouraged to find the positives in every situation:
“Take, for example, being short. I don’t need to list the infinite number of negatives about being far shorter than the average man. But on the positive side of things, I can tell you that at five-foot-four. I don’t take up as much space. I fit in airplane seats more comfortably. My clothes don’t require as much material thus helping save the planet (and I am a better environmentalist since I don’t use as much water in the shower!)”
Other words of wisdom include life altering assertions like “You’ve got to find the light spot, even in the darkness. If you don’t, you can’t be happy.”
Not that I necessarily think he is wrong… I am just not sure there is anyone out there who wouldn’t already know this. (And if there are people out there who think that happiness can be found by dwelling on nothing but the dark/bad stuff… well are they going to buy a copy of this book? I would wager not.)
He continues to talk about light and dark and brings God in as well: “There is so much darkness in the word and it has the potential to suck us in like a black hole… God created the sun for many reasons, one of which is to give us light. You notice that we sleep when it’s dark? I like to think this is God’s way of saying ‘Hey guys. Don’t pay too much attention to the darkness.”
At this point I almost threw the book across the room.
Now, please don’t get me wrong. I think happiness is a good thing and I think that being reminded that being happy or finding happiness isn’t an overnight thing and that tools like a good sense of humor and humility can help you achieve it. I don’t even have a problem with people finding happiness with God or Shinto or Zeus or whoever…. But again I have to wonder who was the target audience for this book. People who already buy into this woo-ish sort of touchy feely stuff probably don’t need to read this book and those of us with a more practical way of seeing the universe will be alternately bored and nauseated by Mr. Hamilton’s ramblings.
It doesn’t help that it is written at a 5th grade reading level, the font is huge and on almost every page big blocks of test are blown up and indented so as to a)make the book even longer! and b) draw special emphasis to things like “Learning not to fight the inevitable changes life brings is a key component to being happy."
I am not sure when I felt such a sense of relief upon completing a book. In fact, I guess I could say that the only real happiness I got from the entire ordeal was that eventually I finished it (gritting my teeth and reminding myself of the nice publishers every step of the way.)
This book was not my cup of normal tea but since the publisher was nice enough to send me a free copy with the understanding that I would write a review, I sat down one sunny afternoon with the expectation that I would read it, learn something useful, and pass on said wisdom to you.
Or not.
It was actually hard to finish this book. Not because the subject matter was deep or thick or difficult to grasp. Not because the writing style was high brow with big words and even bigger concepts.
But because… after reading the first ten pages or so I started to feel the stabs of an early migraine setting in.
In other words, I severely disliked reading this book and had I not told the nice publisher people that I would read it and write about it there is no doubt in my mind that I would have quit very early on and never ever ever finished it.
And I was all ready to lambaste this book, to mock it, to rip it apart, to go point by point and tell you all exactly how and why it was a colossal waste of my time.
But then I realized something…. This book isn’t my sort of book, but it might be just what the doctor ordered for other people. With that in mind, I have prepared the following list.
Reasons you should read “The Great Eight” by Scott Hamilton.
1. You love Scott Hamilton and reading his earlier memoir was not enough.
2. You enjoy relearning concepts about happiness from a book instead of where said concepts are normally found: greeting cards.
3. You have a deep appreciation for exclamation points!
4. You have the attention span of a gnat.
Was it really that bad? Yes, yes it was.
In the book figure skater (and Olympian Gold Medal winner -1984 on a well documented and admitted technicality) Scott Hamilton gives you advice on how to find happiness. See, he is an expert having survived a childhood (never diagnosed) illness, testicular cancer, and a brain tumor. He is happy see, he is married with kids living away from the rat race, performing, living his dream…. And You Could Be Happy Too!
I am not sure what bothers me more about this book, the fact that the entire thing is written in a style better suited for “Discover A Better You” pamphlets one might find behind the couch at a doctor’s office or the fact that Mr. Hamilton honestly seems to think that advice like “Keep Trying!” “Trust God!” “Failure happens, but you can get over it!” are not only worth of a 183 page book but are somehow new and exciting!
I should have counted the number of exclamation points… thre is some serious overkill going on!
In fact, it was difficult to not read the book without hearing the narration done in a hyper squirrel voice. Here is an example passage from the potion of the book where we are encouraged to find the positives in every situation:
“Take, for example, being short. I don’t need to list the infinite number of negatives about being far shorter than the average man. But on the positive side of things, I can tell you that at five-foot-four. I don’t take up as much space. I fit in airplane seats more comfortably. My clothes don’t require as much material thus helping save the planet (and I am a better environmentalist since I don’t use as much water in the shower!)”
Other words of wisdom include life altering assertions like “You’ve got to find the light spot, even in the darkness. If you don’t, you can’t be happy.”
Not that I necessarily think he is wrong… I am just not sure there is anyone out there who wouldn’t already know this. (And if there are people out there who think that happiness can be found by dwelling on nothing but the dark/bad stuff… well are they going to buy a copy of this book? I would wager not.)
He continues to talk about light and dark and brings God in as well: “There is so much darkness in the word and it has the potential to suck us in like a black hole… God created the sun for many reasons, one of which is to give us light. You notice that we sleep when it’s dark? I like to think this is God’s way of saying ‘Hey guys. Don’t pay too much attention to the darkness.”
At this point I almost threw the book across the room.
Now, please don’t get me wrong. I think happiness is a good thing and I think that being reminded that being happy or finding happiness isn’t an overnight thing and that tools like a good sense of humor and humility can help you achieve it. I don’t even have a problem with people finding happiness with God or Shinto or Zeus or whoever…. But again I have to wonder who was the target audience for this book. People who already buy into this woo-ish sort of touchy feely stuff probably don’t need to read this book and those of us with a more practical way of seeing the universe will be alternately bored and nauseated by Mr. Hamilton’s ramblings.
It doesn’t help that it is written at a 5th grade reading level, the font is huge and on almost every page big blocks of test are blown up and indented so as to a)make the book even longer! and b) draw special emphasis to things like “Learning not to fight the inevitable changes life brings is a key component to being happy."
I am not sure when I felt such a sense of relief upon completing a book. In fact, I guess I could say that the only real happiness I got from the entire ordeal was that eventually I finished it (gritting my teeth and reminding myself of the nice publishers every step of the way.)
April 2, 2018
This was a great read- I loved reading about Scott Hamilton’s life. He was always one of my favorite skaters and I think he’s done a great job of always making the most of what life has given him. This book has so many great quotes and ideas in it- it’s great, practical advice for those of us that don’t naturally feel positive about life. I also especially loved his focus on determination and that happiness takes time and work and requires us to experiences hard times and change. I also loved his focus on not taking yourself or life too seriously- I tend to do that, so it was a good reminder.
June 30, 2018
Scott Hamilton combines this autobiography with his philosophy of life.
Scott shares that even though he has had multiple challenges in his lifetime, he has had found
happiness.
His ideas are stated simply and would be easy to apply to your life.
Scott shares that even though he has had multiple challenges in his lifetime, he has had found
happiness.
His ideas are stated simply and would be easy to apply to your life.
Read
August 6, 2018DNF. I have the greatest respect for Scott Hamilton and all he has overcome and his Christian values, but I stopped reading this book halfway through and never felt compelled to pick it back up. Maybe one day I will....
October 3, 2020
Though I didn't always like what he said, I could not disagree. I think he gets that as he didn't always like what he learned either! I feel I got to know a bit more about what makes him tick and be so great at what he does. He isn't just a good skater, he is a good man. It shows in his words.
March 26, 2021
Thank you Scott for just what I needed.
This is a book I will read twice. Once for the information, and once to memorize the highlights so I can apply it to my life. Who doesn't need to learn how to be happy during our trials?
This is a book I will read twice. Once for the information, and once to memorize the highlights so I can apply it to my life. Who doesn't need to learn how to be happy during our trials?
March 28, 2022
I was a big fan of Scott Hamilton and after reading this, I'm probably an even bigger fan. This is an easy to read book but it has some profound insights into life and the true sources of happiness. I enjoyed learning a little more about his personal life and his faith.
July 7, 2022
This book is probably more of a 4 star book from a writing & editorial standpoint, however I am such a huge fan of his & was impressed & inspired by his story that I had to give it 5 stars. Even if you aren't an ice skating fan, you will find inspiration & hope from his story.
May 17, 2017
Part biography part navigating through life. Interesting book and a quick read.
February 11, 2018
I love Scott Hamilton and I love this book. I highly recommend this book.
March 19, 2018
cute. much better publishing than his first book.
April 24, 2018
Excellent book
Thanks to Scott for his honesty and insight. While some of us know these principles, we don’t always practice them or have them pointed out so brilliantly.
Thanks to Scott for his honesty and insight. While some of us know these principles, we don’t always practice them or have them pointed out so brilliantly.
April 19, 2019
I enjoyed reading a bit about Scotty’s life. Nice inspirational reading. Not too heavy handed on becoming a Christian.
November 28, 2020
Thank you for a loving example
Scott explained the basics in a way I could see and apply to my work and love life. Change happens, live it.
Scott explained the basics in a way I could see and apply to my work and love life. Change happens, live it.
December 27, 2020
Great book!
July 9, 2015
Scott Hamilton is an Olympic Gold Metal winner, and amazing skater. Life looked like it had been easy for him. Not! I loved how gut level honest he is in this book and was surprised at all the challenges he had overcome. We can survive hard times or thrive in them. He reminded me the only thing you can count on is CHANGE in this life. If we had NO change in life, there would be NO hope. Without hope we can't thrive-we'd just survive. God didn't intend for us to merely survive this life; He gives us the ultimate "hope" so we can bloom and grow in any situation. The choice is ours.
Scott found God to be his ultimate life coach. God is his biggest cheerleader. He unexpectedly found happiness and healing in skating. It was so fascinating to read how he started skating and how that dramatically changed his life forever. I loved when Scott said, "There is always going to be suffering. Its how you look at your suffering, how you deal with it that will define you." He talks about falling down in skating, falls he made in life and about picking himself back up again. His insight into this was profound.
"All challenges are really just opportunities to learn more about yourself, to reach a greater understanding of self, of your mortality, and to be happy with that balance." Scott shows how God's ways are not our ways, but how we have everything to do with our attitude and how we deal with the changes that come our way. Scott says,"I strongly believe that the only disability in life is a bad attitude." Amen!
Scott shares stories of his wins, life's struggles, marriage, children and overcoming cancer and a brain tumor. I have so much respect for this man. He can smile and laugh at the face of a challenge. He says he?s been told ,"I was too short, too bald, and too goofy to win a gold medal." He used humor in his skating skits and in life to help deal with the hard times. I really needed to read this book. Scott is inspirational, funny, hopeful and honest. It's a breath of fresh air. You'll smile as you discover treasures you can apply to your life which will help you achieve the balance and the happiness God wants for you. I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
Scott found God to be his ultimate life coach. God is his biggest cheerleader. He unexpectedly found happiness and healing in skating. It was so fascinating to read how he started skating and how that dramatically changed his life forever. I loved when Scott said, "There is always going to be suffering. Its how you look at your suffering, how you deal with it that will define you." He talks about falling down in skating, falls he made in life and about picking himself back up again. His insight into this was profound.
"All challenges are really just opportunities to learn more about yourself, to reach a greater understanding of self, of your mortality, and to be happy with that balance." Scott shows how God's ways are not our ways, but how we have everything to do with our attitude and how we deal with the changes that come our way. Scott says,"I strongly believe that the only disability in life is a bad attitude." Amen!
Scott shares stories of his wins, life's struggles, marriage, children and overcoming cancer and a brain tumor. I have so much respect for this man. He can smile and laugh at the face of a challenge. He says he?s been told ,"I was too short, too bald, and too goofy to win a gold medal." He used humor in his skating skits and in life to help deal with the hard times. I really needed to read this book. Scott is inspirational, funny, hopeful and honest. It's a breath of fresh air. You'll smile as you discover treasures you can apply to your life which will help you achieve the balance and the happiness God wants for you. I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
May 10, 2009
I have always liked and admired Scott Hamilton. I loved watching him skate, and like many others, I remember his 1984 Olympic Gold Medal win in Sarajevo. Scott's struggles in his life, especially his sickly youth, are well-known. He's also a two-time cancer survivor, and a happily married man with two children.
When a person first learns to skate, they learn the compulsory figures. They trace a figure eight, over and over again on the ice. It's slow, tedious, repetitious work, but it trains and builds the skaters muscles in ways that strengthen them and allow them minute control over their movements on the ice. Scott is very open about the fact that it was his proficiency in the compulsory figures that ultimately won him the 1984 Olympic Gold Medal.
Playing on the figure eight concept from figure skating, Scott shares with us, the eight secrets that helped him find happiness. Scott is open and honest, he doesn't have any airs or attitudes here. He shares that your challenges can also be gifts: how you deal with your challenges defines you, not your challenges themselves. One of my favorite chapters was the concept of keeping the ice clear: communicate and deal with problems and issues as they happen, don't let your frustrations fester.
Scott also says, "I'm a big believer that smiling--and its first cousin, laughter--can get you through the toughest times." When you fall during a figure skating routine, jump right up and go back into the routine, smiling. Rolling your eyes and pointing out the mistake makes it all the more profound and ultimately can make the judges focus on that mistake alone, rather than everything else that was perfect. People around you are the same way and will overlook a lot of flaws and issues when you're smiling and positive.
Scott believes that happiness in life is a choice, and I agree with him. Overall, a wonderful book. Easy to read, entertaining and often profound. Look at your life, focus on the good, think positively and like Scott says, "Smile like Kristi Yamaguchi".
Thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishers for the opportunity to read this gem.
When a person first learns to skate, they learn the compulsory figures. They trace a figure eight, over and over again on the ice. It's slow, tedious, repetitious work, but it trains and builds the skaters muscles in ways that strengthen them and allow them minute control over their movements on the ice. Scott is very open about the fact that it was his proficiency in the compulsory figures that ultimately won him the 1984 Olympic Gold Medal.
Playing on the figure eight concept from figure skating, Scott shares with us, the eight secrets that helped him find happiness. Scott is open and honest, he doesn't have any airs or attitudes here. He shares that your challenges can also be gifts: how you deal with your challenges defines you, not your challenges themselves. One of my favorite chapters was the concept of keeping the ice clear: communicate and deal with problems and issues as they happen, don't let your frustrations fester.
Scott also says, "I'm a big believer that smiling--and its first cousin, laughter--can get you through the toughest times." When you fall during a figure skating routine, jump right up and go back into the routine, smiling. Rolling your eyes and pointing out the mistake makes it all the more profound and ultimately can make the judges focus on that mistake alone, rather than everything else that was perfect. People around you are the same way and will overlook a lot of flaws and issues when you're smiling and positive.
Scott believes that happiness in life is a choice, and I agree with him. Overall, a wonderful book. Easy to read, entertaining and often profound. Look at your life, focus on the good, think positively and like Scott says, "Smile like Kristi Yamaguchi".
Thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishers for the opportunity to read this gem.
May 13, 2009
I realize I’m dating myself, but I remember watching the opening ceremonies of the 1980 Olympic games in Lake Placid and seeing Scott Hamilton leading the USA’s athletes and carrying the American flag. The commentators at the time called him “little Scottie Hamilton,” and they mentioned the physical challenges/health issues that he had overcome to reach the Olympic level of figure skating. It was an inspiring story to say the least. He won Olympic gold at the 1984 games in Sarajevo and went on to a very successful professional career. Several years ago he wrote an autobiography that I believe did quite well. This book, however, is more of an inspirational “if-I-can-do-it-so-can-you” type of book.
The Great Eight is how Hamilton refers to the eight suggestions he gives to readers, suggestions like “Fall, Get Up and Land Your First Jumps,” “Make Your Losses Your Wins” and “Win By Going Last.” There is nothing particularly profound or revolutionary in any of his suggestions, but learning a little more about his life is interesting. The writing is okay, more like reading the text of a series of motivational messages than great writing. There are grammatical mistakes, and the editing is…I’m sorry…poor, but his unending optimism is truly amazing.
Interestingly, considering my recent area of study, the chapter entitled “Keep the Ice Clear” deals with conflict resolution. It is basic but practical. My favorite quote from the entire book occurs on page 93:
Well said.
This is not a book that I would call a “must read,” but Scott Hamilton’s life and eternally positive attitude does make it very enjoyable.
The Great Eight is how Hamilton refers to the eight suggestions he gives to readers, suggestions like “Fall, Get Up and Land Your First Jumps,” “Make Your Losses Your Wins” and “Win By Going Last.” There is nothing particularly profound or revolutionary in any of his suggestions, but learning a little more about his life is interesting. The writing is okay, more like reading the text of a series of motivational messages than great writing. There are grammatical mistakes, and the editing is…I’m sorry…poor, but his unending optimism is truly amazing.
Interestingly, considering my recent area of study, the chapter entitled “Keep the Ice Clear” deals with conflict resolution. It is basic but practical. My favorite quote from the entire book occurs on page 93:
I strongly believe that the only disability in life is a bad attitude.
Well said.
This is not a book that I would call a “must read,” but Scott Hamilton’s life and eternally positive attitude does make it very enjoyable.
February 20, 2013
The Great Eight: How to Be Happy (Even When You Have Every Reason to be Miserable) is by skater Scott Hamilton. I am no athlete, and I really have very little interest in sports of any kind. However, I can work up some enthusiasm for figure skating and gymnastics (probably because they're really more similar to dance than to sports, but that's another topic).
In this book, Scott Hamilton shares his eight tips for being happy. It's also autobiographical (although that part is not complete; he's written another autobiography). Each tip has its own chapter:
1. Fall, Get Up, and Land Your First Jumps
2. Trust Your Almighty Coach
3. Make Your Losses Your Wins
4. Keep the Ice Clear
5. Think Positive, Laugh, and Smile Like Kristi Yamaguchi
6. Win by Going Last
7. Learn a New Routine
8. Stand in the Spotlight
You really can't find fault with Hamilton. Despite severe health issues in his childhood, and two battles with cancer as an adult, he has a great outlook and obviously practices what he preaches.
But, this book just didn't intrigue me. He would make his point in a chapter, and then seem to repeat it over and over (it struck me that perhaps he was doing this on purpose, to parallel the repetition of making figure 8's on the ice?). However, the effect was that I began skimming his points after he had made them a time or two.
Enjoy this book, but read it quickly. I think it could have been improved by being half its length, but at under 200 pages already, that probably wasn't going to happen.
In this book, Scott Hamilton shares his eight tips for being happy. It's also autobiographical (although that part is not complete; he's written another autobiography). Each tip has its own chapter:
1. Fall, Get Up, and Land Your First Jumps
2. Trust Your Almighty Coach
3. Make Your Losses Your Wins
4. Keep the Ice Clear
5. Think Positive, Laugh, and Smile Like Kristi Yamaguchi
6. Win by Going Last
7. Learn a New Routine
8. Stand in the Spotlight
You really can't find fault with Hamilton. Despite severe health issues in his childhood, and two battles with cancer as an adult, he has a great outlook and obviously practices what he preaches.
But, this book just didn't intrigue me. He would make his point in a chapter, and then seem to repeat it over and over (it struck me that perhaps he was doing this on purpose, to parallel the repetition of making figure 8's on the ice?). However, the effect was that I began skimming his points after he had made them a time or two.
Enjoy this book, but read it quickly. I think it could have been improved by being half its length, but at under 200 pages already, that probably wasn't going to happen.
August 7, 2023
My wife and I heard Scott Hamilton speak at a keynote address at RootsTech. I was very impressed, and wanted to remember what I had heard. So I read this book. He has another book that just came out in February 2018. (Finish First: Winning Changes Everything)
"Assuming you've read this book chronologically, you've already learned nearly everything you need to know about how to be happy. The only thing left is to apply these principles to your daily life with the focus, discipline, and dedication of a championship figure skater."
"You are the secret to finding happiness. You hold the keys to unlocking the door to a happier life. It's time for you to step into the spotlight." (Page 163)
"Fall, get up, and land your first Jumps
Trust your almighty Coach
Make your losses your wins
Keep the ice clear
Thank positive, laugh, and smile like Kristi Yamaguchi
Win by going last
Learn a new routine" (Page 164)
Eighth, apply what you have learned, and do the work that it take to look at life like an optimist.
"There are a lot of quick schemes out there. Get rich quick. Get thin quick. Get out of debt quick. You name it, and it seems someone is trying to sell us on the idea that we can get things done quickly. But in my experience, anything truly worth having takes commitment to it over a long period of time before you can get it." (Page 173)
"Assuming you've read this book chronologically, you've already learned nearly everything you need to know about how to be happy. The only thing left is to apply these principles to your daily life with the focus, discipline, and dedication of a championship figure skater."
"You are the secret to finding happiness. You hold the keys to unlocking the door to a happier life. It's time for you to step into the spotlight." (Page 163)
"Fall, get up, and land your first Jumps
Trust your almighty Coach
Make your losses your wins
Keep the ice clear
Thank positive, laugh, and smile like Kristi Yamaguchi
Win by going last
Learn a new routine" (Page 164)
Eighth, apply what you have learned, and do the work that it take to look at life like an optimist.
"There are a lot of quick schemes out there. Get rich quick. Get thin quick. Get out of debt quick. You name it, and it seems someone is trying to sell us on the idea that we can get things done quickly. But in my experience, anything truly worth having takes commitment to it over a long period of time before you can get it." (Page 173)
March 22, 2009
I chose to read this book as part of my commitment to be a reviewer for Thomas Nelson Publishers. I really enjoyed this book. I didn’t really have any idea what it was about, but I did know the author was a figure skater. Since optimisim and being happy are traits that I cherish, I was excited to find out that this was what the book was about.
Scott shares life experiences and “stories” to the eight things one must do to be happy. These things include the following:
1. Fall, Get Up, and Land your First Jumps
2. Trust your Almighty Coach
3. Make your Losses Your Wins
4. Keep the Ice Clear
5. Think Positive, Laugh, and Smile like Kristi Yamaguchi
6. Win by Going Last
7. Learn a New Routine
8. Stand in the Spotlight
I read many books. My favorite chapter was Chapter 2. Scott explained that just like a real coach, God can be your coach in real life. I know this to be true, that God truly is our coach in life. I also liked how Scott incorporated various inspirational quotes in the margins. Nothing he said was really “new” information, but I liked the simple way he used his life experiences to show how everyone has a hard life, but despite hardships, happiness is a choice. I had no idea he had been through cancer and a brain tumor. I especially liked how Scott said your happiness can still remain constant, despite what others think of you, your circumstances, or your challenges. Overall, very good read.
Scott shares life experiences and “stories” to the eight things one must do to be happy. These things include the following:
1. Fall, Get Up, and Land your First Jumps
2. Trust your Almighty Coach
3. Make your Losses Your Wins
4. Keep the Ice Clear
5. Think Positive, Laugh, and Smile like Kristi Yamaguchi
6. Win by Going Last
7. Learn a New Routine
8. Stand in the Spotlight
I read many books. My favorite chapter was Chapter 2. Scott explained that just like a real coach, God can be your coach in real life. I know this to be true, that God truly is our coach in life. I also liked how Scott incorporated various inspirational quotes in the margins. Nothing he said was really “new” information, but I liked the simple way he used his life experiences to show how everyone has a hard life, but despite hardships, happiness is a choice. I had no idea he had been through cancer and a brain tumor. I especially liked how Scott said your happiness can still remain constant, despite what others think of you, your circumstances, or your challenges. Overall, very good read.
March 7, 2009
What an inspiring read!
I am (was) an avid figure skating fan. I have watched figure skating since just after the Battle of the Brians back in 1988. As a Canadian, I have followed the careers of Elizabeth Manley, Brian Orser, Kurt Browning, Sale and Pelletier, Bourne and Kratz and Elvis Stoiko. But, I also thoroughly enjoyed watching other skaters, and Scott Hamilton has always been one of my favorites. So, when this book came up as a choice to review, I didn’t hesitate.
I was hoping to read a book that was heartfelt, an extension of the man I saw perform on the ice, and a personal testimony of how he found the Lord. I wasn’t disappointed.
This book takes you behind the scenes. Shows you the struggles that Scott overcame to become the best in the world.
In eight simple steps, based on the compulsory figure 8’s he was forced to skate when he first stepped on the ice, Scott shows us how he overcame illness after illness, and struggle after struggle, to find himself at the foot of the cross, and realize his potential as a God-centered individual.
Like for all of us, Scott readily admits that his battle isn’t over, but with these eight secrets on how to be happy even when you have every reason to be miserable, we can learn from his experiences and keep smiling, keep trusting the Almighty Coach….
Thank you, Scott, for opening up your lives to us.
I am (was) an avid figure skating fan. I have watched figure skating since just after the Battle of the Brians back in 1988. As a Canadian, I have followed the careers of Elizabeth Manley, Brian Orser, Kurt Browning, Sale and Pelletier, Bourne and Kratz and Elvis Stoiko. But, I also thoroughly enjoyed watching other skaters, and Scott Hamilton has always been one of my favorites. So, when this book came up as a choice to review, I didn’t hesitate.
I was hoping to read a book that was heartfelt, an extension of the man I saw perform on the ice, and a personal testimony of how he found the Lord. I wasn’t disappointed.
This book takes you behind the scenes. Shows you the struggles that Scott overcame to become the best in the world.
In eight simple steps, based on the compulsory figure 8’s he was forced to skate when he first stepped on the ice, Scott shows us how he overcame illness after illness, and struggle after struggle, to find himself at the foot of the cross, and realize his potential as a God-centered individual.
Like for all of us, Scott readily admits that his battle isn’t over, but with these eight secrets on how to be happy even when you have every reason to be miserable, we can learn from his experiences and keep smiling, keep trusting the Almighty Coach….
Thank you, Scott, for opening up your lives to us.
March 11, 2010
What I remember best about Scott Hamilton was every time he finished a performance he left the ice with such a huge smile covering his face, I couldn't help but grin back at the television screen. It's fitting that he's written a book about achieving happiness.
The Great Eight covers eight principles to overcoming adversity. Scott Hamilton parallels this strategy with his own experiences on and off the ice. These experiences include his journey into professional skating, his struggle with disease, dealing with loss, relationships, and finding faith. The book is inspiring, insightful, and best of all, humorous. (The chapter on humor was my favorite).
The style of the book is a bit of a contradiction in that it covers Scott's strategy using the bullet point method, yet rambles on a bit as Scott applies his personal experiences to each topic. It's an enjoyable read though, and since I'm a yakker who enjoys exploring word tangents, I found this to be a fun approach to a serious subject.
I have to say, reading this really made me wish I could meet Scott Hamilton. I appreciate his candidness in sharing some very personal experiences, and I'm also touched by his expression of Faith. I guess there's something to this book because I finished it with a smile on my face. That man is contagious!
I highly recommend, The Great Eight.
The Great Eight covers eight principles to overcoming adversity. Scott Hamilton parallels this strategy with his own experiences on and off the ice. These experiences include his journey into professional skating, his struggle with disease, dealing with loss, relationships, and finding faith. The book is inspiring, insightful, and best of all, humorous. (The chapter on humor was my favorite).
The style of the book is a bit of a contradiction in that it covers Scott's strategy using the bullet point method, yet rambles on a bit as Scott applies his personal experiences to each topic. It's an enjoyable read though, and since I'm a yakker who enjoys exploring word tangents, I found this to be a fun approach to a serious subject.
I have to say, reading this really made me wish I could meet Scott Hamilton. I appreciate his candidness in sharing some very personal experiences, and I'm also touched by his expression of Faith. I guess there's something to this book because I finished it with a smile on my face. That man is contagious!
I highly recommend, The Great Eight.
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