I couldn't put this book down!!

I have been acquainted with Mark for a couple of years and, like many, have seen him speak on a number of occasions. I had no idea that he could be EVEN MORE entertaining and inspirational in print than in person.

His stories provided a unique insight not merely into growing up gay, but into growing up as a gay male in Canada. He also provides insight into the "mixed blessing" of being an Olympic gold medallist and being a celebrity while being gay (with or without the closet). Outside of the substance of his stories, it's his amazing story telling ability that truly draws you in.

It is obvious that it took much courage on Mark's part to write this book as he truly put himself "out there" in writing it.

This is a fanstastic read - I highly recommend it!

I saw Mark recently on a talk show and thought his book sounded interesting, so I bought it thinking I would read it eventually. I sat down and casually read the first story, and literally could not put the book down. It was insightful, revealing, inspiring and touching. My only regret was that he didn't speak much about the world of swimming, perhaps because he had already done that in an earlier book. His stories are rich, funny, and remarkably well written. I learned a lot about what it must have been like growing up gay, but what surprised me was how much I saw myself in his stories. (I am a heterosexual woman!) I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to have a fantastic read. It was deeply personal, original and set against events like the Olympics and international Olympic Committee scandal. Gripping!

An average book written by a guy who is having a second coming out. The first half is a rehash of his first book written after his gold medal win in 1992, leading to his first coming out in Toronto at the turn of the millenium. The second half is about his falling out with the Olympic Movement and his second coming out in Montreal as a drag queen fan and his involvement in the Out Games. There is a lot of names dropping and a generous serving of self promotion. Your teenage girl and boys may enjoy it.

I just finished reading Inside Out. I must say that I was impressed. I had heard the author, Mark Tewksbury, give two speeches before and had found him to be a great storyteller: entertaining, interesting, funny and genuine. Well, the book had me enthralled. I finished it in 24 hours. I could not put it down. This is a great look at the inner workings of the big business of international sports, complete with the trappings of power and fame. I laughed out loud and got a knot in my throat more than a few times. The author shares some great insights in human nature and acceptance of diversity. It is a fascinating read and I highly recommend it to anyone with an open mind that wants to know more about what it is like to grow up in an "invisible" minority. It took a lot of guts and courage for Mark to have accomplished what he has then revealling it to the world. Chapeau!