John Fry’s numerous years in the ski industry (specifically publications and magazines) has provided a wealth of knowledge about the sport and recreational activity of skiing. What was to become The Story of Modern Skiing was originally pitched to publishers by Fry as a memoir of his experiences in the ski industry. University Press of New England had a different idea and directed Fry to draw on his vast experiences to write a comprehensive history of modern skiing from the North American perspective.

The book is well arranged and somewhat linear despite the historical range of some topics which suggests editorial genius to keep the narrative linear. A brief introduction on how skiing made its way to North America begins the book; however, most of the history details skiing from the beginning of lift serviced skiing via rope tows onward. All aspects of the sport are detailed from equipment, technique, and teaching through competition, resort development, alternative and so called extreme pursuits, and the industry and business of the sport. The major personalities to effect the sport are sprinkled throughout the book where appropriate with colorful commentary.

One major theme that John Fry keeps coming back to is that the skiing industry’s developments were largely driven by the competitive aspects of the activity. Racers demanded better equipment and sought out better technique which later caught on with the rest of the industry. Another theme which comes up less frequently but is just as important is the industry thrives off of youthful influences, new ideas, and changing demographics. Issues of expense are also brought up on many occasions highlighting that skiing has always been an expensive sport, but some expenses have been harder to deal with at certain economic times.

John Fry is an excellent writer and brings history alive in The Story of Modern Skiing. Due to the volume of history that was condensed into a history spanning eighty years and more, many historical titbits are misleading, not entirely accurate, or missing vital background information to paint an accurate picture. These omissions are few and far between with a generally balanced and well told story of how the activity and sport progressed and occasionally regressed throughout the twentieth century setting the stage for an interesting and turbulent future.