Is there a way to find truth in the stuff of legend? You may think you know André the Giant — but who was André Roussimoff? 

This comprehensive biography addresses theburning questions, outrageous stories, and common misconceptions about his height,his weight, his drawing power as a superstar, and his seemingly unparalleled capacityfor food and alcohol. But more importantly, The Eighth Wonder of the World: The True Story of André the Giant transports readers beyond the smoke and mirrors of professional wrestling into the life of a real man.

Born in France, André worked on his family's farm until he was 18, when he moved toParis to pursue professional wrestling. A truly extraordinary figure, André went on to become an international icon and world traveler, all while battling acromegaly. While his disorder is what made him a giant and a household name, it's also what caused his untimely death at 46. 

With exhaustive research, exclusive interviews with family and friends, and an exploration of André's amazing in-ring career and the indelible mark he left on pop culture, Laprade and Hébert have crafted the most complete portrait of a modern-day mythical being. 

'This book does his career and life justice and makes up for a lot of distortion both have suffered through over the years.' — Web is Jericho