The son of a single mother and born in a run-down housing project, American athlete Lance Armstrong emerged from decidedly modest beginnings. Four decades later, Armstrong has established himself as not only one of the world's greatest and most successful athletes, but also as an activist for charitable causes. Through the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Armstrong supports cancer research and treatment while he serves as the ultimate inspiration for other athletes and cancer survivors.

"Lance Armstrong: A Biography" provides a detailed treatment of Armstrong's life, from the lasting...