Autobiography: sport Books

Book SynopsisTrue story of a wee Glasgow guy with no formal school qualifications, who ends up running a business in Australia and New Zealand. Many famous people met along the way.

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Book Synopsis''Adrian has a unique gift for understanding drivers and racing cars. He is ultra competitive but never forgets to have fun. An immensely likeable man.'' Damon HillThe world's foremost designer in Formula One, Adrian Newey OBE is arguably one of Britain's greatest engineers and this is his fascinating, powerful memoir.How to Build a Car explores the story of Adrian's unrivalled 36-year career in Formula One through the prism of the cars he has designed, the drivers he has worked alongside and the races in which he's been involved.A true engineering genius, even in adolescence Adrian's thoughts naturally emerged in shape and form he began sketching his own car designs at the age of 12 and took a welding course in his school summer holidays. From his early career in IndyCar racing and on to his unparalleled success in Formula One, we learn in comprehensive, engaging and highly entertaining detail how a car actually works. Adrian has designed for the likes of Mario Andretti, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, Damon Hill, David Coulthard, Mika Hakkinen, Mark Webber, Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, always with a shark-like purity of purpose: to make the car go faster. And while his career has been marked by unbelievable triumphs, there have also been deep tragedies; most notably Ayrton Senna's death during his time at Williams in 1994.Beautifully illustrated with never-before-seen drawings, How to Build a Car encapsulates, through Adrian's remarkable life story, precisely what makes Formula One so thrilling its potential for the total synchronicity of man and machine, the perfect combination of style, efficiency and speed.Trade Review‘Quite superb…This book pulls off the remarkable feat of being a first-class autobiography and textbook all in one. For those studying the evolution of the F1 car between the late ‘80s and now, it decodes all the mysteries previously hidden by competitive secrecy while revealing the man behind most of the greatest cars of that time period.’ Motorsport Online ‘In this gripping memoir, Newey reveals the highs and lows of his race to the top.’ Mail on Sunday Books of the Year ‘The greatest Formula One designer of his – or any other – age.’ Sunday Times ‘Newey has a legitimate claim on the title of "Britain’s greatest living engineer".’ Daily Telegraph ‘Adrian Newey has created more winners than all the super-brain computers in Formula One put together.’ The Times ‘Creative genius… the leading Formula One designer of his generation… refreshingly honest.’ Guardian ‘The most accomplished man in the world’s most glamorous sport… The Michelangelo of motorsport.’ New Yorker ‘If you love finding out how things work, if you’re a car nut, if you’re intrigued by the sport’s politics and even if your interest in Formula 1 is but a passing one, you absolutely must read this book.’ Octane Magazine ‘How to Build a Car encapsulates through Adrian’s remarkable life story, precisely what makes Formula 1 so thrilling.’ Car Mechanic ‘How to Build a Car gives a tremendous insight…fantastically entertaining.’ Daily Express ‘Honest…hilarious…inspirational.’ Motorsport Magazine ‘Illuminating reading.’ F1 Racing Magazine ‘How to Build a Car is an emphatic hit. It’s one of the most enjoyable F1 books I’ve read in quite some time.’ WTF1 ‘How to Build a Car is an essential read for all fans of motor racing.’ F1 Fanatic ‘Adrian Newey is one of Formula 1’s finest technical brains… The prose is sharp, punchy… you learn almost without realising.’ Autosport

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Book SynopsisMichael R. Payneâs remarkable autobiography takes readers inside the transformation of global sport from a gentlemanâs pastime into a trillion-dollar industry. One of the last true insiders, Payne delivers a fast-paced, razor-sharp dissection of the deals, scandals, and innovations that defined the past fifty years.

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Book SynopsisEric Nicolson is a journalist from Perth, Scotland who has been a sports editor and writer with The Courier newspaper since the mid-1990s. He has covered golf's Ryder Cup and Open Championship, the Commonwealth Games, the Davis Cup in tennis, the finals of a football World Cup and European Championship and more Scottish club matches than he cares to remember, including St Johnstone FC's golden era of three national trophy wins. Follow him on Twitter: @C_ENicolson

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Book SynopsisLewis Hamilton's explosive arrival on the Formula 1 scene has made front-page headlines. In My Story, for the first time Lewis opens up about his stunning debut season in grand prix racing, as well as his dad Anthony, his home life and his early years. The only book with the real story, as told by Lewis.In his first season in F1, Lewis Hamilton thrilled the world of motor racing by finishing on the podium in his first nine consecutive races the first driver to do so in the sport''s 57-year history and drove to victories in Canada, America, Hungary and Japan. But bare statistics alone do scant justice to the amazing impact Lewis Hamilton has had on the sporting landscape. My Story gives the real account from Lewis himself, as he sets the record straight about his colourful life on and off the track.Given a grounded upbringing by his dedicated father in unremarkable Stevenage, Lewis tells about how he first tried out go-karting while on a cut-price family holiday in Ibiza. In his book he gives the real version of events at a motor sport dinner where, as a nine-year-old wearing a borrowed suit, he approached McLaren team boss Ron Dennis with the immortal words that were to change his life forever.He rose rapidly through the Junior and Formula ranks, dominating every series with his raw speed and canny race craft. Here Lewis candidly recalls those key moments that shaped his career and went some way towards compensating for the sacrifices made by his father Anthony in getting his son to the top.Lewis also charts how he got into the sport and was signed up by Ron Dennis, what motivates him, who are his closest friends, how he copes with the constant travelling, and the physical and mental challenges of driving a state-of-the-art Formula 1 car. He looks back in detail at the 2007 World Championship the race wins, the frightening crash in Germany, his intense rivalry with team-mate Fernando Alonso, his special relationship with Ron Dennis, and the furore over the Ferrari allegations right up to the dramatic last race of the season in Brazil.Trade Review‘Lewis will create the benchmark for a whole generation of drivers…He is already turning television viewers back on to motor racing’ Jackie Stewart ‘Lewis Hamilton is a phenomenon – nobody has come into the sport and done what he’s done’ Murray Walker Few 22-year-olds have achieved enough to warrant 290 pages of reminiscence, but Hamilton is the exeption.' 'Hamilton is not only outstandingly gifted as a racing driver, he is genuinely articulate and charming.' The Daily Telegraph

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Book SynopsisNiki Lauda drove a car for sport, but crossed the line between life and death and fought back to even greater glory. Even people who know nothing of Formula One have heard of his crash at Nurburgring in 1976, when we was dragged from the inferno of his Ferrari so badly injured he was given the last rites. Within 33 days, he was racing again at Monza. His wounds bled, he had no eyelids. He was terrified. A year later, he reclaimed his World Championship title.In To Hell and Back he reveals how he battled fear to stage a comeback that seemed beyond human endurance. Then it’s Lauda vs Hunt, an epic rivalry later dramatized in 2013’s Hollywood blockbuster Rush, and he looks back on the strict childhood and parental disapproval that he believes gave him an ‘addiction to excellence’. There’ll never be another like him.

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Book SynopsisForged by Speed is mountain biking legend Steve Peat's incredible life story, from the Steel City of Sheffield to the top step of the world championship podium. Honest, compelling and funny, it is the autobiography of a British sporting legend.

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Book SynopsisOisin Murphy grew up in Killarney in Ireland. He started riding ponies from the age of 4 and competed in show jumping before switching to flat racing. He has won two British Classics and a number of Group 1 races. He has been British Champion Jockey in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2024.

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Book Synopsis‘I rode back down the hill to the athlete’s village. Some of Team Scotland had been watching on the big screen and I arrived to hugs of congratulations. I went inside for a shower and ceremoniously dropped my heart rate monitor into the bin. It was the first day of the rest of my life.’ A little before 1.30 p.m. on Sunday 21 July 2013, Lee Craigie crossed the finish line at Cathkin Braes in the southern outskirts of Glasgow several minutes ahead of her nearest competitor to become the British cross-country mountain bike champion. Lee’s win was the culmination of seven years of training and sacrifice, but it marked the beginning of the end of her competitive career; less than a year later, at the same venue, this time representing her native Scotland at the Commonwealth Games, she crossed the line and quit professional bike racing for good. Lee Craigie is one of Scotland’s great bike racers, yet she has accomplished much more since retiring. In Other Ways to Win she tells her story of growing up near Glasgow and discovering the freedom of cycling – skipping French lessons and heading off into the Campsie Fells to see just how far she could ride. These teenage adventures established cycling as the thread which would run through her life – not only through her racing life and into a new life of two-wheeled adventure, but also through the positive impact she would have on the lives of others, particularly encouraging other women through her work with the Adventure Syndicate. Written with breathtaking honesty, she recounts epic adventures along the Tour Divide, Silk Road and the Highland Trail 550, and examines themes of friendship, loss, identity and the power of the outdoors – and, of course, cycling. Lee Craigie’s story is a welcome reminder that there is more than one way to win at cycling – and life.

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Book Synopsis**THE INSTANT NUMBER ONE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER**THE BOOK COVERED ON SEASON SIX OF DRIVE TO SURVIVE ON NETFLIXIncludes a BRAND NEW chapter with Guenther's review of the 2023 Formula 1 season.''Gripping to read. Funny, real, exciting. It''s a brilliant book.'' - Chris Evans---''People talk about football managers being under pressure. Trust me, that''s nothing. Pressure is watching one of your drivers hit a barrier at 190mph and exploding before your eyes...''Guenther Steiner is one of motor racing''s biggest and most celebrated characters, known to millions for his show-stealing appearances on Netflix''s hugely popular fly on the wall series, Drive to Survive.In Surviving to Drive, the Haas team principal takes readers inside his Formula 1 team for the entirety of the 2022 season, giving an unobstructed view of what really takes place behind the scenes. Through this unique lens, Guenther takes us on the thrilling rollercoaster of life at the heart of high stakes motor racing.Packed full of twists and turns, from hiring and firing drivers, balancing books, pre-season preparations, the design, launch and testing of a car - and of course, the race calendar itself - this is the first time that an F1 team has allowed an acting team principal to tell the full story of a whole season.Uncompromising and searingly honest, told in Steiner''s inimitable style, this is a fascinating and hugely entertaining account of the realities of running a Formula 1 team.---''Fearless and candid... A gleeful guide to a bonkers sport from a loveable rogue insider.'' - The Times''Very colourful. Like having a conversation with Steiner.'' - Radio 4, TodayNumber 1 Sunday Times Bestseller, April 2023

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Book SynopsisTHE NO. 1 BESTSELLER''Well worth a read if you want the inside track on life on the lower rungs of the tennis circuit. Warts and all.'' Judy Murray''As elegant and powerful as a Federer backhand ... It's Kitchen Confidential for tennis.'' Ed Caesar''A really wonderful read ... Conor Niland has delivered an all-timer for tennis and sports journalism'' Ashlee Vance''Conor Niland may only have managed a career-high ranking of 129 only? that is some achievement in itself! but The Racket, his account of how he managed this, is up there with the best half-dozen books on tennis ever written.'' Geoff DyerGenuinely such a brilliant book, a brilliant read' Ciarán Murphy, Second Captains PodcastOne of the best Irish sports books of the last decade' Kieran Shannon, Irish Examiner''If it''s not a contender for Sports Book

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Book SynopsisWhat happened to Joe, and how the pair dealt with the psychological traumas that resulted when Simon was forced into the appalling decision to cut the rope, makes not only an epic of survival but a compelling testament of friendship.Trade ReviewA brilliant, vivd, gripping, heart-stopping account of their terrifying adventure... Superbly written * Sunday Express *One of the absolute classics of mountaineering...a document of psychological, even philosophical witness of the rarest compulsion -- George Steiner * Sunday Times *On every level it is an outstanding literary achievement * Independent *A quite extraordinary and moving book...Touching the Void touches the Great Questions in an understated yet utterly compelling way * Guardian *A truly astonishing account of suffering and fortitude...the narrative acquires an irresistible force, carrying all before it * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisBetween 1997 and 2014, Tom Kristensen won the world’s toughest motor race, the Le Mans 24 Hours, a record nine times and finished on the podium on five more occasions. Every time his car made it to the finish, in fact, he was in the top three. It is no wonder that this great sports car driver is known as ‘Mr Le Mans’ to motorsport fans around the world. Now retired from racing, Kristensen shares in this book his deepest personal reflections and insights from inside and outside the cockpit. He looks back on more than 30 years spent striving for perfection in racing and tells of the battles and setbacks that sometimes seemed impossible to overcome, including a terrible accident in 2007. Voted ‘Sports Book of the Year’ when originally published in Kristensen’s native Denmark, this thoughtful memoir is now available in English.

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Book SynopsisA footballing road trip through the 2024/25 FA Cup season with bestselling author Felix White, travelling across the vast and varied landscape of English football - from Leamington to Liverpool, from Maidenhead United to Manchester City.Each chapter chronicles a new match as Felix faithfully follows the winning team to the next round, carrying him across the country through the changing seasons and the breadth of England, until the pinnacle of the FA Cup final. From the stricken, chaotic local pitches to the game''s extremely lucrative, globally renowned elite, Felix delves into the enduring myths and elusive magic of the game, while confronting its deeper imbalances.From the burger stalls to the stands, to the dug-out, the changing rooms, and even the referee''s office, this book opens up the psyche of a nation that has more football teams than any other - where each one is a source of pride, despair and obsession. Through intimate conversations with fans, players, and staff, and poetic reflections, Felix uncovers the chaos, beauty, and raw passion that define the sport, offering an unprecedented and exhaustive view of modern English football.

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Book SynopsisIn national treasure Dame Kelly Holmes' most personal book yet, she tells the true story behind her extraordinary life from army recruit to Olympic hero and much- loved TV personality.

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Book SynopsisThe official celebration of Liverpool FC's 20 league titles, told in the club's own words. The 2024-2025 season was extraordinary for Liverpool FC with new manager Arne Slot leading the team to secure its 20th top-flight title. In this beautifully illustrated book, the club's official celebration of a truly historic season, Liverpool FC vividly recounts a record-breaking journey to success that began over 125 years ago. The story of the club's championship-winning seasons from 1901-2025 is detailed in full, while exclusive interviews from LFC's men's first team players take fans behind the scenes and into the pivotal moments that have enabled the club to finish at the top of the table for the 20th time. Complete with a foreword from Slot and over 200 photographs, this is a remarkable narrative that captures an incredible legacy of footballing excellence and that at the end of a season that will be remembered for many years to come is an essential addition to the collection of every supporter.

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE TELEGRAPH RUGBY BOOK OF THE YEARThe truth about being a rugby player from the horsey's mouth.This book is not just about how a psychiatrist called Humphrey helped me get back on my horse and clippity-clop all the way to the World Cup semi-final in Japan. It's the story of how a fat kid who had to live up to the nickname Psycho grew up to play and party for over a decade with rugby's greatest pros and live weird and wonderful moments both in and out of the scrum. That's why I'm letting you read my diary on my weirdest days. You never know what you're going to get with me. From being locked in a police cell to singing Adele on Jonathan Ross (I'll let you decide which is worse), being kissed by a murderer on the number 51 bus to drug tests where clipboard-wielding men hover inches away from my naked genitalia, melting opponents in rucks, winning tackles, and generally losing blood, sweat and ears in the name of the great sport of rugby. This is how (not) to be a rugby player.Trade ReviewVery funny * The Guardian *A rollicking book covering everything from rituals to red mist, nudity to nicknames * Rubgy World *

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Book SynopsisSiya''s rise from humble beginnings to lifting that World Cup trophy is the stuff of fairytales.' MARCUS RASHFORDSiya Kolisi is a warrior on the field and an inspiration off it. This book is an extraordinary reminder of what can be achieved with inner belief and an indefatigable spirit.' JAY SHETTY''Siya''s story is well documented, and I am so impressed by the way he conducts himself. As the captain of his team and as a statesman he is measured and thoughtful. He is a leader in every way. An inspiration to a dynamic South African nation.'' EDDIE JONESFew people embody the tenacity of what the New South Africa stands for, like Siya does. His story mirrors the nations'; in its trials and tribulations and also in it's triumph against all odds. This is a real life heroes journey.' TREVOR NOAHThere is no doubt Siya has made a significant impact on World rugby, especially within South African rugby. [He] is passionate about changing people''s lives for the better and uses his position and status to do that.' MARO ITOJEBrilliant' THE TIMESMoving' THE GUARDIANHis truth. His story. In his words.There have been many comments made and books written about Siya Kolisi, captain of the Springboks, and the first black man to lead his country in over 128 years of South African rugby.But now, for the very first time, Siya Kolisi shares his story in an extraordinarily intimate memoir, charting his journey from being born into the impoverished Zwide township, to leading his proud nation to an astonishing victory at the Rugby World Cup in 2019.However, Rise is not simply a chronology of matches played and games won; it is an exploration of a man's race and his faith, a masterclass in attaining a positive mindset, and an inspirational reminder that it is possible to defy the odds, no matter how they are stacked against you.In 2020, partly in response to the pandemic, Siya and his wife, Rachel, launched The Kolisi Foundation, providing personal protective equipment to healthcare workers and delivering food parcels throughout South Africa.The title Rise is inspired by Siya's mother Phakama which translates to the book's name, as well as a celebration of his Xhosa heritage.Trade Review ‘Siya's rise from humble beginnings to lifting that World Cup trophy is the stuff of fairytales’ MARCUS RASHFORD 'Siya's story is well documented, and I am so impressed by the way he conducts himself. As the captain of his team and as a statesman he is measured and thoughtful. He is a leader in every way. An inspiration to a dynamic South African nation.' EDDIE JONES ‘Siya Kolisi is a warrior on the field and an inspiration off it. This book is an extraordinary reminder of what can be achieved with inner belief and an indefatigable spirit.’ JAY SHETTY ‘Siya embodies so much of what makes the South African spirit extraordinary – incredible resilience, strength, humanity and determination in the face of challenges. He is the type of exceptional human that makes me proud to be his fellow South African.’ CHARLIZE THERON ‘Few people embody the tenacity of what the New South Africa stands for, like Siya does. His story mirrors the nations’; in its trials and tribulations and also in it’s triumph against all odds. This is a real life heroes journey.’ TREVOR NOAH ‘There is no doubt Siya has made a significant impact on World rugby, especially within South African rugby. Being the first Black player to captain the Springboks is an incredible achievement and I am sure he has had to navigate tricky waters both personally and publicly in carrying out that task. Siya is passionate about changing people's lives for the better and uses his position and status to do that.’ MARO ITOJE ‘Brilliant’ THE TIMES ‘Moving’ THE GUARDIAN

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Book SynopsisWhen barefoot running guru Christopher McDougall takes in a neglected donkey, his aim is to get Sherman back to reasonable health. But Sherman is ill-tempered, obstinate and uncooperative - and it's clear his poor treatment has made him deeply fearful of humans. Christopher knows that donkeys need a purpose - they are working, pack animals - and so when he learns of the sport of Burro Racing or running with donkeys, he sets out to give Sherman something worth living for. With the aid of Christopher's menagerie on his farm in rural Pennsylvania, his wife Mika and their friends and neighbours including the local Amish population, Sherman begins to build trust in Christopher. To give him a purpose, they start to run together. But what Sherman gains in confidence and meaning is something we all need: a connection with nature, the outdoors, with movement. And as Christopher learns, the side benefits of exercise and animal contact are surprising, helping with mental and physical health in unexpected ways.Trade ReviewFrom the first page to the last, Running with Sherman is a delight, full of heart and hijinks and humour. I quickly fell in love with Sherman and the colorful cast of two- and four-legged characters that surrounded him. Christopher McDougall is a gifted storyteller who gets to the heart of the human-animal connection. -- John Grogan, author of Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World's Worst DogPraise for Born to Run: Part how-to manual, part scientific treatise but throughout a ripping yarn, this book will inspire everyone who reads it to think on their feet. * Independent *A fascinating and true adventure story, destined to become a classic -- Ranulph FiennesNot just a book for runners, but for anyone who has dreamed of venturing beyond their comfort zone -- Tim ButcherA really phenomenal book -- Jon StewartPraise for Natural Born Heroes: 'A fascinating edifice of ideas ... But the pleasures of the book are as much to do with the fascinating panoply of characters, war heroes all, British, Commonwealth and Cretan, whose exploits contributed so much to Hitler's downfall. * Independent *An undeniably ripping yarn. One for sofa surfers and adventurers alike. * Independent on Sunday *A marvellously eclectic book ... the perfect tonic for the paunchy, jaded He-Man in your life and comatose inner heroes everywhere * the Times *

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Book SynopsisUltrarunner Jen Scotney has achieved podium finishes in some of the UK's toughest races and now has her sights firmly set on the Pennine Way record. Running Through the Dark is much more than a running book, it is a story about resilience, about never giving up, and about battling through the night and always believing that there will be a new dawn.

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Book SynopsisAnd So I Run is a story about running. Engaging and relatable, Jamie Doward uses running as an escape, as a way to evade life's most painful realities. With the marathon at its heart, And So I Run speaks to all runners, offering a raw, witty and human exploration of how we cope, heal and keep on just putting one foot in front of the other.

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Book SynopsisThe first book by one of the most successful, respected and legendary football managers of all time, Arsene WengerTrade ReviewA well-paced and well-thought-out account of one of football's most iconic and influential figures, and entirely befitting of its remarkable author * Sports Gazette *A predictably brilliant insight into the mind of a man who has long treated football as a matter of, as he puts it, "life and death". His wit, empathy and unwavering principles have been common knowledge for decades, but never has his all-consuming dedication and obsession been on clearer display * Esquire *Opaqueness has never been this refreshing. It's honestly nice that this book has just been about the game and the human connections he made along the way. The moments that made Wenger, the good times and the achievements. In a world of sensationalism, public spats and calling out old foes, we can all learn something from that * FourFourTwo *As with his approach to on-field matters, this book puts in an impressive performance -- Damien O'Meara * RTE *A surprisingly honest self-portrait of an obsessive, driven man, who decided that the game really could be beautiful, and was prepared to sacrifice himself to that belief * TLS *

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Book SynopsisRevelatory memoir from the greatest sportsman in the world today and a fascinating insight into the making of a championTrade ReviewTake a glimpse behind the curtain of both his private and professional life - it's as exciting as Rafa himself * Woman's Own *A winner * Independent *Rafa: My Story is a terrific sporting memoir, full of memorable anecdotes and stamped with the authority of a ghostwriter who earned the complete trust of his subject. It is hard to imagine how Nadal could have done any more to get the best out of his own raw material. And it is to Carlin's enourmous credit that the book is a true reflection of the man, in every sense -- Ed Smith * New Statesman *Rafa: My Story is a terrific sporting memoir, full of memorable anecdotes and stamped with the authority of a ghostwriter who earned the complete trust of his subject. It is hard to imagine how Nadal could have done any more to get the best out of his own raw material. And it is to Carlin's enourmous credit that the book is a true reflection of the man, in every sense -- Ed Smith * New Statesman *Between them they have served up a winner -- Simon Redfern * Independent *Take a glimpse behind the curtain of both his private and professional life - it's as exciting as Rafa himself * Woman's Own *

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Book SynopsisA brilliant read.''SHAY GIVENA must-read for any Newcastle fan.''ALAN SHEARERA triumph... Beautifully written.''LES FERDINANDFASCINATING CHRONICLES OF AN UTTERLY UNIQUE LIFE IN FOOTBALL AND 18 YEARS AT NEWCASTLE UNITED.Once Upon a Toon offers a unique perspective on life behind the scenes at one of England's most famous football clubs. No other individual has had the immense privilege of working at Newcastle United in the capacity that Paul Ferris once did: as a player between 1981 and 1986, as a physiotherapist between 1993 and 2006, and finally as a key member of Alan Shearer's management team in 2009.This is a light-hearted, often hilarious and sometimes unbelievable retelling of the events Paul experienced and characters he encountered. His numerous, otherwise forgotten, tales from the bygone era of 1980s football include the likes of Kevin Keegan, Jack Charlton, Arthur Cox, Paul Gascoigne, Peter Beardsley, George Best and more. Ferris's chronicles from 18 years at Newcastle United also feature managers such as Graeme Souness and Sir Bobby Robson, the tumultuous 19932006 period and Alan Shearer's ill-fated short tenure.If you are a Newcastle United supporter, football fan or loved The Boy on the Shed, this book is the ultimate way to revisit the club's precious glory days of football.

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Book SynopsisFebruary 2022. David Mackinnon fell down a flight of stairs and the injuries he sustained almost cost him his life. During his recovery, David reflected on his life and reconciled some of the episodes from his football career that still weighed heavy on his mind. The result is Slide Tackles and Boardroom Battles, the incredible story of Glasgow-born David Donaldson Mackinnon. Beginning his career with Arsenal, David spent four years at Highbury where he was taken under the wing of the legendary Alan Ball. After spells at Dundee and Partick Thistle, Mackinnon eventually fulfilled a lifelong dream of playing for his boyhood heroes Glasgow Rangers for four years, making almost two hundred appearances, before a knee injury forced him to revert to part-time football. But David’s story doesn’t end there. He netted the decisive penalty kick when Kilmarnock won promotion to the First Division in 1990 and, after hanging up his boots Mackinnon embarked on a successful business career before returning to football, taking on executive roles with Clyde, Kilmarnock, Dundee, Hamilton Academical, and Greenock Morton. In the latter role, Mackinnon was a key protagonist in the voting fiasco that controversially ended the Scottish football season during the COVID 19 pandemic. Open, honest, and insightful, Slide Tackles and Boardroom Battles reveals the challenges Mackinnon has faced during his eventful career in football and business and the often-brutal impact these have had on his physical and mental health and well-being. Slide Tackles and Boardroom Battles isn’t simply a football book. It’s a memoir that will raise awareness of the trials and tribulations footballers face, while also giving a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on the business side of the game. Mackinnon’s story, told with refreshing sincerity, is a must-read for all fans of the beautiful game.Trade Review"A tender memoir that is so much more than the normal footballer's autobiography. Revelations concerning Mackinnon's own on-going health battles are woven into memories of a career at the cutting edge of the game, both on the park and off it." Alan Pattullo The Scotsman

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Book Synopsis''Steeped in glory, loved by players for his light touch, he is probably the most coveted coach in the world.'' - Financial Times''a treasury of anecdote and insight'' - The Guardian ''Quiet Leadership contains page upon page of insight into his methods from Cristiano Ronaldo, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, John Terry and more''. - Sport MagazineCarlo Ancelotti is one of the greatest managers of all time, with five Champions League titles to his name. Yet his approach could not be further from the aggressive theatricals favoured by many of his rivals. His understated style has earned him the fierce loyalty of players like David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Cristiano Ronaldo. In Quiet Leadership, Ancelotti reveals the full, riveting story of his managerial career - his methods, mentors, mistakes and triumphs - and takes us inside the dressing room to trace the characters, challenges and decisions that have shaped him. The result is both a scintillating memoir and a rare insight into the business of leadership.Trade ReviewA treasury of anecdote and insight * The Guardian *He's a great coach and an amazing person -- Cristiano RonaldoThere is nobody better than this international crisis manager to explain how to handle superstar players (Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale), difficult club presidents (Silvio Berlusconi and Roman Abramovich) and hysterical media -- Simon Kuper * Financial Times *Ancelotti is Europe's greatest manager -- Paul Hayward * Telegraph *enjoyable and insightful * Financial Times Review *Steeped in glory, loved by players for his light touch, he is probably the most coveted coach in the world. * Lunch with the FT *Page upon page of insight * Sport *

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Book SynopsisHe is one of the most gifted men ever to step onto a tennis court, but from early childhood Andre Agassi hated the game. Now, in his frank and revealing autobiography, Agassi tells the story of a life framed by triumphs, obsession and personal struggles. He is one of the most beloved athletes in history and one of the most gifted men ever to step onto a tennis court - but from early childhood Andre Agassi hated the game. Coaxed to swing a racket while still in the crib, forced to hit hundreds of balls a day while still in grade school, Agassi resented the constant pressure even as he drove himself to become a prodigy, an inner conflict that would define him. Now, in his beautiful, haunting autobiography, Agassi tells the story of a life framed by such conflicts. Agassi makes us feel his panic as an undersized seven-year-old in Las Vegas, practicing all day under the obsessive gaze of his violent father. We see him at thirteen, banished to a Florida tennis camp. Lonely, scared, a ninth-Trade Review‘engaging, thrilling…a superbly written book’–Michael Atherton, The Times ‘stunningly good’–Lynne Truss, The Times ‘Honest in a way that such books seldom are . . . An uncommonly well-written sports memoir.’-Charles McGrath, The New York Times ‘Agassi weaves a fascinating tale of professional tennis and personal adversity . . . His tale shows that success is measured both on and off the court.’–Doree Shafrir, New York Post ‘An ace autobiography’–London Lite

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Book Synopsis'Sexton will go down as Ireland's greatest ever player' Gordon D'Arcy, Irish TimesNo Irish rugby player has ever achieved more, or been a source of more inspiration to teammates and fans alike, than Johnny Sexton. In his hotly anticipated autobiography, Johnny tells the story of his life and explores the sources of his unmatched will to win. The Sexton era was marked by four European Cups, four Six Nations championships (including two Grand Slams), a series win in New Zealand, two stints for Ireland at number 1 in the world, and the World Player of the Year award. Always outspoken on and off the field, Sexton offers an honest look at his childhood, his seemingly inauspicious early experiences in club and professional rugby, his relationships with key teammates and coaches (including Brian O'Driscoll, Paul O'Connell, Ronan O'Gara, Joe Schmidt and Andy Farrell), and his ideas about the game. Obsessed is more than just a brilliantly detailed account of a legendary playing career. It is also a work of deep self-exploration, tracing the psychological arc of a player who almost always felt embattled, who struggled with self-doubt, and who was still learning new lessons about being a team-mate and a leader into his late thirties. Intense, witty, perceptive and frank, Obsessed is an autobiography worthy of its author and the essential chronicle of an extraordinary era in Irish rugby. 'The best ever Irish player to play the game' Andy FarrellSexton is on that rarefied plane of athlete where even his mere presence can feel quietly decisive.' Jonathan Liew, Guardian

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Book Synopsis''Amazingly detailed and meticulously crafted ... Hitman will stand the test of time as one of the definitive wrestling biographies'' Publishers Weekly''Bret Hart still makes me believe that wrestling is good'' Hulk Hogan''Packed with drugs, sex, vicious family in-fighting and tales of life on the road ... Hart names names and lays it all bare in his own words'' Globe and MailA story of death, sex, betrayal and revenge; sweat, steroids and duplicity - wrestler Bret Hart lifts the lid on the wacky, mythic, secretive word of pro wrestling in this epic tell-all.Trade ReviewThe best wrestling book there is, the best wrestling book there was and maybe even the best wrestling book there ever will be * The Sun *Packed with drugs, sex, vicious family in-fighting and tales of life on the road ... Hart names names and lays it all bare in his own words' * The Globe and Mail *A legend! * The Rock *Bret Hart still makes me believe that wrestling is good * Hulk Hogan *Amazingly detailed and meticulously crafted ... Hitman will stand the test of time as one of the definitive wrestling biographies * Publishers Weekly *

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Book SynopsisI AM ZLATAN - the explosive, critically-acclaimed memoir of Manchester United star Zlatan Ibrahimovic, one of the world''s most gifted and controversial footballers''Why be a Fiat when you can be a Ferrari?''Welcome to planet Zlatan. This is the story of how a Swedish immigrant rose from poverty to become a football genius.In his own inimitable style, Zlatan recalls every struggle, every goal, and every training ground bust-up on his journey to dominate the world''s top clubs, including Barcelona, PSG and now Manchester United.Full of wicked one-liners and amazing stories, Zlatan lifts the lid on some of the biggest names in football, including Guardiola, Messi and his new manager, Jose Mourinho.Moving, funny and totally frank, I am Zlatan is unlike any autobiography you have ever read.''Wonderful - nothing less than a revelation. Ibrahimovic is the definitive modern sporting icon'' - Matthew Syed''The best sportsman''s memoir since Andre Agassi... not just a bad boy''s romp but the rise of a boy from the ghetto to the top of his profession and captain of his country. He is candid, funny and yes, wonderfully nuts'' - The Times''There''s never a dull moment on Planet Zlatan. This is a snarling, fizzing, unrepentant firecracker of a book; if footballers'' memoirs bore you, make an exception for this one'' - IndependentTrade ReviewThe perfect antidote to the annihilating tedium of post-match interview cliché . . . downright compelling it is too * Telegraph *He is skillful. He is outspoken. He is Zlatan * New York Times *Wonderful. The best footballer's autobiography of recent years . . . and the bestselling European immigrant's tale since Zadie Smith'sWhite Teeth and Philip Roth's Portnoy's Complaint -- Simon Kuper * Financial Times *Extraordinary * Daily Mail *A modern European fairy tale * New Statesman *Terrific . . . Far more insightful than your typical memoir, Ibra'sbook tells his story of growing up as the son of immigrants in Sweden and pulls no punches when it comes to his opinions ofsome of the biggest names in the game * Sports Illustrated *Eagerly awaited, not least because Ibra seems to be spoiling for a fight on every other page. 'Dynamite' said one Swedish reporter * Daily Mail *It is so good. It is so bloody good . . . a futureclassic that will change Sweden . . . a masterpiece * Aftonbladet *Good God, this is dynamite! * Sportbladet *The story of Zlatan - from his days as an immigrantkid juggling a soccer ball so he won't get bullied to hisemergence as the genius player who scored the greatestgoal ever - is as compelling and fancy-footed as his game * Aleksandar Hemon, US Nat ional Book Awar d finalist and auth or of 'The Lazarus Project' *Sensationally honest and well written * Expressen *

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Book Synopsis*The Million Copy Bestseller*Sir Alex Ferguson''s reflects on his remarkable managerial career where he embraced unprecedented European success for Aberdeen and 26 triumphant seasons with Manchester United. What readers are saying about Alex Ferguson''s My Autobiography''The greatest manager of a generation.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐''No matter the team you support, this is a must read.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐''Incredible'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐''I couldn''t put it down'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐__________For over two decades Sir Alex Ferguson dominated the Premier League, overseeing a sustained and unparalleled period of success with Manchester United. He was a visionary, able to move with the times and build title-winning teams both on and off the pitch. He was a man-manager of phenomenal skill, and increasingly he had to deal with global stars. His relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, for instance, was excellent and David Beckham has described Sir Alex as a father figure.In his bestselling autobiography, Sir Alex reflects on the highlights of his extraordinary career and reveals his remarkable story, from his very early days in the tough shipyard areas of Govan to winning the Champions league in Moscow in 2008. Revised and updated, this edition offers reflections on events at Manchester United since his retirement and offers fresh insights and details on his final years as United''s manager. __________''Fascinating'' Evening Standard ''His book is really a piece of oral history, and his life is a conduit to a time when a working-class man of talent could, not by the magical alchemy of elite education or the stardust of celebrity, but by a lifetime of hard work and hard thinking, rise to the very top and, flaws aside, remain true to the best of the world he came from.'' GuardianTrade ReviewMy Goodness, this is fascinating. * Evening Standard *My Goodness, this is fascinating. * Evening Standard *His book is really a piece of oral history, and his life is a conduit to a time when a working-class man of talent could, not by the magical alchemy of elite education or the stardust of celebrity, but by a lifetime of hard work and hard thinking, rise to the very top and, flaws aside, remain true to the best of the world he came from. * The Guardian *His book is really a piece of oral history, and his life is a conduit to a time when a working-class man of talent could, not by the magical alchemy of elite education or the stardust of celebrity, but by a lifetime of hard work and hard thinking, rise to the very top and, flaws aside, remain true to the best of the world he came from. * The Guardian *

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Book SynopsisThe Mamba Mentality: How I Play is Kobe Bryant's personal perspective of his life and career on the basketball court and his exceptional, insightful style of playing the gamea fitting legacy from the late Los Angeles Laker superstar.In the wake of his retirement from professional basketball, Kobe The Black Mamba Bryant decided to share his vast knowledge and understanding of the game to take readers on an unprecedented journey to the core of the legendary Mamba mentality. Citing an obligation and an opportunity to teach young players, hardcore fans, and devoted students of the game how to play it the right way, The Mamba Mentality takes us inside the mind of one of the most intelligent, analytical, and creative basketball players ever.In his own words, Bryant reveals his famously detailed approach and the steps he took to prepare mentally and physically to not just succeed at the game, but to excel. Readers will learn how Bryant studied an opponent, how he channeled his passion for the game, how he played through injuries. They'll also get fascinating granular detail as he breaks down specific plays and match-ups from throughout his career.Bryant's detailed accounts are paired with stunning photographs by the Hall of Fame photographer Andrew D. Bernstein. Bernstein, long the Lakers and NBA official photographer, captured Bryant's very first NBA photo in 1996 and his last in 2016and hundreds of thousands in between, the record of a unique, twenty-year relationship between one athlete and one photographer.The combination of Bryant's narrative and Bernstein's photos make The Mamba Mentality an unprecedented look behind the curtain at the career of one of the world's most celebrated and fascinating athletes.Trade Review"Revealing...beautifully captured...candid." --Los Angeles Times "A visually beautiful presentation that would make an ideal gift for the Lakers fan in the house." --Kirkus Reviews

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