Autobiography: sport Books
Leiston Press The Green Machine: The Story of Edinburgh
Book SynopsisThe Edinburgh University Hare and Hounds club of the 1960s was one of the most successful Scottish cross country teams in the history of the sportThis is their story
£9.49
Vertebrate Publishing Ltd Hanging on: A life inside British climbing's
Book SynopsisThe start of a love affair: 'I kicked off my shoes and prepared to climb in stocking feet, aware of an enormous sense of occasion as I laid hands on the rock and stepped up on the first rounded hold. It was not a hard climb but that was unimportant. I felt instinctively at home and at the finish experienced such a surge of happy elation that I knew then I was committed to climbing.' Martin Boysen's passion for crags and mountains springs from his deep love of nature and a strong sense of adventure. From his early days on rock as a Kent schoolboy after the war, he was soon among the most gifted climbers of his or any generation, famed for his silky technique.Boysen made a huge contribution to British rock climbing, especially in North Wales; he discovered Gogarth in the 1960s and climbed some of the best new routes of his era: Nexus on Dinas Mot, The Skull on Cyrn Las and the magisterial Capital Punishment on Ogwen's Suicide Wall. For more than two decades, Boysen was also one of Britain's leading mountaineers. A crucial member of Sir Chris Bonington's team that climbed the South Face of Annapurna in 1970, Boysen was also part of Bonington's second summit team on the South West face of Everest. In 1976 he made the first ascent of Trango Tower with Joe Brown.Along the way, Boysen climbed with some of the most important figures in the history of the sport, not just stars like Bonington and Brown, but those who make climbing so rich and intriguing, like Nea Morin and the brilliant but doomed Gary Hemming. He joined Hamish MacInnes hunting gold in Ecuador, doubled for Clint Eastwood on the North Face of the Eiger and worked on director Fred Zinnemann's last movie.Wry, laconic and self-deprecating, Martin Boysen's Hanging On is an insider's account of British climbing's golden age.Table of Contents1 Beginnings; 2 To Learn to Climb; 3 1959; 4 First Ventures in the Alps; 5 The Dolomites; 6 Manchester; 7 The Alpha Club; 8 Hard Climbs, Modern Times; 9 The Walker; 10 Mixed Fortunes; 11 Cerro Torre; 12 Crash; 13 Annapurna; 14 The Eiger Sanction; 15 Changabang; 16 Lost on Everest, Found on Trango; 17 Gold Rush; 18 Endgame; Epilogue - The Rock Climbing Years.
£11.69
Headline Publishing Group The Little Book of Kobe: 192 pages of champion
Book SynopsisThe wisdom of a king of sport, business and charity.Dedicated to a legend of basketball, this is a pocket-sized compendium of the inspirational thoughts of one of the game's all-time greats. From the earliest years of his life through to the heartfelt tributes that poured in after his untimely death, this is a timely portrait of one of sport's most remarkable, accomplished and influential figures.From his high school years, through his meteoric rise on the court, Bryant always had lots to say. His words on sport, business, charity and life will delight, inspire and amuse the reader. He was almost as famed for his memorable words as for his sporting achievements, so this is a carefully crafted collection of motivational, insightful and amusing quotes from one of basketball's most respected stars.'My brain... it cannot process failure. It will not process failure. Because if I sit there and have to face myself and tell myself, 'You're a failure'... I think that's almost worse than death' (On his winning mentality, as seen on NYPost.com, January 27, 2020, by Hannah Frishberg)Kobe is the only NBA player in history to have two separate numbers retired by one team, as he wore both No. 8 and No. 24 with the Los Angeles Lakers.Table of ContentsHigh School Hero • The Rookie Rises • All-Star Years • Get in the Zone • The Charity Champ • Feel the Love.
£7.56
Reach plc My Story: The Greatest Footballer That Never Was
Book SynopsisImagine being so good at football that your legs get insured for a million pounds – at the age of 11. In the 1990s, Sonny Pike had it all. A glittering future in the professional game beckoned. Dutch ‘Total Football’ giants Ajax swooped and flash soccer agent Eric Hall signed him up. Coca-Cola, McDonald’s and Paul Smith queued up to sponsor him. He appeared on TV shows like Fantasy Football and Blue Peter, featured in Hello Magazine and even had his own rap song. Billed as English football’s ‘next Diego Maradona’, everyone loved the baby-faced young superstar. And then, through no fault of his own, it was all taken from him. Controversially banned from football, the spotlight faded. Agents turned their backs. Sponsors withdrew their deals. TV and the media moved on. Even his dad disappeared off the scene. Lost and desperate, Sonny searched for an answer, dabbling in crime, landing in court and even behind bars. The promise of fame and fortune had turned to nothing and there seemed no way back . . . Sonny Pike: The Greatest Footballer That Never Was is a remarkable tale of exploitation and reckless ambition, exposing the worst side of our game in an era when it was evolving in to the multi-million pound industry we know today. Sonny’s story is captivating, at times harrowing, but ultimately inspirational. As thousands of young footballers dream of football stardom, it is more relevant now than ever
£12.34
Reach plc Andy Robertson: Robbo: Now You're Gonna Believe
Book SynopsisJurgen Klopp's Liverpool Football Club are champions of England, Europe and the World. 'Robbo: Now You're Gonna Believe Us' is the inside story of their record-breaking season as seen through the eyes of their popular left-back Andrew Robertson, revealing the Anfield dressing room secrets behind their remarkable success.
£16.00
Atlantic Books Moeen
Book SynopsisShortlisted for The Telegraph's Sports Book Awards - Autobiography of the Year, 2019Longlisted for the Specsavers National Book AwardsOne of the Daily Mail's and the Observer's Books of the Year, 2018The match-winning superstar of the England cricket team finally shares his remarkable personal story in this eagerly-awaited autobiography.Moeen traces his journey from backyard cricket to the county game and his first-class debut as a teenager, through to his international debut at the relatively late age of 27 and the golden summer of 2017, when he was anointed Player of the Series against South Africa with thousands of England fans chanting his name.But cricket is just one part of Moeen's life. His upbringing in the tough Sparkhill neighbourhood of Birmingham and the awakening at eighteen that led him to become a devout Muslim have given him a social conscience unusual for an elite athlete but have also attracted controversy. Here, for the first time, Moeen tells his side of the story.Talented, tenacious and thoughtful, Moeen Ali is a true all-rounder.
£10.44
Atlantic Books Original Spin: Misadventures in Cricket
Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE CRICKET SOCIETY AND MCC BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD 2020The much-loved former England player, Guardian cricket correspondent and TMS broadcaster tells the story of his life in cricket for the first time.In April 1974 new recruits Viv Richards, Ian Botham, Peter Roebuck and Vic Marks reported for duty at Somerset County Cricket Club. Apart from Richards, 'all of us were eighteen years old, though Botham seemed to have lived a bit longer - or at least more vigorously - than the rest.'In this irresistible memoir of a life lived in cricket, Vic Marks returns to the heady days when Richards and Botham were young men yet to unleash their talents on the world stage while he and Roebuck looked on in awe. After the high-octane dramas of Somerset, playing for England was almost an anti-climax for Marks, who became an unlikely all-rounder in the mercurial side of the 1980s. Moving from the dressing room to the press box, with trenchant observations about the modern game along the way, Original Spin is a charmingly wry, shrewdly observed account of a golden age in cricket.Trade ReviewA lovely read: self-written and thus well-written; authentic, genial and full of good anecdotes -- Matthew Engel * New Statesman *[Marks] must be cricket's most avuncular man, a warm, wry presence in voice and print. His memoir has those qualities too, as well as being deeply English, deeply modest...Marks' real gift as writer and broadcaster is an eye for human detail...this is a memoir in Vic Marks' image, and offers joy and solace in plentiful measures. -- Jon Hotten * Wisden Cricket Monthly *[Marks] is unfailingly courteous, friendly and knowledgable. His autobiography does absolutely nothing to dispel that impression. He tells his story in an engaging style... * Cricket Web *Elegantly written and...often gently penetrating in its judgements. * Country Life *There are some great anecdotes as well as a revealing account of his relationship with former Somerset skipper Peter Roebuck * Choice *a sunny and modest read * Literary Review *Table of Contents1: Taunton 1974 2: On the farm 3: Oxford 4: Full-time pro 5: Great losses 6: Great wins 7: Caps no. 55 and 499 8: One-day cricketer 9: On tour 10: Perth 11: Trouble over Bridgwater 12: Retired hurt 13: The Observer 14: Test Match Special (then) 15: Test Match Special (now) 16: Loose ends
£9.99
Fernhurst Books Limited Sailing Around Britain - A Weekend Sailor's
Book SynopsisKim Sturgess was a weekend sailor: he enjoyed club racing and several brief sailing holidays, but had never attempted a substantial expedition. Reaching the age of fifty focused the mind and he decided to sail around Britain. While many cruising sailors would not contemplate a 1900 nautical mile voyage, he broke the voyage into a series of day sails, making it an achievable ambition for him, largely single-handed, and for many other weekend sailors who might dream of sailing around their home island. This book tells the quirky traveller's narrative of the voyage and visits to forty-eight towns. Evoking the spirit of both Jerome K. Jerome with his Three Men in a Boat and Joshua Slocum's Sailing Alone Around the World, Kim shares his thoughts and struggles, recounting how easy it is for anyone to become an adventurer here at home. But don't expect to always agree with him - he has been described as "the Jeremy Clarkson of yachting"!Trade Review"If the thought of tough coastal night passages puts you off sailing round Britain, try Kim Sturgess's tactic of breaking the voyage down into '50 day sails and one night passage' as he did... It's interesting for anyone thinking of making the voyage." (Yachting Monthly) "His narrative grips the reader as we share the heart-in-the-mouth experience... He tells his story with a vivid immediacy: we are there with him. We share the dangers he faces during the miserable summer of 2007, his philosophical observations along the way and his sadness at recurring evidence of national decline in the places he visits." (Cruising Association) “Sail the glorious and challenging coast of Britain with Kim Sturgess in his salty tale…. His leisurely approach to adventure takes in towns and villages along the way and brings to life the great variety of culture and cuisine on our small island… It’s wonderful, warm and well worth a read.” (Sailing Today) An unusual travel guide by an unusual companion.” (Yachting Life)Table of ContentsPreface; PART ONE: SWAPPING THE LONDON UNDERGROUND FOR THE BRITISH SEAS: Cruise Philosophy, My Sailing Experience, Hobo the Yacht, Safety for a Sailor; PART TWO: GREENWICH TO GREENWICH AROUND THE BRITISH ISLES: East: Greenwich to Inverness, North: Inverness to Bangor NI, West: Bangor NI to Newlyn, South: Newlyn to Greenwich; Epilogue; Glossary; Appendix.
£10.79
Saraband The Boxing Diaries: How I Got Hooked
Book SynopsisAged fifty, on a whim, Marion Dunn joined a boxing gym. Training to improve fitness quickly became something of an addiction, and then a source of transformation. This is her myth-busting tale of four years of slogging in an amateur boxing gym in northern England. Marion's story is one of a developing love affair with the 'sweet science'. It's also about obsession, hard work, companionship and occasional bravery. But The Boxing Diaries is not just a story of hard graft. It's a revealing account of life in the amateur boxing gym: its idiosyncratic inhabitants, non-judgmental spirit, dedicated coaches and respect for all comers, irrespective of age or gender - provided their commitment to training is total. From the sweat and toil in draughty halls, Marion takes us through the years of preparation before she is finally ready to spar in the ring. Every micro-improvement, every emotion is laid bare, and along the way she considers the influences and events that might have ignited her passion for the sport in the first place. Warning: this is a knockout memoir that could make you want to start swinging punches, too.
£8.99
Sandstone Press Ltd There's Always the Hills
Book SynopsisFrom his home in the Cairngorms of Scotland, in There’s Always the Hills Cameron McNeish reflects on a life dedicated to the outdoors. A prolific author, McNeish has led treks in the Himalayas and Syria, edited The Great Outdoors magazine, establishing it as Britain’s premier walking publication, created new long-distance walks and made television series, contributed a monthly column to Scots Magazine, campaigned for Scottish independence and raised a family with his wife, Gina. In this long-awaited autobiography, he candidly recalls the ups and downs of a full life, much of it in the public eye, much of it until now unseen.Trade Review‘There’s Always the Hills flows like a friendly conversation, shared over three or four single malts, and develops into an engaging tale...’ * The Great Outdoors Magazine *‘A gifted storyteller, he peels back the layers of his life and offers a personal and emotional look behind the scenes of his success. This is a great read for anyone who enjoys our great outdoors and the wealth of tales that can be told about it - it's both one man's story and a candid, absorbing account for those with an interest in Scotland's awe-inspiring wildlife.’ * Rachel Scorgie, The Courier *‘There’s Always the Hills is a sure-fire hit. The author’s eye for minor details and honest accounts of his experiences, bring his anecdotes to life.’ * Scottish Field *‘Cameron McNeish's autobiography is everything we hoped it would be, and a "must buy" for anyone who's ever felt the pull of Scotland's mountains. ’ * Undiscovered Scotland *‘Cameron is a born raconteur and his book flows easily, being both informative and full of interest.’ * Helen Todd, Walk Magazine *‘There's Always the Hills is an inspiring story of a life well lived. Or, at least, the first installment.’ * Roger Cox, Scotland on Sunday *‘A vivid travelogue through the breathtaking vistas, towering peaks and rugged islands of Scotland and a tribute to the warmth and hospitality of the Scots people... McNeish's encyclopaedic knowledge of the lochs and glens, Highlands and islands, the bealachs and coires and the myriad myths and legends that reside therein is unrivalled.’ * BBC Countryfile Magazine *
£9.49
Vertebrate Publishing Ltd Echoes: One climber's hard road to freedom
Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Boardman Tasker Award for Mountain Literature.'As I sat cradling the man's head, with his blood and brains sticking to my hands, I heard a voice – my own voice. It was asking me something. Asking how I had ended up like this, desperate and lost among people who thought nothing of caving in a man's head and then standing back to watch him die.'Nick Bullock was a prison officer working in a maximum-security jail with some of Britain's most notorious criminals. Trapped in a world of aggression and fear, he felt frustrated and alone. Then he discovered the mountains. Making up for lost time, Bullock soon became one of Britain's best climbers, learning his trade in the mountains of Scotland and Wales, and travelling from Pakistan to Peru in his search for new routes and a new way of seeing the world – and ultimately an escape route from his life inside. Told that no one ever leaves the service – the security, the stability, the 'job for life' – Bullock focused his existence on a single goal: to walk free, with no shackles, into a mountain life.Echoes is a powerful and compelling exploration of freedom, and what it means to live life on your own terms.Trade Review'A brilliant page-turner from one of our most outstanding adventure mountaineers.' – Chris Bonington'Wild, exciting and inspirational. A book that grips you throughout with wild tales from handling Britain's most notorious criminals to tackling some of the world's most exciting unclimbed lines. I loved it.' – Mick Fowler'Utterly gripping. From his first clumsy steps to the all-in commitment of his greatest ascents Nick Bullock's early climbing career was inextricably linked to his work as a prison officer. Prison was both the force he climbed to escape and the hell that compelled him to push himself further in the mountains than others might have gone.' – Mark Twight'An unusual and powerful story that is as remarkable for its depiction of the author's life as a prison officer in one of the country's toughest jails, Gartree, as for his prodigious achievements on the mountains.' – Peter Beaumont, The Observer'When some aspects of climbing are turning into another off-the-shelf consumer lifestyle as predictable as the Gap catalogue, Echoes offers a compelling picture of what the real thing is all about.' – Stephen Venables, Climb Magazine'This book, an important book, a real book, captures a period in modern British climbing history ... the writing is captivating, intelligent, gentle, inquisitive.' – Jack Geldard, UKclimbing.com'A thought-provoking, entertaining and at times frightening book. Essential reading for anyone into having adventures.' – Dave MacLeod'Echoes is very entertaining and credit should be given for the author's vivid portrayal of prison life. The writing in the main is spare and matter of fact. A style which suits the rather dark subject matter. Prison life does not really lend itself to romantic prose!' – John Appleby, Footless CrowTable of ContentsForeword by Paul PritchardPrologue – TrustBrickWoodlands ChainsSoul MiningEchoesBellsFermentationFoundationsThe BlockGuiltFlowRoadsDreamsInnocenceGerminationLoyaltyTunnelsHonestyTracksThe WormTogetherFaithFearParoleLossFlightNorthDevotionWireWordsConfrontationCrashTimeDetritusThe SeaDetoxStarsTruthTurn Acknowledgements
£9.49
Fernhurst Books Limited My Life in a Blue Suit: The Man Who Helped Make
Book SynopsisAt five out of the last six Olympic Games team GBR has been the top nation in sailing, a result of strong leadership from the Royal Yachting Association and very talented sailors and coaches. But Barry Pickthall, formerly the Yachting Correspondent of The Times observes: “If one man deserves recognition for Britain’s remarkable success within the sailing Olympic arena, it is Jim Saltonstall – the coach who has cajoled, encouraged and inspired so many youngsters towards world stardom over the past 3 decades.” This is the story of Jim Saltonstall and his contribution to the success of British sailing. It starts in his home county of Yorkshire and the seaside town of Bridlington where he learnt to sail. It goes through his experiences in the Royal Navy, which he joined aged 15, with tours all around the world but, particularly, sailing with the Royal Navy team and becoming the Royal Navy Sailing Coach. This led to his appointment as the first RYA National Yacht Racing Coach, the development of the GBR Race Training Scheme and, in due course, great success at youth, world and Olympic levels. The 24 Olympic medals won by the 14 sailors who give glowing praise to Jim in the Foreword confirms his contribution to this success. Jim retired from his Team GBR role in 2000, after the Sydney Olympics, but it is a testimony to him that two of the gold medallists from Tokyo 2020 (which took place in 2021 – in elite sports a lifetime since Jim retired) credit him in their success, saying he was ‘a huge inspiration’ and ‘couldn’t help be motivated’ by him. The story is told as modestly as a Yorkshireman can, and is interspaced with tales of cars, car journeys and one or two parties! Jim also takes time out of the story to give his thoughts on all aspects of youth training, competing internationally and coaching. Anyone involved in race training will benefit from the wisdom he provides in these pieces.Trade Review“Jim inspired generations of World Champions and Olympic medallists. He gave youngsters the belief that they could win, then provided the platform to create the skill sets to get the job done. There are a handful of people who deserve immense credit for the success of British sailing in the last 40 years and Jim is without doubt one of them.” (Sir Ben Ainslie) “Jim was ahead of his time in bringing together the best youth talent and giving them a structured approach in order to develop their sailing skills. His real skill was not what he coached, but it was making them feel that they belonged to something special, making them proud to represent Great Britain and in time helping us all believe we could win.” (Ian Walker) “Jim is a one of the standout coaches and mentors that deserves great credit for the influence he has had over Britain’s success in sailing. His enthusiasm, knowledge and tremendous sense of humour inspired so many young sailors to great things. He was immensely proud of his ‘ferrets’ and always had time for each and every one of us.” (Paul Goodison)Table of ContentsForeword; Introduction; My Early Years; Starting in the Navy; Moving on in the Navy; Becoming the Royal Navy Sailing Coach; My Olympic Campaigning; Setting Up the RYA Youth Programme; Moving on to the International Stage; Youth Results Start Coming; Development in Youth Training; Keelboats & Optimists; My Own Sailing; The Olympics; Going Freelance; More Coaching & Sailing. Interludes: The Ten Aspects of the Sport; Sailing International Regatta; Running a Youth Training Programme; Coaching at Events; Coaching to Success; Working with Parents; Dealing with Prima Donnas.
£11.69
Y Lolfa Nigel Owens: The Final Whistle: The long-awaited
Book SynopsisThe story of the second half of Nigel's career as one of the most famous referees in World Rugby, and one of only two Welsh refs ever to officiate at a Rugby World Cup Final. With his contract with the Welsh Rugby Union having come to an end in 2020, he is free to reveal all about his career since his previous autobiography, 'Half Time', to speak his mind on various issues and to give the full story of his last Rugby World Cup in 2019.Trade ReviewThe story of the second half of Nigel's career as one of the most famous referees in World Rugby, and one of only two Welsh refs ever to officiate at a Rugby World Cup Final. With his contract with the Welsh Rugby Union having come to an end in 2020, he is free to reveal all about his career since his previous autobiography, Half Time, to speak his mind on various issues and to give the full story of his last Rugby World Cup in 2019. -- Publisher: Y Lolfa
£19.00
Y Lolfa Charlie Faulkner: The 1 and Only
Book SynopsisThe long-awaited autobiography of Welsh rugby legend 'Charlie' Faulkner. Immortalised in Max Boyce's 'The Pontypool Front Row', he was a key member of the 1970s Golden Era Wales team in a period in which they dominated Northern Hemisphere rugby, winning three Grand Slams and four Triple Crowns. Faulkner died in early 2023 prior to publication. Over 40 images.Trade ReviewCONTENTS Foreword by Gareth Edwards Introduction Chapter One: The Farmer's Horse Chapter Two: "Hey, you boys, are you tired of living?" Chapter Three: "Not me, ref!" Chapter Four: Lionhead, Bolt and Charlie Chapter Five: Property of WRU... aged - er - 29? Chapter Six: Bobby's boot and Merv's cigarette Chapter Seven: "If you lose, don't come home!" Chapter Eight: "Up and under, here we go" Chapter Nine: "You've got to bring Charlie out here!" Chapter Ten: "You carry water for other people to drink" Chapter Eleven: Exit the Dragon Chapter Twelve: "I'll only play for Charlie Faulkner RFC!" Chapter Thirteen: A Hero with Charlie's Angels Chapter Fourteen: "Show a bit of commitment!" Chapter Fifteen: Playing to the Final Whistle Favourite Players Career Statistics Tributes -- Publisher: Y LolfaTable of ContentsCONTENTS Foreword by Gareth Edwards Introduction Chapter One: The Farmer's Horse Chapter Two: "Hey, you boys, are you tired of living?" Chapter Three: “Not me, ref!” Chapter Four: Lionhead, Bolt and Charlie Chapter Five: Property of WRU… aged – er – 29? Chapter Six: Bobby’s boot and Merv’s cigarette Chapter Seven: “If you lose, don’t come home!” Chapter Eight: “Up and under, here we go” Chapter Nine: “You’ve got to bring Charlie out here!” Chapter Ten: “You carry water for other people to drink” Chapter Eleven: Exit the Dragon Chapter Twelve: “I’ll only play for Charlie Faulkner RFC!” Chapter Thirteen: A Hero with Charlie’s Angels Chapter Fourteen: “Show a bit of commitment!” Chapter Fifteen: Playing to the Final Whistle Favourite Players Career Statistics Tributes
£9.99
Scribe Publications Godspeed: a memoir
Book Synopsis‘I swim for every chance to get wasted — after every meet, every weekend, every travel trip. This is what I look forward to and what I tell no one: the burn of it down my throat, to my soul curled up in my lungs, the sharpest pain all over it — it seizes and stretches, becoming alive again, and is the only thing that makes sense.’ At fifteen, Casey Legler is already one of the fastest swimmers in the world. She is also an alcoholic, isolated from her family, and incapable of forming lasting connections with those around her. Driven to compete at the highest levels, sent far away from home to train with the best coaches and teams, she finds herself increasingly alone and alienated, living a life of cheap hotels and chlorine-worn skin, anonymous sexual encounters and escalating drug use. Even at what should be a moment of triumph — competing at age nineteen in the 1996 Olympics — she is an outsider looking in, procuring drugs for Olympians she hardly knows, and losing her race after setting a new world record in the qualifying heats. After submitting to years of numbing training in France and the United States, Casey can see no way out of the sinister loneliness that has swelled and festered inside her. Yet wondrously, when it is almost too late, she discovers a small light within herself, and senses a point of calm within the whirlwind of her life. In searing, evocative, visceral prose, Casey gives language to loneliness in this startling story of survival, defiance, and of the embers that still burn when everything else in us goes dark.Trade Review‘Raw and poetic … The book is lean and ferocious — not unlike Ms. Legler’s attributes as a competitive swimmer — and offers an unflinching account of the “dogged devotion to routine and repetition” required of Olympians.’ -- Alex Hawgood * The New York Times *‘Reading Godspeed is an experience as invigorating, beautiful and punishing as standing under a waterfall. Legler is an unflinching chronicler of light and darkness, loneliness and embodiment, and the deep enchantments of sensation.’ -- Helen Macdonald, author of H Is For Hawk‘So graphically well does it capture the pain and trauma of growing up deeply unhappy and isolated … an extraordinary memoir.’ -- Stephen Sackur * BBC ‘HARDtalk’ *‘Godspeed is a memoir for our times — an urgent, hypnotising account of growing up and growing into one’s skin under extreme circumstances. As brutal and original a telling as I can remember — of loneliness, of coping until the centre cannot hold. There is darkness here but in Casey Legler’s deft hands it serves the light. A cut-to-the-bone blues song in chapter form, these pages are touched, as she is, with lightning.’ -- Michael Stipe‘Legler’s literary gift is self-evident from her startlingly frank memoir … The language is defiantly her own: fluid, sensual, visceral.’ -- Oliver Brown * The Telegraph *‘[A memoir] with so much power and transparency.’ -- Julia Vitale * Vanity Fair *‘Exceptionally talented, reckless, separated from a true sense of herself, Legler could so easily have not survived her early life. The tension here is in how close she comes — by choice, or by default, in settings both elegant and ruined — and is still able to restore herself, her soul, and renew language itself to tell of it. Many of us would be well served by reading the last sentence of this memoir every day.’ -- Amy Hempel‘[Legler] intricately describes every nuance of the competitive experience alongside her personal self-discovery … A coming-of-age drama captured through poetic prose and convincing honesty.’ * Kirkus *‘This is a heart-wrenching, coming-of-age memoir by a talented athlete who is street-smart, lonely, and painfully broken … A poetically written account by a resilient rebel who skillfully captures what it is like to feel the world through her skin.’ -- Brenda Barrera * Booklist *‘It had a profound effect on me, I loved it very much, it’s really unique.’ -- Stewart Who? * ‘Out In South London’ Resonance FM *‘[T]he book does offer a bold and innovative glimpse into a fascinating mind and the surreal life of a prodigy athlete … Legler is a writer of obvious talent. There are images and turns of phrase that are truly lovely, and that remind us of her keen observational powers … Legler’s story and poetics can be powerful.’ -- Emma Rault * Lambda Literary *‘A tale of an unusual and distressing girlhood marred by drug addiction, self-loathing, sexual abuse, rebellion, and intense loneliness amid sporting success. It is short and unorthodoxly prose-like, and it punches hard and dark.’ -- Rachel Olding * Sydney Morning Herald *‘[A]n intense memoir ... Legler succinctly captures her descent into alcohol and drug addiction ... The raw effect of the prose lingers ... This is a raw story of teenage addiction, and it’s beautifully told.’ * Publishers Weekly *‘An extraordinary story.' -- Seán Moncrieff * ‘The Moncrieff Show’ Newstalk *‘Tone and voice are engaging, thickly smeared in a … 'warts and all' approach that strikes a freshness in its sporadic depravity.’ -- Shane Butler * Irish Examiner *
£13.49
2QT Publishing Services Blood, Sweat and Smears: 2019
Book SynopsisGary Gibson has made the first ascents of over 4,750 rock climbing routes. Bedevilled by controversy, mostly of his own making, Gary has gone his own way and clashed with the climbing establishment of the day. Love him or loathe him, here Gary shares his thoughts and memories giving the reader a personal insight into this `controversial' man.
£22.50
Merlin Unwin Books Fishing from the Rock of the Bay: The Making of
Book SynopsisA funny, entertaining insight into the views of a dedicated angler who has fished wherever in the world his work took him, from England to Sudan. Full of fishing anecdotes, tips and thought-provoking ideas.
£18.00
Octopus Publishing Group The Accidental Footballer
Book Synopsis***THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER 'A heroic outsider - a pleasure to read.' - The Guardian'A fulsome evocation of football before the Premier League.' - The i'Such a good storyteller...joyous.' - Financial Times'Honest, raw, revealing and very funny. How to live a life and career to the full. Insightful book about the most successful outsider inside football ever...' - Henry Winter, Chief Football Writer, The Times'Pat is a wonderful one-off...and this is the story of why that is.' - John Murray, Chief Sports Correspondent, BBC Radio 5 Live'Unusually vibrant and elegant with heroic doses of humour, insight and self-effacement, this is an absolute must-read for the football connoisseur.' - Omid Djalili 'The biggest influence of my professional career both on and off the pitch.' - Graeme Le Saux'I grew up captivated by Pat Nevin the player. As a man he taught me even more about the beauty of the game. One of football's great mavericks, and Chelsea's greatest players. And he can spin a mean tune too.' - Sam Matterface 'I used to walk miles to see Pat Nevin play football and I'd do the same now to read his thoughts. Always challenging, always entertaining.' - Lord Sebastian Coe'A refreshingly honest and thought-provoking autobiography. As deftly delivered as some of Pat's ball skills in his 1980's heyday.' - ToffeeWeb Pat Nevin never wanted to be a professional footballer.His future was clear, he'd become a teacher like his brothers. There was only one problem with this - Pat was far too good to avoid attention. Raised in Glasgow's East End, Pat loved the game, playing for hours and obsessively following Celtic. But as he grew up, he also loved Joy Division, wearing his Indie 'gloom boom' coat and going on marches - hardly typical footballer behaviour!Placed firmly in the 80s and 90s, before the advent of the Premier League, and often with racism and violence present, Pat Nevin writes with honesty, insight and wry humour. We are transported vividly to Chelsea and Everton, and colourfully diverted by John Peel, Morrissey and nights out at the Hacienda.The Accidental Footballer is a different kind of football memoir. Capturing all the joys of professional football as well as its contradictions and conflicts, it's about being defined by your actions, not your job, and is the perfect reminder of how life can throw you the most extraordinary surprises, when you least expect it.
£10.44
Octopus Publishing Group Bendtner: Both Sides: The Bestselling
Book Synopsis***SHORTLISTED FOR THE TELEGRAPH'S 2021 SPORTS BOOK AWARDS - INTERNATIONAL AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF THE YEAR'One of the best football books I've read for a very long time.' - Sam Pilger, FourFourTwo Magazine'An extraordinary, granular depiction of a young football star's life.' - The Daily Mail'An excellent read with some incredible stories.' - TalkSPORT Breakfast ShowKnown as 'Lord Bendtner' to his fans and haters alike, Nicklas Bendtner has been lauded for his football skills at super clubs like Arsenal and Juventus. But his career has been haunted by his rocky behaviour and tendency to self-sabotage.In this disarmingly honest memoir, Bendtner talks about the darker side of football and his own difficult fall from grace; about what it's like to have so much promise that you lose touch with reality altogether.It's is about growing up in a working-class neighbourhood and fighting to reach the top in the worlds' toughest league. It's about friendship, rivalry, and the constant quest for an adrenaline kick. It's about money and what happens when you give a troubled, overconfident teen millions to spend. It's about an industry that has lost sight of what really matters.A modern footballing fable, it's a story of decline, temper, talent, great football and ultimately the tragedy of unfulfilled potential.Not since the days of Paul McGrath's Back From The Brink have we seen such honesty on the page of a footballer's memoir. Fans of Paul Merson, George Best and Tony Adam's autobiographies will also find pure fascination here in a story that has gripped international readers...Trade ReviewBendtner's [autobiography] exposes all others as mere child's play... I don't think any other football book I've read, at least not in a long while, comes anywhere near close to Bendtner's scrutiny... If it's an unflinchingly honest behind-the-scenes insight into football and all of its trappings you want, this is the book for you. * Jade Craddock *
£8.54
The Book Guild Ltd After Extra Time and Penalties: Memories of a BBC
Book SynopsisAfter almost a quarter-century as the BBC’s Chief Football Correspondent, Mike Ingham MBE shares a candid, comprehensive and sometimes controversial account of how the world of broadcasting and football changed beyond recognition throughout his career. His broadcasting experiences saw him attend eight World Cups, commentate on twenty-eight F.A. Cup Finals, work with ten full-time England managers, introduce Sports Report, present his own music show on BBC Radio 1, and he even covered Princess Diana’s funeral. He has enjoyed working with a who’s who of personalities from the world of football and has tales to tell about all of them… This book is a timely reminder of England’s campaigns in tournaments over the last half-century with a detailed and eyewitness account of what the atmosphere was really like over the years behind the scenes in the England camp. Mike Ingham MBE was the BBC’s Chief Football Correspondent for almost a quarter of a century and only the third person to hold this post after Brian Moore and Bryon Butler. In a radio career of over forty years, Mike attended eight World Cups, commentated on twenty-eight F.A. Cup Finals and worked with ten full-time England managers. Starting out as a DJ in a nightclub, music and football have been his twin obsessions and often the two worlds have bounced into each other as many of his musical heroes have also been football fans. The start of his broadcasting career at BBC Radio Derby coincided with the glory years for Derby County with Brian Clough and Dave Mackay and his final commentary for the BBC was at the Maracanã Stadium in Rio for the World Cup Final of 2014. Shortly after his retirement Mike became the first broadcaster to be given a Lifetime Achievement by the Sports Journalists Association. What made this even more special for him was to be presented with this honour by four of the men he respected most of all in the industry, Hugh McIlvanney, James Lawton, Jeff Powell and Patrick Collins.
£11.69
Mirror Books My Hidden Race: Anyika Onuora
Book Synopsis"My Hidden Race" is the story of Olympic medallist Anyika Onuora, who stood on the podium at every major championship in athletics. This book won't go into detail about the technicalities of her sport or the beauty of the Olympic spirit however. In the era of the Black Lives Matter and Me Too, this is an unflinching testimony of what it takes to pursue your dreams as a Black British woman against all odds. This three-time Olympian will lift the lid on the reality of life as a black female athlete in Britain in a way that nobody else has done before her. Nothing is off the record. She is revealing her life for the first time in this book with complete fearlessness. There have been far too many years of silence caught in a system. Now Anyika is determined to make up for lost time and use her story to inspire and heal others. "My Hidden Race" will take you into a world that often takes place far from the spotlight of the Olympic torch and shines an intense light on the brutal reality of professional sport for many black females.
£15.29
Vision Sports Publishing Ltd The Smell of Football: 10th Anniversary Edition
Book Synopsis
£16.99
Moyhill Publishing An Outsider at Lord's: The real story behind my
Book Synopsis
£17.99
Polaris Publishing Limited Exe Men: The Extraordinary Rise of the Exeter
Book SynopsisWinner of the Telegraph Sports Book Awards Rugby Book of the Year Among the best stories in modern British team sport has been the rise of Exeter Chiefs. How, exactly, did an unfashionable rugby team from Devon emerge from obscurity to become the double champions of England and Europe? What makes them tick? What are their secrets? Exe Men is a compelling story of regional pride, fierce rural identity, larger-than-life local heroes, remarkable characters, epic resilience, big city snobbery, geographical separation, steepling ambition and personal sacrifice which will strike a chord with anyone who enjoys a classic underdog story. This is not any old rugby book, it is the inside story of Exeter’s incredible journey from the edge of nowhere to the summit of the English and European club game.Trade Review'A beautifully-written, amusing and insightful book that gets to the very heart of Exeter Chiefs – a rugby club with one of the most remarkable stories in British sport. Exe Men is the best rugby book I’ve read in years' -- Donald McRae, twice winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year'Forensic, funny, captivating, a story told with relish as well as insight' -- Mick Cleary * The Telegraph *'No Exeter fan should be without this book, nor any sports fan who loves a fairy tale grounded in professionalism. Splendid stuff' -- Stuart Barnes * The Times *'Exeter Chiefs – the community club that grew into a European giant. This is how they did it. A quite brilliant combination of great story and great storyteller' -- Tom English * BBC Sport *'Beautifully told, this is a rare insight into the remarkable rise of the Chiefs, from their homespun roots to the pinnacle of European rugby – surely one of the most heart-warming tales in all of British sport' -- Alastair Eykyn * BT Sport *'Punchy and penetrative, Robert Kitson has done justice to one of sport’s greatest stories. If you don’t already love Exeter, you will now' -- Alan Pearey * Rugby World *'So much more than a rugby book and full of genuinely funny anecdotes, this is a read for anyone interested in building a winning team' -- Chris Bentley * Express and Echo, Exeter *
£17.09
Polaris Publishing Limited Ken Scotland: The Autobiography
Book SynopsisKen Scotland was born on 29 August 1936 within sight of Heriot’s Goldenacre ground, which he would go onto grace with great panache and skill several years later. A prodigious talent at fly-half while at school, he was converted into a full-back during the international trials of 1957 and was capped in that position against France at Colombes just a few weeks later, scoring all of his country’s points as the Scots recorded their first win on French soil since 1949. Having joined the army after leaving school, Scotland then attended Cambridge University and it was from there that he was selected for the 1959 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia and New Zealand. During this epic four-month tour he won plaudits far and wide as one of the superstars of the Lions’ team. Using entries from the dairy he kept during this tour, Scotland brings to life one of the great Lions expeditions, taking us right into the heart of the changing rooms, hotels, bars and in the heat of battle on the field. Scotland played in five Tests for the Lions and won a total of twenty-seven caps for his country before retiring in 1965 with a reputation as one of the finest players ever to play for Scotland well established. He would continue to play club rugby for several years afterwards while enjoying a successful business career. At eighty-three he has finally decided to tell his life story. Working with Allan Massie, the doyen of Scottish rugby journalism, he has created a rich and powerful testimony to his life and rugby career, throwing new light on his own achievements as well as providing fresh insight the great players of his era. It is as fascinating as it is evocative of a time and a game long past and a must-read for rugby fans of all generations.Trade Review'one of rugby's greatest game-changers ... a wonderfully readable account of a life well-lived and games well-played' -- Alasdair Reid * The Times *'A rugby book for the ages. A beguiling, intimate chronicle of a lost world' -- Hugh MacDonald'I have never seen a more complete full back than Ken Scotland. He played classical rugby with a romantic touch ... an unusual as well as fascinating book' -- Allan Massie
£16.19
Polaris Publishing Limited Exe Men: The Extraordinary Rise of the Exeter
Book SynopsisWinner of the Telegraph Sports Book Awards Rugby Book of the Year Among the best stories in modern British team sport has been the rise of Exeter Chiefs. How, exactly, did an unfashionable rugby team from Devon emerge from obscurity to become the double champions of England and Europe? What makes them tick? What are their secrets? Exe Men is a compelling story of regional pride, fierce rural identity, larger-than-life local heroes, remarkable characters, epic resilience, big city snobbery, geographical separation, steepling ambition and personal sacrifice which will strike a chord with anyone who enjoys a classic underdog story. This is not any old rugby book, it is the inside story of Exeter’s incredible journey from the edge of nowhere to the summit of the English and European club game.Trade Review'A beautifully-written, amusing and insightful book that gets to the very heart of Exeter Chiefs – a rugby club with one of the most remarkable stories in British sport. Exe Men is the best rugby book I’ve read in years' -- Donald McRae, twice winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year'Forensic, funny, captivating, a story told with relish as well as insight' -- Mick Cleary * The Telegraph *'No Exeter fan should be without this book, nor any sports fan who loves a fairy tale grounded in professionalism. Splendid stuff' -- Stuart Barnes * The Times *'Exeter Chiefs – the community club that grew into a European giant. This is how they did it. A quite brilliant combination of great story and great storyteller' -- Tom English * BBC Sport *'Beautifully told, this is a rare insight into the remarkable rise of the Chiefs, from their homespun roots to the pinnacle of European rugby – surely one of the most heart-warming tales in all of British sport' -- Alastair Eykyn * BT Sport *'Punchy and penetrative, Robert Kitson has done justice to one of sport’s greatest stories. If you don’t already love Exeter, you will now' -- Alan Pearey * Rugby World *'So much more than a rugby book and full of genuinely funny anecdotes, this is a read for anyone interested in building a winning team' -- Chris Bentley * Express and Echo, Exeter *
£13.49
Tippermuir Books Limited Mind the Links: Golf Memories
Book Synopsis
£14.25
Reach plc The Hill: My Autobiography
Book SynopsisShortlisted for An Post Sport Book Of The Year 2020. An inside look into the seven-time All Ireland senior winner Bernard Brogan. With seven All-Ireland senior triumphs, four All-Star awards and 2010 Footballer of the Year, this autobiography provides a heartfelt and honest insight into the his life in Blue.
£10.78
Reach plc Under The Hairdryer: Fergie Untold Tales
Book SynopsisSir Alex Ferguson is arguably Britain's greatest ever football manager. In the year that he celebrates his 80th birthday, this new book from experienced journalist and author John Richardson will offer an original insight into what makes the Scot tick, his unique way of operating and how his genius changed the footballing landscape.
£18.00
Reach plc Keith Earls: Fight or Flight: My Life
Book SynopsisKeith Earls started out in senior rugby as a teenage star and during the course of his long career has become one of the most admired and respected players of his generation. A British & Irish Lion at the age of 21, he is now closing in on his 34th birthday and still playing at the top of his game. He has won 93 caps for Ireland and played 179 times in the famous red of Munster. He started every game of the 2018 Six Nations campaign that culminated in an Irish Grand Slam victory. A lethal finisher blessed with thoroughbred speed, Earls is the second-highest try scorer of all time for his country. With Munster he is one try short of the all-time total and looks set to break that record next season. Behind the glittering success, there is another story to be told. He has achieved these milestones whilst being racked by private battles with his mental health for most of his career. A number of crises brought him to the brink of voluntary retirement from the game. A long series of injuries have taken their psychological toll too. A native of Limerick city, Earls grew up in one of its most socially disadvantaged housing estates. Moyross was blighted by crime and violence and he did not escape unscathed from the surrounding fear and trauma visited upon his beloved community. His natural sporting talent brought him into the privileged bastion of elite rugby union. His frank and fearless autobiography tells the story of his long struggle to reconcile the world whence he came with the world opened up by his brilliance with an oval ball. Earls has maintained a low profile throughout his career. For the first time he will talk in depth and at length about the inner turmoil that went unseen by team-mates, friends and fans. It is a confessional, intimate and courageous story of the pain that was a constant companion to the glory.
£18.00
Reach plc Half Truths
Book SynopsisMike Phillips is one of Welsh rugby's most decorated players. With multiple Grand Slams and Lions tours under his belt, he was revered all over the world for his aggressive, in-your-face style of play. Off the field, his early years were littered with controversy and scandal as he wrestled with the new-found fame that success brought. In this brutally honest, tell-all autobiography, Mike reveals his run-ins with the police on the streets of Cardiff, what really went on inside the Wales and Lions dressing rooms and the truth behind that fateful night outside McDonald's, when a scrape with a bouncer saw him hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons on the eve of a World Cup training camp. He also discusses the personal turmoil that, at times, engulfed him and how he was able to block it all out to become one of the best players in the world. Phillips opens up about every aspect of his much talked about career, from the many glorious highs to struggling with fame, coping with pressure, dealing with rejection and retirement while ultimately finding personal peace and happiness. He lifts the lids on his relationship with Warren Gatland and talks about the big characters in the dressing room, from Sam Warburton to Dan Carter. Mike Phillips: Half Truths - My Triumphs, My Mistakes, My Untold Story is a no-holds barred account of a rugby life lived to the full, revealing the real man behind the legend.
£18.00
Reach plc Mark Hateley: Hitting the Mark: My Story
Book SynopsisHitting the Mark is the explosive, hard-hitting, no-holds-barred autobiography of 80's and 90's football icon, Mark Hateley. Born into a football family - Mark's father Tony played for among others, Aston Villa, Liverpool and Chelsea - Mark was destined to forge a career in the game. After starting out with Coventry City, Mark spent a year at Portsmouth before earning a lucrative move to Serie A with AC Milan. A fearsome, all-action centre forward with an eye for goal, Mark immediately endeared himself to the fans of I Rosseneri when he scored the winning goal in the Milan derby against Internazionale. Still revered by the infamous Curva Sud today, Mark left Milan in 1987 and joined Monaco. He scored 14 league goals and won the Ligue 1 title in his debut season, but two serious ankle injuries ruled Mark out the game for the best part of a year. Mark reflects honestly on his rehabilitation and the impact his absence from football had on him. When he was fit to return to action, Mark moved to Rangers for a fee of GBP1,000,000. And during his time at Ibrox, he won six league titles, three Scottish League Cups and two Scottish Cups. Mark struck fear into the hearts of Scottish defences and scored over 100 goals for Rangers. He forged a prolific partnership with Ally McCoist and became the first Englishman to be voted Scotland's Player of the Year in 1994. Despite this Mark was overlooked for a place in the England squad. Capped 10 times at U21 level, Mark was the winner of the Golden Player at the 1984 U21 European Championships and announced himself at international level with a goal in the Maracana in 1984. But he only added a further one cap to his senior level total of 32 while with Rangers. In the book, Mark explains why he was overlooked so often and how it galvanised him and made him play at an even higher level for Rangers. Mark joined Queens Park Rangers in September 1995 but returned to Ibrox 18 months later to help the club clinch their ninth successive league title. After a short spell as player-manager of Hull City and an ill-fated move to Ross County, Mark moved into the media and has latterly been an ambassador for Rangers. Featuring an insight into what life was like in the inner sanctum of each of the clubs he played for, Mark talks candidly about the highs and lows of his career, his team-mates and managers and how they helped shape his time in the game. The book also analyses the Hateley family football dynasty. The foreword for the book is by Graeme Souness, and there are contributions from leading lights of world football, including, among others, Arsene Wenger, Paolo Maldini, Sir David Murray and Glenn Hoddle. Mark rarely missed the target during his career and Hitting the Mark is the same, making it a must-read for football fans.
£18.04
Reach plc My Rock and Roll Football Story
Book SynopsisMariner is Plymouth Argyle legend, an FA Cup and UEFA Cup winner with Ipswich Town, a scorer for England at the World Cup and a former Arsenal and Portsmouth striker. A true front man in every sense - talented, brave and fearless - but his toughest fight was yet to come when he was diagnosed with brain cancer in October 2020. This is his story.
£17.09
Reach plc Arsenal and After - My Story
Book SynopsisA compelling, relevant and dramatic life story from the front line of the modern game. Paul Davis's story takes us on a journey through almost 50 years at the very top in football: a leading player's take on an extraordinary and memorable period in Arsenal's history, during which the club and football changed radically and forever around him. Davis won titles and cups with Arsenal but, to do so, had to battle against career-threatening injuries and to handle the frustrations and injustices of the worst kinds of club and dressing room politics. His subsequent experiences as a coach and as a coach-developer have been just as challenging, just as emotionally charged, and just as significant. It's a life story worth the telling, that's for sure. Arsenal And After - An Education offers more than just a fascinating football story. Paul's mum, Ruby, arrived in England from Jamaica in the late 1950s, as part of the Windrush generation. She brought up Paul and his sister, Sandra, on her own, on a council estate in Stockwell, South London. Much of the Davis family history was - and still is - a mystery to Paul, who never knew or knew anything about his father. He was already a senior player at Arsenal before he discovered he had siblings: the three children Ruby had left behind in Kingston when she'd struck out for a new life in England, thirty years before. As a teenager, Davis was often the only black player wearing Arsenal colours. As often as not, he'd be the only black player on the pitch. With that came challenges: racism in football and beyond in the early 1980s was undiluted and unapologetic. The fight for recognition - for opportunity and for change - has been part of the Davis story ever since. His own emotional experiences are the lens through which he now looks back on everything he's achieved as a player, as a coach and as an educator.
£18.00
Reach plc Mick Clegg: The Power and the Glory
Book SynopsisRenowned within world sport as one of the industry's leading coaches, Mick Clegg is an innovator in his field whose work has yielded the highest rewards in a variety of disciplines. Born in Dukinfield, Greater Manchester, Mick is best known for his work during almost a dozen years as Manchester United's first Power Development coach. Loved by Sir Alex Ferguson for his no-nonsense approach to his work, Mick's time at the club not only yielded close personal and professional relationships with a galaxy of star players, it also coincided with a period of unparalleled success in the club's history. Widely credited with a starring role in the evolution of Cristiano Ronaldo and a variety of other eminent footballers, Mick left United in 2011 and used his departure as the springboard for further success coaching athletes in other sports. A father to five children who he raised into sporting excellence against the odds, Mick underwent a remarkable life journey even before his career path took the unexpected twist towards Old Trafford. Thereafter, his tale was punctuated by some of modern sport's leading names, giving him a unique insight into the machinations of elite athletes, both as public idols and as fragile humans. Told in full for the first time, The Power and the Glory is Mick's inspirational tale of strength and weakness, both in sport and in life, providing unparalleled insight into the art of coaching from grassroots amateurs to world champions.
£13.49
Reach plc Half Truths: My Triumphs, My Mistakes, My Untold
Book SynopsisMike Phillips is one of Welsh rugby's most decorated players. With multiple Grand Slams and Lions tours under his belt, he was revered all over the world for his aggressive, in-your-face style of play. Off the field, his early years were littered with controversy and scandal as he wrestled with the new-found fame that success brought. In this brutally honest, tell-all autobiography, Mike reveals his run-ins with the police on the streets of Cardiff, what really went on inside the Wales and Lions dressing rooms and the truth behind that fateful night outside McDonald's, when a scrape with a bouncer saw him hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons on the eve of a World Cup training camp. He also discusses the personal turmoil that, at times, engulfed him and how he was able to block it all out to become one of the best players in the world. Phillips opens up about every aspect of his much talked about career, from the many glorious highs to struggling with fame, coping with pressure, dealing with rejection and retirement while ultimately finding personal peace and happiness. He lifts the lids on his relationship with Warren Gatland and talks about the big characters in the dressing room, from Sam Warburton to Dan Carter. Mike Phillips: Half Truths - My Triumphs, My Mistakes, My Untold Story is a no-holds barred account of a rugby life lived to the full, revealing the real man behind the legend.
£10.78
Reach plc Ian McKinley: Second Sight: Rugby and Redemption
Book SynopsisRugby's long history is full of tales of inspirational courage. Yet there has never been a rugby player quite as remarkable, quite as jaw-droppingly brave, as Ian McKinley. On January 16, 2010, the young fly-half was one of Ireland's hottest rugby prospects. But his life was about to change forever. While playing for University College Dublin, a horrifying injury to his left eye saw McKinley's vision, his world and his future come crashing down around him. The injury left McKinley blind in one eye and bereft, forcing him into early retirement, his life plans scattered in the wind. After relocating to Italy to heal and rebuild himself as a youth rugby coach, a heartbroken McKinley battled on until, in the end, he vowed to do whatever it took to once again play the sport he loved. As he discloses in Second Sight in painstaking detail for the first time, McKinley poured his heart and soul into finding a way to play. He endlessly researched specialist goggles and he tenaciously fought his case against sceptical World Rugby bosses until finally, finally, he did the impossible - he came back. On November 11, 2017, against Fiji, McKinley became the first visually impaired man to ever feature in a Test match, playing at fly-half for Italy - his beloved, adopted nation. His efforts drew gasps of admiration from the crowd and tears of respect from teammates and opposition alike. In Second Sight, McKinley outlines how returning to rugby gave him the chance to highlight his skill at the highest level but, more importantly, how it helped him make peace with his injury and the unique way fate has intervened in his life. After eventually retiring for a second, and final, time in March 2021, in Second Sight McKinley tells an astounding sporting story like no other - and a tale that deserves to be heard, and applauded, around the globe.
£15.29
Reach plc Jurgen Klopp Notes On A Season 2021/2022: Journey
Book SynopsisNotes on a Season 2021/2022 - The Chase is an official club book that provides a fascinating look back at this unique campaign in the words of the Liverpool manager who made it all possible. This is the story of an unforgettable campaign in Jurgen Klopp's own words about another famous chapter in Anfield history.
£10.44
Reach plc Pep Guardiola: Notes on a Season 2021/2022:
Book SynopsisWhen Pep Guardiola was appointed Manchester City boss in the summer of 2016, the dawning of a new age began. Itis a glorious time to be a Manchester City fan and Notes on a Season 2021/22 - Champions Again' provides a unique glimpse into one of the all-time great managers writing another famous chapter in the club's history.
£10.44
Reach plc Our Year: European Champions 2022: The Official
Book Synopsis2022 will go down as a historic, defining year for English football. When Sarina Wiegman’s team dramatically edged out Germany in the European Championship final in front of a sold-out Wembley, they ended a 56-year wait for a major trophy. To win the biggest prizes, you must never give in and England did just that and thrilled the nation with their gutsy, stylish, heroic performances during an unforgettable summer festival of football on home turf. This is the only official book of their historic triumph, reliving every kick of a thrilling tournament and telling the personal stories of the players who made it all happen. This European Championship triumph is more than just a great moment in English football history, it is a game-changer for sporting culture. Be inspired again by the legends of 2022 who dared to dream…
£18.00
Reach plc Rene Meulensteen: United, Sir Alex & Me: My Life
Book SynopsisManchester United enjoyed their greatest generation under Sir Alex Ferguson. The rulebook on domestic domination was rewritten as the club became the most successful in British football history. For the first time, one of Ferguson's closest aides lifts the lid on the inner workings at Carrington, as Rene Meulensteen, one of the game's greatest minds, shares all the stories and secrets that contributed and illuminated the most glittering managerial era in football history. Meulensteen's story begins in a provincial region of Holland; a student of the game, Rene explains how he fought through red tape and bureaucracy to establish himself as a coach with principles he firmly believed in, and how those visionary methods saw him land a remarkable position at the world's biggest club, overseeing the technical development of their most precious department - the youth system. Meulensteen talks about working with stars like Roy Keane, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs, before he was called to work with the first team on a more permanent basis. There, he enjoyed notable contributions, transforming Cristiano Ronaldo into a goal monster and featuring heavily in the move that brought Robin van Persie to Old Trafford. From being Ferguson's right-hand man to going out on his own, Meulensteen explains his philosophy in an inspiring and accessible way. Moreover, this autobiography is a compelling and addictive love-letter to the fabric of everything Manchester United stands for. The exploration and explanation of United's style of play will thrill supporters and stun analysts, as one of the sport's greatest minds finally shares his fascinating journey in football.
£17.09
Reach plc Tony Gale - That's Entertainment: My
Book SynopsisIn a footballing career spanning 21 years, Tony Gale played over 720 games on almost every league pitch across the four divisions. He is one of only 16 players in the UK to have played over 300 games for two teams and one of a handful to be part of a Premier League winning side. As a pundit he's commentated on over 3,000 live games for the likes of Sky and Capital Gold, covering virtually every major football competition in his inimitable light hearted manner. Gale made his first team debut at Fulham Football Club at the ripe age of 16, before being made captain at 18. Playing alongside a golden era of greats, the anecdotes which Gale recounts while playing alongside George Best, Bobby Moore and Rodney Marsh are a nostalgic masterclass. Moving to West Ham for the next decade, the Pimlico born defender was part of the iconic 'Boys of 86' squad, which broke 17 records that year, 16 of which are still unbeaten. Exiting at his lowest point from West Ham in 1994, with two weeks to go before the new season, Gale was in effect homeless and jobless in footballing terms. That however all changed when he landed a place at Blackburn Rovers. Sir Kenny Dalglish recalled the decision to include 35-year-old Gale into the squad of 94/95. "His experience was a big help and the positive impact he made in the dressing room was excellent. He made his contribution to us winning the league, same as everybody on that team." Void of any media training, Gale's move into radio and television commentary in the late 90's was as natural as kicking a ball. In the words of Chris Kamara, "The one thing that stayed with Galey is that dressing room humour, which you all miss when you stop playing football. The one liners, the windups. Galey brought them from the dressing room and into real life."
£18.00
Reach plc Victor Chandler: Put Your Life On It
Book SynopsisVictor Chandler, the most recognisable face in bookmaking, tells his remarkable life story in 'Put Your Life On It: Staying At The Top in the Cut-throat World of Gambling.' In this new authorised biography written by Jamie Reid, Chandler will reveal how gambling was in his blood from birth. Discover how his grandfather dealt with Darby Sabini's Italian mob, Alfie Solomons and the real Peaky Blinders. How his father, Victor senior, built up the firm only for illness to force 'Young Victor' into the fray at the age of 23 - the start of a high life and fast times. To begin with, he found the going tough. He almost accepted an offer to sell up from Playboy Bookmakers. But fortunately he stuck with it just in time to enjoy his first profitable Royal Ascot and from then on there was no going back. In the face of the UK recession in the 1990s he went out to the Far East and began duelling audaciously with colossal Asian punters while dodging the attentions of the Triads in Hong Kong and Macau. Then at the end of the decade he sparked a revolution by moving his entire business offshore to Gibraltar; he is often credited with being the first to take gambling online. Victor shares his often hilarious memories of 40 years of a high-octane racing and bookmaking life, populated by a huge cast of colourful characters including the artist Lucian Freud, who painted 'VC' as well as betting with him.
£9.49
Reach plc Trent Alexander-Arnold: The Scouser In Our Team:
Book SynopsisNo2 in Liverpool Football Club’s official Icons series The new reds vice-captain and his sensational story so far He’s Alexander-Arnold He’s Alexander-Arnold He’s Alexander-Arnold The Scouser in our team! Trent Alexander-Arnold is living the dream as the local lad proudly playing for his boyhood club. As he begins his first season as Reds vice-captain, this official souvenir special – the second in the club’s new Icons series – tells his sensational story so far. From his lightning progress in the LFC Academy to his breakthrough season in 2016/17; becoming a Champions League winner at just 20 years of age and then a Premier League champion; redefining the modern full-back role with assist after outrageous assist and stunning free-kicks; and now adapting to a hybrid role which has earned him a new nickname: the Scouse Pirlo! Featuring stunning imagery and fascinating archive interviews with the matchday programme and magazine, this Trent special is one to treasure. “I’ve always felt I’ve been a mature person for my age, but every year I’ve tried to take on more responsibility for the team and how we play and how we conduct ourselves. You need to lay the foundations first and you need to act like a leader before you’re given that responsibility – that’s something I try to do every year.” “Being made vice-captain has come at a good time, at a good age. I’ve played a lot of games, I’ve been through a lot in football, and to be able to have this kind of role is something I’m proud of and want to use as a stepping-stone to go on and lead the team someday.
£9.50
Daunt Books Poverty Creek Journal
Book Synopsis
£8.54
Verite CM Ltd Zeros to Heroes
Book Synopsis
£13.77
Whitefox Publishing Ltd Mad About the Boys: Fame, fitness and teaching
Book SynopsisIn her funny, poignant and absorbing memoir, 'Mad Lizzie' Webb charts her phenomenal rise from a drama and dance teacher to being crowned the beloved fitness queen of breakfast television. Throughout the late eighties and nineties, Lizzie Webb inspired the nation to get up and move as TV-am's fitness guru. The music featured in her routines shot to the top of the charts, resulting in hits for the likes of Take That, Sonia and George Harrison. She also collaborated with Simon Cowell for several years. Meanwhile, outside her television work Lizzie has been committed to working with young people, creating life-changing opportunities with exercise, dance and drama that have helped transform the lives of vulnerable children, juvenile offenders and former prisoners. Filled with heartfelt stories of the wonderful people she has helped along the way, as well as fond reminiscences and hilarious stories from her time on breakfast TV, Mad About the Boys reveals the fascinating two sides to Lizzie's extraordinary and inspiring life.Trade Review'Lizzie is a trailblazer and her kindness, warmth and enthusiasm shine out from every page. If only we could bottle her sense of fun and optimism. A really lovely and heart warming read.' LORRAINE KELLY; 'A wonderful story, wonderfully told. Funny, touching, inspiring' GYLES BRANDRETH; 'Mad Lizzie was a fixture on our screens for many years but few of her millions of followers knew about her life as a teacher in some of the most challenging schools in the country. "Mad About the Boys" is a page turner and those pages positively crackle with Lizzie Webb's inspiring personality.' ALAN JOHNSON; 'Lizzie's brilliant book is the perfect life lesson for anyone - like me! - who believes that staying fit and focused are the keys to mental and physical wellbeing.' SIR STEVE REDGRAVE
£19.00
Mirror Books Jaco Van Gass: Unequivocal - My Story
Book SynopsisJaco van Gass was 23 when he was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade in Afghanistan in 2009. Losing his left arm to the blast, he sustained life-threatening injuries that stopped his heart twice; yet by a miracle - and the skill of the medics treating him - he survived. Against all the odds, Jaco has fought to build a post- injury life as an adventurer and professional athlete, a journey that has taken him from the slopes of the world's highest mountains to the North Pole, from the Carretera Austral to international cycling competitions in an Olympic velodrome. In his inspirational autobiography, Jaco tells his compelling and inspiring story, starting with his childhood in South Africa and ending on the podium in Tokyo. Shedding light on the potholes and pitfalls encountered along the way, he paints a vivid picture of the harshness of Basic Training, the cruel realities of war, the struggle to rebuild his life after losing a limb, the energy-sapping cold experienced at 6,000 metres above sea level, and the complexities of navigating the world of British Cycling. From the dust of the Afghan desert to the blinding whiteness of the North Pole, Jaco's story is one of horror and of great hope, of near-death escapes and of fierce resolve, and, above all, his unequivocal determination to succeed. Jaco has overcome extraordinary odds, not only in refusing to let injury define his life, but in going on to tackle challenges of which few people would even dream. Not just for adventure and military enthusiasts, Unequivocal is for any reader looking for an honest, inspiring voice that will encourage them to live life to the full.
£15.29
