Biography: sport Books

Book SynopsisWINNER OF FOOTBALL BOOK OF THE YEAR AT THE BRITISH SPORTS BOOK AWARDS LONGLISTED FOR THE WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD In 1999, Manchester United completed a unique Treble, winning the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League - but more remarkable than that was how they did it, and the stories behind the historic achievement. Matt Dickinson covered the whole story at the time, and now in 99 compelling chapters brings it all vividly to life. When the season began, Manchester United were up for sale, the club's iconic talisman Eric Cantona had gone, rivals Arsenal were the reigning Double winners, David Beckham was a national hate figure after being sent off during the World Cup, and even manager Alex Ferguson's position was being questioned. Early signs weren't promising, despite record spending to bring in new stars, among them Jaap Stam and Dwight Yorke, but soon things began to change.Trade Review'What a treat this book is for every United fan as Matt Dickinson takes us back to a time when everything and anything seemed possible. Brilliantly researched, superbly written and featuring the voices of those who made it happen, this is a delight.' -- Jim White'I wondered whether there’d be anything left to tell about 1999 but this is superbly framed and full of fresh insight.' -- Adam Crafton'Absolutely engrossed.. So many new insights and details. Almost like a football book version of The Last Dance.' -- Miguel Delaney'Full of detail and lovely stories I’d never seen or heard before. Dickinson shows that the Treble season was far from a year-long party. It was gruelling. Totally unlike today, nearly every player was a character with leadership skills - a team of 11 captains. They were tough, totally dedicated to the United cause, but not always pleasant.' -- Michael Crick'For some of us, the greatest story of our sporting lives, told beautifully and with consummate skill and great affection by the brilliant ?Matt Dickinson. Can’t recommend it highly enough.' -- Oliver Holt'Matt Dickinson superbly recreates the pulse-racing, heart-pumping, deadline-shredding excitement he felt as a young reporter forced to write and re-write his copy to keep up with a rollercoaster of a season that changed the history of football... It is the trust he built two decades ago that allows him to get beyond the banalities of many ghost-written football memoirs or compendiums of fan nostalgia.' -- Nick Robinson * The Times *'Full of fresh revelations and insight, this is a masterful retelling of a remarkable year' -- Jon Spurling * FourFourTwo *'The nostalgia in this book flows through the portraits offered of the personalities who filled the dressing-room. There they are, on page after page, captured “in their athletic prime”, on their way to the most successful club season in English soccer history. It is not all sweetness and light.' -- Paul Rouse * Irish Examiner *

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Book Synopsis''A powerful chronicle of the transformation of English football and society through the prism of two very different characters'' Irish TimesJack was open, charismatic, selfish and pig-headed; Bobby was guarded, shy, polite and reserved to the point of reclusiveness. Jack was a gangling central defender who developed a profound tactical intelligence; Bobby an athletic attacking midfielder who disdained systems. Yet the Charlton brothers both enjoyed great success as football players and together, for England, they won the World Cup. Two Brothers is both the story of the most famous football players of their generation and an account of late-twentieth-century English football: the tensions between flair and industry, between individuality and the collective, between right and left, between middle- and working-classes, between exile and home. ''Wilson is meticulous in providing all manner of nuggets'' Sports Books of the Year, TheTrade ReviewRazor-sharp tactical analysis and an intriguing angle of its own * Irish Independent *Gripping * Daily Mail *Wilson is a fine, nuanced writer * TLS *Compelling... gets to the heart of Bobby and Jackie * Late Tackle Magazine *This is a social history, yet surprisingly moving as it chronicles two remarkable lives * Guardian *A powerful chronicle of the transformation of English soccer and society through the prism of two very different characters * Irish Times *Tells a familar, yet extraordinary, tale exceptionally well, illuminated and refreshed by Wilson's particular perspectives and insights * When Saturday Comes Magazine *A book that Jonathan Wilson was born to write... He has an encyclopaedic knowledge of the game... There is much poignancy in their stories -- Books of the Year * Irish Examiner *Explores the careers and personalities of Bobby and Jack Charlton, who we discover could not have been more different, and Wilson is meticulous in providing all manner of nuggets -- Sports Books of the Year * The Times *Wilson skilfully interweaves the stories of brothers with polar opposite personalities who also happened to be two of the most iconic footballing figures in the last century, using their respective career trajectories to tell a broader story of what it said about English and (sometimes) Irish society of the time of their heydays * The 42 *

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Book SynopsisTriumphs, Treachery and Toilet Rolls is the astonishing life story of football legend Francis Lee. With searing candour, Lee reveals how he overcame treachery and betrayals to prevail. This is Franny - uncensored.This remarkable man rose from the humblest of beginnings to become a top-class international footballer, a multi-millionaire businessman and entrepreneur, a successful racehorse trainer and then a reborn football man, returning as Manchester City''s chairman to steer the club towards its glorious 21st-century renaissance at The Etihad.From a childhood among the mills around Bolton, Lee faced up to authority and putdowns at school, at Bolton Wanderers, and to later betrayals in the boardroom, to fulfil his dreams at City, Derby County and in selling toilet rolls to the masses.This is the story of a man who crammed more into one life than anyone could aspire to - told for the first time, in his own words.

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Book SynopsisJohn Devereux burst into rugby's big-time as a 19-year-old student when he terrorised a Cardiff team packed with Lions and Wales stars for his South Glam Institute side in a Welsh Cup tie. His powerful piston-pump hand-off saw him nicknamed the 'Dalek' and two months later, in January 1986, he was making his Wales debut against England. He was one of the stars of the 1987 union World Cup as Wales finished third, the nation's highest ever position in the tournament, and appeared for the British and Irish Lions before being lured to rugby league by a big-money offer exceeding GBP350,000. Devereux was a huge hit for Widnes, playing 185 games and scoring 120 tries, and Manly Sea Eagles in Australia, and became a dual-code international - scoring six tries in eight games for Great Britain, and three tries in 12 games for Wales RL. He was also the last Wales union international to appear in a RL World Cup final when he lined up for Great Britain against Australia at Wembley in 1993. Held in the highest regard by former teammates and opponents alike, John Devereux is revered by followers of rugby league and rugby union and, in his official biography, Devs, tells the fascinating story of his life in rugby.Trade Review‘Devs was big, explosive, fit and full of enthusiasm. You could see he could become something special.’ Derek Quinnell; ‘John is right up there when it comes to Welsh players making a mark on the Rugby World Cup’ Tony Gray; ‘It’s not easy to make the transition from union to league but Devs did it, and more.’ Jonathan Davies; ‘John was, without a doubt, one of the finest players to ever wear the Widnes jersey.’ Jim Mills; ‘He was a player you didn’t just play to, you also played off him.’ Sir Ian McGeechanTable of ContentsForeword by Jonathan Davies 1. 'Is There a John Devereux here?' 2. Garw Valley Boy 3. Twickenham Calling 4. Debut 5. The Brawl to End Them All 6. Accidents Will Happen 7. The Inaugural Rugby World Cup 8. The Talk of Wales 9. Lion 10. Going North 11. Surfing the Waves with Widnes 12. Wales RL 13. Tearful World Cup Final 14. Implosion at Widnes 15. Maninga and Manly 16. Wales and Samoa Go To War 17. The Toughest Fight of My Life 18. Back to Rugby Union 19. Wales, Henry and Granny-Gate 20. The Green Green Grass of Home 21. 2000 RL World Cup 22. End of the Rugby Road Career Statistics Index

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Book Synopsis''Kimber is a 22nd-century cricket writer'' The GuardianColourful cricket history meets expert analysis in this richly researched exploration of the art of batting.Most batters are trying to do their best, yet the top players are creating art. It is physically impossible to face an 80mph delivery and track it with your eyes, yet the greatest batters do more than just watch the ball, they predict where it will go. They can see into the future.This book is about the batters who see what mortals don't. Javed Miandad purposefully made errors to manipulate the field, Sachin Tendulkar dug up a pitch to take on Warne, Shivnarine Chanderpaul was peppered by tennis balls on the beach until he created his bastardised technique and Joe Root's great play against spin is a confluence of three random events. Others, such as Smith, Pietersen and Richards, carried on the work of a man 100 years before their time, and Ranji changed cricket with a bucket.<

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR 2018 WINNER OF THE TELEGRAPH SPORTS BOOK AWARDS BIOGRAPHY OF THE YEAR 2019 THE FULL STORY BEHIND THE RISE, FALL AND RISE AGAIN OF TIGER WOODS 'A rattling read... Superbly written' Daily Mail‘Arguably the most serious attempt ever made to get behind golf’s great enigma' Guardian'Exhilarating, depressing, tawdry and moving... perfectly pitched biography' New York Times Based on three years of extensive research and reporting, two of today’s most acclaimed investigative journalists, Jeff Benedict of Sports Illustrated and eleven-time Emmy Award winner Armen Keteyian, deliver the first major biography of Tiger Woods - sweeping in scope and packed with groundbreaking, behind-the-scenes details of the Shakespearean rise and epic fall of a global icon. InTrade Review'An admirable piece of reporting...a rattling read, taking us through the most dramatic rise and fall of perhaps any sportsman in history. Superbly written.' -- Derek Lawrenson * Daily Mail *'This meticulous, dogged, thorough re-examination of his life suggests there was more to Woods than met the eye... There are many more anecdotes in this pacey, unyielding book that make you squirm as you read them.' -- Jim White * Mail on Sunday *'All the grisly details are here...a professionally executed, admirably even-toned biography whose only fault may prove to be in arriving a few chapters early.' -- Giles Smith * The Times *‘Arguably the most serious attempt ever made to get behind golf’s great enigma, taking a meticulously investigative approach to his fall from grace.’ -- Emma John * Guardian *'A superb read' -- Paul Kimmage'Magnificent' -- Michael Calvin'A portrait more complete than any that have come before' -- David Walsh * Sunday Times *'As forensic an analysis of the golfer’s life and times as has ever been on the shelves in Tiger Woods. Detail of Woods’s infidelity is striking, tales such as how his father remains in an unmarked grave and first girlfriend was ruthlessly cut off from the emerging icon desperately sad.' -- Ewan Murray * Observer *'I found it exhilarating, depressing, tawdry and moving in almost equal measure...There is beauty and awe in this perfectly pitched biography, as we watch Woods’s skills blossom...This intense book gives us Woods’s almost mythical rise and fall. It has torque and velocity, even when all of Woods’s shots, on the course and off it, begin heading for the weeds.' -- Dwight Garner * New York Times *'As realistic and compelling a third-person portrait as we’re likely to get. Highly recommend.' -- Mark Eglinton'A scathing and vivid re-examination of the double life of a serial philanderer, sex addict and liar who was also once a revered athlete and the wealthiest sportsman in the world.' * Mail on Sunday, Sports Books of the Year *'For most of his life, Tiger Woods has remained an enigma, hiding in full view... which is why the American sports writers Jeff Benedict and Armen Keteyian deserve our appreciation and plaudits for their mighty work, Tiger Woods... with their exhaustive research, they left nothing to chance. They cut through a forest of false trails and road blocks, gathering together testimonies on and off the record from scores of people to provide as comprehensive a view of Tiger as anyone could manage.' -- Kevin Mitchell * Observer *‘This scrupulously researched biography chronologically details the life of a man who many believe is the greatest golfer to have ever lived and it reads as a poetic encyclopedia... This factual, critical and thought-provoking account covers Wood’s life on and off the course… It is arguably impossible to empathise with Woods…But this account goes a long way to helping you understand him.’ -- Adam Powers * Daily Express *'With the rigour that marks the best American journalistic traditions...[Tiger's] career chronicled and his flaws laid bare.' * Sunday Times, Sports Books of the Year *'Another triumph of old-school reporting... to reveal a largely unflattering picture of the greatest golfer of our age – although given what they also reveal about Woods’s upbringing you can’t help feeling some sympathy for him as well.' -- Sean Ingle * Observer *'An exhaustive account...of his incredible rise, fall and rise again.' -- David Gurney * Metro, Top 30 Sports Books of the Last 30 Years *'An ambitious 360-degree portrait of golf's most scrutinised figure...it is a book brimming with revealing details about Woods' unique background. The real achievement in Tiger Woods is...in describing how Woods became who he is - uniquely gifted, widely admired, but also emotionally stunted by his parents. The book features fresh reporting on almost every significant element of Woods' story.' -- Sam Weinman * Golf Digest *'Immensely readable...the authors have laid out a saga that is part myth, part Shakespeare, part Jackie Collins, plus a touch of ESPN... Benedict and Keteyian bring us along for the ride in a whirlwind of a biography that reads honest and true.' -- Leigh Montville * Wall Street Journal *'A scene-by-scene account of Woods' rise, implosion and imperfect return. The prodigy...makes for a sad subject. The book is stronger on the insanity that surrounds (and possibly inhabits) Woods.' -- Simon Kuper * Financial Times *

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Book SynopsisFootball Legends: Young readers will love findingout all about the lives of their favourite players in thisgreat new biography series.

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Book SynopsisA Sunday Times Book of the Year'Rahaman has, at last, written the definitive biography on his late brother, which tells the real Ali story' - Mike Tyson'The real life of the Great One' - George ForemanMore words have been written about Muhammad Ali than almost anyone else. He was, without doubt, the world's most-loved sportsman. At the height of his celebrity he was the most famous person in the world. And yet, until now, the one voice missing belonged to the man who knew him best - his only sibling, and best friend, Rahaman Ali.No one was closer to Ali than Rahaman. Born Cassius and Rudolph Arnett Clay, the two brothers grew up together, lived together, trained together, travelled together, and fought together in the street and in the ring.A constant fixture in his sibling's company, Rahaman saw Ali at both his best and his worst: the relentless prankster and the jealous older brother, the outspoken advocate, the husband and father. In My Brother, Muhammad Ali, he is able to offer a surprising insider's perspective on the well-known stories, as well as never-before-told tales, painting a rich portrait of a proud, relentlessly polarizing, yet often vulnerable man. In this extraordinary, poignant memoir, Rahaman tells a much bigger and more personal story than in any other book on the great man - that of two brothers, almost inseparable from birth to death. It is the final and most important perspective on one of the most iconic figures of the last century.Trade ReviewHeart-warming, multi-faceted and hard-hitting [...] Thanks to Rahaman's powerful storytelling ability, My Brother, Muhammad Ali shares with the world a tale unlike any other biography on Muhammad Ali * Fox Sports *No one knew Muhammad Ali better than Rahaman, and he provides a welcome and insightful addition to the extensive Ali literature * Sunday Times *Rahaman was alongside Muhammad Ali all the way, from his street-fighting teenage days, loving home life, soaring fame, marriages, troubles, notoriety, highs and lows. In this long-overdue book, he takes us inside the legend's head and home [...] And just like the man, the book never stops surprising. A must for fight fans * Sunday Sport *Rahaman has, at last, written the definitive biography on his late brother, which tells the real Ali story * Mike Tyson *The real life of the Great One * George Foreman *It seems there is a bottomless supply of revelations about Muhammad Ali, one of the most written-about men in history. Yet more insights come in a book by his brother, Rahaman. From Ali's difficult birth to how he had to be rescued from financial difficulty after he stopped boxing and on to the tenderness of his last hours with his family, the story of The Greatest Of All Time is retold from the inside by his younger sibling * Jeff Powell, Daily Mail *

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for Biography of the Year at the Telegraph Sports Book Awards 2020Shortlisted for Adventure Travel Book of the Year at the Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards 2020On June 3rd 2017, professional climber Mark Synnott was in Yosemite to witness something that only a handful of people knew was about to occur: his friend, Alex Honnold, was going to attempt to summit one of the world's most challenging ascents, a route called Freerider on the notorious rock formation El Capitan. It is an extraordinarily dangerous and difficult climb, and yet Alex was going to do it 'free solo'. Meaning no help. No partner. No equipment. No rope. Where a single small mistake would mean certain death. Indeed, to summit El Cap free solo was a feat likened to Neil Armstrong first walking on the moon.As Alex plots, rehearses and ultimately attempts his heart-stopping ascent, Mark also shares his own personal history of climbing, filled with triumphs, defeats and dilemmas, in this deeply reported, inspiring exhortation to live life to the fullest.Trade ReviewAn enthralling new book. Few sports have as rich and varied a literature as climbing...and this gripping work from the vastly experienced mountaineer and adventurer Mark Synnott is a magnificent addition to the canon...This compelling book reads like a thriller as it ranges over the rarefied world of extreme climbing. * Daily Mail *With the possible exception of the lunar landings, free-soloing El Capitan may rank as one of the most audacious--and terrifying--things a human being has ever done. Synnott's narrative plasters you to a 3,000-foot granite cliff and doesn't let you go until the climb is done. It is one of the most compelling accounts of a climb and the climbing ethos that I've ever read. -- Sebastian Junger, author of THE PERFECT STORMImmensely enjoyable. Tapping his own impressive mountaineering resume, Mark Synnott dives deep into the rebellious counterculture of extreme climbing to get inside the head of Alex Honnold, the planet's foremost rock climber. What motivated Honnold to free climb El Capitan without a rope? "Because it's there" doesn't come close to explaining it. Synnott's The Impossible Climb does. -- Andy Hall, author of DENALI'S HOWLMark Synnott's The Impossible Climb is to climbing what William Finnegan's Barbarian Days is to surfing. -- John Long, writer, producer, and pioneer of 'free solo' rock climbingYes, The Impossible Climb is the gripping story of the most perilous rock ascent of all time - but it's much more than that. In seamlessly fusing memoir, reporting, social history, climbing lore, technical expertise and intimate glimpses of his tribe, Mark Synnott has given us a kind of epic of life on the edge. Even readers who have never set toe to rock are going to find themselves glued to this insanely brilliant account of extreme athletic ambition and endurance. -- David Laskin, author of THE CHILDREN'S BLIZZARDAn accomplished portrait of two remarkable lives * New York Times Book Review *Fast paced and enjoyable. * Wall Street Journal *Synnott, with the skill of a master craftsman, weaves into this text stories about Alex's climbing. . . . fascinating reading. . . . Synnott uses his experience both as a climber and as a writer to paint an incredible canvas. The Impossible Climb is not to be missed. -- Keith Sharples * Climber *Table of ContentsPart One: Youth 1: "The Hon Is Going to Solo El Cap" 2: Crazy Kids of America 3: A Vision of the Stonemasters' Lightning 4: The Stone Monkey Part Two: The Professional World 5: Crashing the Gravy Train on the Vertical Mile 6: The Secret Weapon, Mr. Safety, and Xiao Pung 7: Nonprofit 8: Secret Dawn Walls Part Two: Topping Out 9: Amygdala 10: The Source 11: "Her Attitude Is Awesome" 12: Fun

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Book SynopsisBatting for the Poor is the authorised biography of David Sheppard, telling the story of his life as a celebrated cricketer and his remarkable work as Bishop of Liverpool.Trade ReviewAs Liverpool’s exceptional bishops, David Sheppard and Derek Worlock healed old wounds, championed great causes, and put faith into action in the city’s forgotten neighbourhoods. A first-class biography of David Sheppard is long overdue, and Andrew Bradstock has provided it. * David Alton (Lord Alton of Liverpool) *David Sheppard "stood out" in every sense of the term. He was unusually tall; played cricket for England; championed the disadvantaged; and turned a fiercely sectarian city into a beacon of ecumenism. This book tells us how. * Grace Davie, Professor Emeritus, University of Exeter *David Sheppard continually asked awkward questions, both of himself and others, but always in the context of an unshakeable faith. This is a book, and a life, we could all learn from. * David Puttnam (Baron Puttnam, CBE) *Bishop David Sheppard’s partnership with Archbishop Derek Worlock overcame the religious barriers as they led the fight against poverty and division in Liverpool, which has had a lasting effect and which is well documented in this publication. * The Most Rev’d Malcolm McMahon OP, Archbishop of Liverpool *This is a superb biography. At the end of it you feel you know not only the man, with all his strengths and frailties, but also the times in which he lived, with all their challenges. * Stephen Chalke, cricket historian *With elegant prose and faithful reporting, Andrew Bradstock has produced an accurate portrait of the life and ministry of the David Sheppard I knew and admired. * Rt Revd Wilfred Wood, retired Bishop of Croydon *David Sheppard’s life is fully deserving of this detailed, even forensic, biography. His character fully epitomized the old adage for life, 'make a plan and stick to it'. He was a friend to me in my private life, as well as a stalwart partner on the cricket field – we put on 124 runs together on the final winning day of the Melbourne Test in 1963! * Ted Dexter, CBE, former captain, Sussex and England *David Sheppard, former England Cricket Captain, ought to have been Archbishop of Canterbury. He was a remarkable man, who did good wherever he went. This splendid work is the full-scale biography that we have long needed. * Peter Oborne, author, biographer of Basil D'Oliveira and political columnist for the Daily Mail and Middle East Eye. *David Sheppard: Batting for the Poor is an excellent biography dedicated to the life and times of outstanding English test batsman, captain and highly respected Anglican bishop, David Sheppard. David was a man of principle often facing difficult social times in ministry and sport. He lived his life in sacrificial service to others and for the glory of God. A wonderful opponent and encouraging Christian friend when the Ashes were played in true respect of cricket. An uplifting and challenging read. * Brian Booth, Australian test cricketer and captain *I was honoured to have known and worked with David Sheppard. At least I thought I knew him. What is clear to me from this not wholly uncritical yet authorised biography is that I had only the sketchiest knowledge of this remarkable man of God. And cricket. A fascinating read on many levels. * Jane Reed CBE, former editor, Woman’s Own *David Sheppard reshaped Church approaches to poverty, especially among evangelicals, paving the way for today’s foodbank movement. This great account of his eventful life underlines Sheppard’s lasting influence. * Rt Hon. Stephen Timms, MP *An excellent biography, well researched, well written. Bradstock explores the struggle between ambition and virtue in Sheppard’s life on the cricket field, in the church and in his family. This is fascinating not just for cricket-lovers but for everyone. * Brian Griffiths (Lord Griffiths of Fforestfach), Chairman, Centre for Enterprise, Markets and Ethics (CEME) *The picture that emerges in this book is of a man who far ahead of his time...A suitable memorial to a life well lived. Everyone reading it with any degree of self awareness is certain to be given a cause to reflect on their own beliefs and behaviours. -- Terry Wright * Deep Extra Cover *Compelling . . . This impeccably researched book does ample justice to Sheppard’s remarkable life as a cricketer and clergyman. * Wisden Cricketer’s Almanac 2020 *This is a biography of the very highest order: informed, inspiring and brilliantly crafted. * Christianity *Whatever one’s stance on the religious aspect, this is a superb book. * Association of Cricket Statisticians and Historians *It is difficult to imagine a more enriching life than that lived by Sheppard and impossible to think a better book could be written about it than the one Bradstock has given us. * The Cricketer *A remarkable book about a remarkable man . . . a star who shone brighter than nearly all others and had three careers, as batsman, bishop, and peer. Bradstock has expertly woven diversity into a tapestry where a mass of detail, including pages of cricket scores, supports the big stories of personal theological growth, sporting prowess, passionate social concern, and extraordinary inner-city leadership. * Church Times *A fitting and timely tribute to a fine cricketer, albeit one who reserved his greatest achievements for life beyond the pages of Wisden. -- Martin Chandler * Cricket Web.net *

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Book SynopsisCRICKET LEGEND. WARTIME HERO. FOOTBALL STAR. WILD MAN.''McKinstry''s biography will fascinate cricket lovers'' THE TIMES''An eye-popping biography'' DAILY MAIL''This meticulously researched biography reveals the man behind the controversy in glorious detail. An exquisite read'' THE SUNBill Edrich''s story is one of cricket victories, explosive controversies, wartime glory and a life lived to the fullest.571 first-class matches from 1934 to 1958. 36,965 runs. 29th on all-time lists. 86 centuries. 479 wickets. Bill Edrich was one of the biggest cricket stars of his time along with Denis Compton and Len Hutton. He was a Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1940 and played football for Norwich City and Tottenham Hotspur during the 1930s.In the first biography for 30 years, award-winning writer Leo McKinstry recounts Edrich''s audacity both as a cricketer and an RAF pilot. Edrich''s flying prowess brought hi

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Book Synopsis''A sort of partial British social and political history. It is also memoir and confessional. It is an utterly remarkable book'' ConquistaThe End to End record is the longest place-to-place cycling record in Britain. It is a daunting 842 miles and for the men and women who attempt to break the record, there can be no second place, only the binary outcome of total success or failure. Paul Jones decided to ride from Land''s End to John O'' Groats in an attempt to understand the relentless physical and mental challenges involved. End to End is a captivating and beautifully written narrative. A lyrical account of the journey sits alongside meetings with amazing cyclists; people like Eileen Sheridan; who covered the distance in under three days in 1954, or current men''s record holder Michael Broadwith who did it in a scarcely believable 43 hours. Paul Jones reaches further back to the very first attempts in the 1880s, undertaken on penny farthings, fuelled Trade ReviewA brilliant book, a triple trip: one on the road, one in History and one into the author's mind. Cycling is about all that -- Paul FournelA truly excellent book . . . Paul Jones's End To End is a wonderful, sometimes frenetic and deeply honest book by a man bursting with passion for cycling, its cultures and lore, and people who do extraordinary things. * BikeRadar *Jones's funny and affectionate book is a celebration of 'the fellowship of the road' * Spectator *A sort of partial British social and political history. It is also memoir and confessional. It is an utterly remarkable book * Conquista *

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEARThe story of the greatest long-distance athlete in history a tale of running, redemption and political exile.In the summer of 1952 Emil Zátopek became the king of the running world with an unprecedented distance treble at the Olympic Games in Helsinki. Together with his wife Dana, who won another gold medal in the javelin, they were the embodiment of sporting romance. Born on the same day, they were champions on the same day too. Yet in 1968 this affable but eccentric Czech soldier was betrayed by his Communist paymasters and cast out into wilderness. Hidden from world view, monitored by the secret police and forced to live in a caravan in mining country, he became the invisible hero. Endurance is the first biography to document the remarkable rise, fall and rehabilitation of a man voted the ''greatest runner of all time'' by Runner''s World. It is also the story of a golden age of sport played out agaTrade ReviewFINALLY, the hidden life of a blazing star has been revealed, and it's even more spellbinding than I imagined. No one accomplished more on the Olympic track than Emil Zatopek, no runner was more revered and beloved, yet none of us knew what happened when he suddenly vanished from the outside world. I’ve been hungry to read this story for years, and in Endurance I found all the secrets, drama, and heartache of an extraordinary life. Endurance reminded me why we share this odd urge to burst out the door and run till we can’t breathe, and how for one rare talent, it created greatest and most devastating moments of his life. * Christopher McDougall, author of Natural Born Heroes and Born to Run *Broadbent reveals Zátopek’s remarkable, poignant story with thoughtfulness and journalistic energy * The Times *Meticulously researched and boasts extensive interviews with people close to Zátopek * The Independent *This is the first proper biography of the man who revolutionised running but whose misfortune was to do so in troubled political times * The Times *Zátopek’s is a fascinating story of determination and drive… For the real tale, read the book. * The Pink (Bournemouth) *Rick Broadbent is an outstanding journalist and he has researched his subject deeply * Athletics Weekly *This 314-page book, although thoroughly documenting his races, constitutes a fascinating and often disturbing account of Zátopek’s life off the track. * Athletics Weekly *Endurance is an excellent biography * Goodreads *A fantastic read from beginning to end * Goodreads *Rick Broadbent is a skilful and experienced sports writer * Times Literary Supplement *Rather than focus solely on Zátopek’s life, Broadbent spends many pages writing about the men Zátopek’s life touched. It’s an approach that works splendidly … [It] gives the reader a better sense of Zátopek’s place in the world * LetsRun.com *

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Book SynopsisThis could be a great work of fiction. The damndest thing is it's all fact. - Michael Farber, Sports IllustratedIt was a time of Prohibition, jazz, and gangland murder, and it was baseball's age of magic, when even Hall of Fame players believed that rubbing the hump of a hunchback guaranteed a hit.Broken and deformed by a childhood fall from a seesaw, Hughie McLoon never grew taller than forty-nine inches but he made himself one of the lucky ones. He was chosen as the batboy and mascot of the Philadelphia Athletics. Although the team finished last in each of the three seasons that the A's rubbed his hump and Hughie tended their bats, he became a local celebrity. He loved the crowds and they loved him back.Graduating from batboy to boxing manager, and running his own speakeasy while serving as a secret agent for the Chief of Police, Hughie was the toast of Philly until one summer night in 1928 he was caught in a murderous crossfire outside his tavern. Twenty-six years old, he bled to death on Cuthbert Street. The next day, 15,000 admirers lined up to see his four-foot corpse. The age of magic was now over.The Short Life of Hughie McLoon is Allen Abel's haunting and stylish biography of the most remarkable and beloved of the baseball mascots, and a new chapter in the complicated mythology of the American dream.

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Book SynopsisA new re-issue of the cult swimming classic, a beautiful read filled with detailed description and powerful prose.WITH A NEW INTRODUCTION BY AMY LIPTROTA luminously romantic history of swimming' GuardianHaunts of the Black Masseur is a dazzling introduction to the great swimming heroes, from Byron leaping into the surf at Shelley''s funeral to Hart Crane diving to his death in the Bay of Mexico. Bursting with anecdotes, Charles Sprawson leads us into a watery world populated by lithe demi-gods a world that has obsessed humans from the ancient Greeks and Romans, to Yeats, Woolf, Fitzgerald and Hockney. Original, enticing and dripping with references to literature, film, art and Olympic history, this cult swimming classic pays sparkling tribute to water and the cultural meanings we attach to it.This splendid and wholly original book is as zestful as a plunge in champagne' Iris MurdochTrade Review[Sprawson] has an ornate style of prose, apparently smooth, but rippling with wit and candour… Haunts of the Black Masseur was a delight when I read it first time round and 25 years on, it strikes me as even better -- Craig Brown * Mail on Sunday *­Original and sparkling… A haunting, sensual, slippery read that will make you long for seaweed on your skin and sand between your toes. A must for swimmers -- Rebecca Wallersteiner * The Lady *A wholly original idea...a brilliant translation of a singular passion -- Alan Ross * Times Literary Supplement *A devoted and luminously romantic history of swimming * Guardian *An exhilarating plunge into some of the deepest pools inside our heads... Magnificently obsessive, this social and cultural history of swimming is the best book I read this year -- J G Ballard

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Book SynopsisJan Ullrich: The Best There Never Was is the first biography of Jan Ullrich, arguably the most naturally talented cyclist of his generation, and also one of the most controversial champions of the Tour de France.In 1997, Jan Ullrich announced himself to the world by obliterating his rivals in the first mountain stage of the Tour de France. So awesome was his display that it sent shockwaves throughout the world of cycling and invited headlines such as L’Équipe’s ‘The New Giant’. He went on to become Germany’s first ever Tour winner, storming to victory in that edition by almost ten minutes, a result that was greeted as an era-defining changing of the guard. Everyone agreed: Jan Ullrich was the future of cycling. He was soon also voted Germany’s most popular sportsperson of all time, and his rivalry with Lance Armstrong defined the most controversial years of the Tour de France.Now, Daniel Friebe – who has covered twenty-one editions of the Tour de France – has gone in search of the man who was said in 1997 would go on to dominate his sport for a generation, but never quite managed it.Just what did happen to the best who never was?This is a gripping account of how unbearable expectation, mental and physical fragility, the effects of a complicated childhood, a morally corrupt sport and one individual – Lance Armstrong – can conspire to reroute destiny.Daniel Friebe takes us from the legacy of East Germany’s drugs programme to the pinnacle of pro cycling and asks: what price can you give sporting immortality?Trade ReviewMagnificent -- Matt Dickinson, The TimesA superlative biography as well as social and sporting history * Observer *One of the best books about cycling * The Irish Times *One of the best cycling books there ever was. So well written and such deep research -- Edward Pickering, editor of Rouleur and author of The Ronde: inside the World's Toughest Bike Race'Masterpiece' is arguably an over-used word, but if ever a book was deserving of such a description, this is probably it - The Washing Machine PostA well-researched biography . . . painting a consistent picture of this all-too-human character from Rostock * Cycling Plus *Richly researched and sympathetically written . . . extensive, thoughtful * TLS *This biography peels back the layers of not just a legendary cyclist, but an interesting character -- Joe Laverick * Cycling Weekly *A fascinating illustration of a richly gifted but deeply flawed character * MSN Ireland *Terrific . . . comprehensive -- Best of 2022, Cycling Plus

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Book Synopsis‘Eric Liddell deserves a definitive biography. This is it.’Sunday Times, Books of the YearFaster. Higher. Stronger. No one has embodied the ideals of the Olympic movement quite like Eric Liddell, star of the Oscar-winning film Chariots of Fire. After refusing to compete on religious principle in the event in which he was favourite, the 100 metres, at the 1924 Games in Paris, Liddell won an astonishing gold medal in the 400 metres. But instead of pursuing a path of global fame and fortune, he chose to follow his calling as a missionary in the country of his birth, China, a land which then fell under the iron grip of a brutal Japanese army.Liddell became the inspirational leader of the work camp in which he, like many thousands, was interned, and For the Glory is the full story of his life, of his family, of his fellow prisoners and the terrible hardships and atrocities they experienced in the Far East. This is the tale of a sporting icon, a man of honour and principle who paid the ultimate sacrifice while becoming the moral centre of an otherwise unbearable world.Trade ReviewFor the Glory is wonderful: painstakingly researched, intelligently structured and written with flair. In an Olympic year, it is fitting that an Olympic tale should be the most uplifting. * Daily Telegraph, Sports Books of the Year *Eric Liddell deserves a definitive biography. This is it. * Sunday Times, Sports Books of the Year *Absorbing... in an age when sport is riddled with corruption, vanity and petty rage, Liddell's story is timely. However, the real theme is faith and providence rather than fame and proving oneself. A story about religious belief could be dry fare, but Liddell is too good a subject and Hamilton too deft a guide to let that happen... He is one of the great sportsmen of the 20th century purely because he knew sport's place. * The Times *Eric Liddell's athletic prowess was immortalised in Chariots of Fire. But Duncan Hamilton offers a more detailed and equally engrossing insight into one of Britain's great sporting heroes in this compelling new biography. For the Glory is in turn triumphant, harrowing, moving yet ultimately uplifting. It also cements the status of Hamilton, twice-winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year, as the doyen of biographical sports writing. * Daily Express *Duncan Hamilton's compelling biography puts flesh on the legend and paints a vivid picture of not only a great athlete, but also a very special human being. * Daily Mail, Book of the Week *

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Book SynopsisPacked with fascinating facts, hilarious anecdotes and jaw-dropping moments from rugby's rich history, this compact compendium is for die-hard supporters and newcomers to the sport alike. From the origins of the game to the secrets of the locker room, this little book contains everything you need to become the most knowledgeable fan in the room!

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Book SynopsisWhat fears are standing in your way or holding you back? How do you want to become stronger? Olympic and World champion hurdler Sydney McLaughlin wants to help you answer these questions as she shares her personal story of struggles and victories, of faith and transformation.Sydney McLaughlin knows about facing down obstacles. She has mastered not only racing over hurdles on the track but also tackling challenges in her personal life—from lifelong battles with perfectionism and anxiety to persistent questions about her identity and whether she was enough.Her pursuit of perfection and people-pleasing continued for years until God broke into her story with his overwhelming grace, transforming love, and empowering truth.In Far Beyond Gold, Sydney will share aspects of her life story and personhood she has never shared publicly before, offering a more complex picture of who she is. She will inspire you to: Trade Review'U.S. Olympian McLaughlin debuts with a soaring testimony to the faith that helped her surmount anxiety, forge a new identity in God, and win gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. After squeaking onto the 2016 Olympic track team at age 16, McLaughlin battled imposter syndrome and crippling anxiety that crested during the Rio games, leaving her without a medal and full of regret. She vowed to return to the Olympics and arrived in Tokyo fueled by a renewed faith, which had ignited by her boyfriend (and eventual husband) Andre Levrone Jr., a former NFL player she'd met in 2020. Newly aware that her 'main identity [was]. . . a daughter of God,' McLaughlin ceded what she couldn't control, maintained 'confidence that His perfect will was going to happen,' and ended up clinching two gold medals. She renders her battles with anxiety, panic attacks, and low self-esteem in candid and unadorned prose, and her uplifting message to release 'other people's expectations' and instead 'find your identity in [Jesus]' resonates. Readers won't need to be athletes to find inspiration here.' * Publishers Weekly *

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Book SynopsisSoon to be an ABC reality series entitled Ultimate Surfer, starring 11-time World Surf League champion Kelly SlaterSix-time world surfing champion, actor, and American heartthrob Kelly Slater tells his inspiring story of triumph over adversity From Beach Blanket Bingo to Baywatch to Blue Crush, surfing has fascinated people for years, and Kelly Slater is the sport’s hottest star. He has won more world championships than any other competitor, and he continues to change peoples’ minds about what can and can’t be done on a surfboard. His wild ride has included fame, fortune, a stint on Baywatch, and a high-profile relationship with Pamela Anderson. Not bad for a skinny kid from a broken home in Cocoa Beach, Florida. In Pipe Dreams, Kelly takes the reader into oceans around the world to take on thunderous walls of water and shares the outrageous stories, solemn moments, and undeniable spirit that have made him a superstar.

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Book SynopsisOne of the most recognisable, respected and inspirational men on earth, Muhammad Ali is the world's most famous boxing hero. Ali brought unprecedented speed and grace to the sport, and his charm and wit changed forever what the world expects of a champion athlete. This is the ultimate biography to match Ali's lifetime of extraordinary achievements. Winner of the William Hill Sports Book of The Year Award A superb book; hilarious, sad, moving and hopeful – The Times A monumental achievement…it documents every facet of his extraordinary life – The Daily Telegraph Hauser's achievement in chronicling the life of Muhammad Ali is monumental… triumphant and harrowing at one and the same time – The Guardian A tour de force – The Observer Compassionate, intelligent, fair-minded, definitive, and certainly exhaustive – The New York Review of Books A delightful summer read – The Los Angeles Times One of the most recognisable, respected and inspirational men on earth, Muhammad Ali is the world's most famous boxing hero. Ali brought unprecedented speed and grace to the sport, and his charm and wit changed forever what the world expects of a champion athlete. In the words of over two hundred of Ali's family members, associates, opponents, friends and enemies, this comprehensive and honest portrait relates his legendary sporting accomplishments, as well as the high drama of life outside the boxing ring. From Olympic gold in Rome, to stunning victory over George Foreman in Zaire, every historic victory and defeat of Ali's career is covered. His controversial embrace of the Nation of Islam – with the renunciation of his 'slave name', Cassius Clay – and the historic refusal to be inducted into the US Army makes for compelling reading. Ali became America's first national conscientious objector, and with a willingness to stage his fights in Third World locales, he continued his advocacy for people in need which was honoured in 2000 when he became a United Nations Messenger of Peace. Charismatic, dedicated and a skilful self-publicist, Muhammad Ali was the embodiment of the American Dream. This is the ultimate biography to match Ali's lifetime of extraordinary achievements. The perfect companion for any boxing enthusiast or fan of Muhammad Ali's life and work.

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Book SynopsisLONGLISTED FOR THE WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR PRIZE 2020'The definitive biography of a racing driver who won three World Championship titles' Matt Dickinson, The Times, Sports Books of the Year'Thoroughly gripping...a fitting tribute' Justin Marozzi, Sunday Times Niki Lauda was one of the greatest stars in motor racing – a superb driver on the track and a much-loved personality off it. From his famous rivalry with James Hunt in 1976, as depicted in the film Rush, to working with Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, his career helped define modern Formula One.   Six weeks after the 1976 crash at the notorious Nürburgring that left him burned and receiving the last rites while obituaries were written, Niki Lauda stepped back into his Ferrari at Monza to defend his first World Champion title. Jackie Stewart called it ‘the most courageous thing I have ever witTrade Review'By the end of this thoroughly gripping biography, what is abundantly clear is that statistics tell only half the story... This was a man who was forged in fire... Some of the most engrossing passages in this book, big on anecdote and reportage, have nothing to do with Lauda's racing career. Hamilton...reveals a man who is far more riveting and intelligent than his ability to pilot an F1 car very swiftly around a circuit may suggest. This biography is a fitting tribute to him.' -- Justin Marozzi * Sunday Times *'Hamilton's book is the one we'd recommend. As great as To Hell and Back remains, the new biography adds greater detail from other perspectives... Autobiographies are not necessarily the definitive word on a subject. Hamilton adds a nice personal touch... His use of less familiar period interviews adds vivid colour... What really makes this new biography compelling are the chapters after 1985... It was Niki Lauda's humanity that was his true driving characteristic, and that's the running thread that pulls his authoriative book together.' -- Damien Smith * Motor Sport *'Petrolheads will enjoy Hamilton’s expert analysis of car construction…for the rest of us, there is more than enough to savour in Lauda’s singular character, especially his amusing bluntness’ -- Matt Dickinson * The Times *'A comprehensive and enlightening biography' -- Damien O'Meara * RTE *'A compelling character study' -- Nick Greenslade * Sunday Times, Sport Books of the Year *

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award 2022Craig Bromfield was just 13 years old when Brian Clough, on a whim, took him and his older brother Aaron in.They came from Southwick, a depressed area of Sunderland, where they lived with their abusive stepfather, and from where they longed to escape. After initially meeting Clough while out begging for money, Clough later invited the brothers to stay at his house. From there a relationship formed which would see Craig living with the Cloughs for nine years, where he was a first-hand witness to the many aspects of Clough's character his gruffness, his humour, his big-heartedness.This is a beautiful, inspirational story, which has never before been told, about Clough's gentleness and capacity for generosity. Discover a very different side to this iconic man, one away from the cameras and the football, which shows him for the person he really was.Trade Review“One of the most incredible, emotional, feel-good stories you will ever read” – Daniel Taylor “Craig Bromfield’s love letter, and apology, to the great football manager is an unexpected and moving delight.” – Matt Dickinson, The Times Chief Sports Writer "It's rare to hear anything new about someone like Brian Clough, one of football's true giants. Rarer still that it can make you laugh and cry in equal measure. Quite simply, it's an amazing story." – Jeff Brown, BBC Look North “Be Good, Love Brian has got everything – love, friendship, laugh-out-loud comedy, football, and a heart-breaking betrayal. Craig Bromfield's feel-good story about Brian Clough's life changing generosity ends up something akin to a modern-day Shakespearian tragedy” – Simon Hattenstone, The Guardian “Gorgeously moving, hilariously funny and incredibly insightful. Craig Bromfield’s beautifully written book about his life with Brian Clough is one you’ll never forget as there are laughs, tears and life lessons. It also solved lots of Christmas present dilemmas as I bought ten copies.” – Julie McAffrey, Daily Mirror “The story is astonishing, the writing is wonderful. It is a story about Brian Clough, packed with detail never before shared and from a perspective never before explored. But more importantly, it is a story about Craig Bromfield. You are swept along on his journey, revelling in his joy, grieving in his pain. The emotional honesty of the account is disarming. It means you are there with him. You are inside the dressing room. You are willing him to do the right thing. And in those moments when he falters, life’s context brings empathy. Football fans should read it. But this is more than a football book.” – Adam Bate, Sky Sports

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Book SynopsisJan Ullrich: The Best There Never Was is the first biography of Jan Ullrich, arguably the most naturally talented cyclist of his generation, and also one of the most controversial champions of the Tour de France.'Magnificent' – Matt Dickinson, The Times'A superlative biography as well as social and sporting history' – ObserverIn 1997, Jan Ullrich announced himself to the world by obliterating his rivals at the Tour de France and becoming Germany’s first ever winner. Everyone agreed: Jan Ullrich would dominate the future of cycling. But he never quite managed it.This is a gripping account of how unbearable expectation, mental and physical fragility, the effects of a complicated childhood, a morally corrupt sport and one individual – Lance Armstrong – can conspire to reroute destiny.Acclaimed journalist Daniel Friebe takes us from the legacy of East Germany’s drugs programme to the pinnacle of pro cycling and asks: what price are you willing to pay for immortality?Trade ReviewOne of the best cycling books there ever was. So well written and such deep research -- Edward Pickering, editor of Rouleur and author of The Ronde: inside the World's Toughest Bike RaceA beautifully written, vivid portrait -- Scotsman, on Eddy Merckx: The CannibalWell written and well researched -- Cycling World, on Eddy Merckx: The CannibalA fascinating illustration of a richly gifted but deeply flawed character * MSN Ireland *Magnificent -- Matt Dickinson, The TimesA superlative biography as well as social and sporting history * Observer *One of the best books about cycling * Irish Times *'Masterpiece' is arguably an over-used word, but if ever a book was deserving of such a description, this is probably it * Washing Machine Post *A well-researched biography . . . painting a consistent picture of this all-too-human character from Rostock * Cycling Plus *Richly researched and sympathetically written . . . extensive, thoughtful * TLS *This biography peels back the layers of not just a legendary cylist, but an interesting character -- Joe Laverick, Cycling WeeklyTerrific . . . comprehensive -- Best of 2022, Cycling Plus

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Book Synopsis''A fantastic and fascinating exploration of the life of a great champion... Full of compelling insight.'' - Tom Hiddleston''This book captures the deep complexities in Novak''s mind and his life and how he''s dealt with them in a thoughtful, soul-searching way.'' - Chris Evert''A fascinating insight into the greatest tennis player of all time.'' - Evening Standard tennis correspondent, Matt Majendie''An absorbing insight into the story behind the greatest player of all time.'' - The Times tennis correspondent, Stuart Fraser''Would recommend to anyone with even a passing interest in tennis, as well as those who consider themselves experts.'' - Charlie Eccleshare, tennis correspondent for the New York Times and The Athletic''Mark Hodgkinson goes memorably deep on Novak Djokovic - from his hard-luck beginnings to his gluten-free diet to his unorthodox mind - helping us better understan

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Book SynopsisAn Italian SCHINDLER''S LIST, this is the inspirational story of Gino Bartali, who made the greatest comeback in Tour de France history and secretly aided the Italian Resistance during the Second World War.ROAD TO VALOUR is the inspiring, against-the-odds story of Gino Bartali, the cyclist who made the greatest comeback in Tour de France history and still holds the record for the longest gap between victories. Yet it was his actions during the Second World War, when he secretly aided the Resistance, rather than his remarkable exploits on a bike, that truly cemented his place in the hearts and minds of the Italian people.Based on nearly ten years of research, and including fascinating new interviews, this is the only book written that fully explores the scope of Bartali''s wartime work. A breathtaking account of one man''s unsung heroism and his resilience in the face of adversity, this is an epic tale of courage, comeback and redemption, and the untold story o

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Book SynopsisMy Story in Black and White is the fascinating story of Newcastle United''s head physio, Derek Wright, and his time at the club from the early 1980s to 2022.Growing up on a tough council estate in a County Durham mining town, Derek''s footballing ability was discovered by Arsenal, who signed him as an apprentice at 16. Injury ended his playing career but he remained in football, becoming the youngest physio in the Football League at Malcolm Macdonald''s Fulham. Big Jack Charlton was on the lookout for a new physio at Newcastle and gave Derek a start at his hometown club. It was the beginning of almost 40 incredible years at the Toon.Derek worked with more than 20 full-time managers and hundreds of players, and his stories provide an insight into the hidden life of a famous football club. Behind-the-scenes experiences with players and managers are interwoven with the historical events of the Magpies, set against the backdrop of a city and Geord

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Book SynopsisTony Caramanico has lived many lives. A competitive surfer, TV producer, surf shop owner, astute traveler, apprentice and artist, few have experienced more phases of surfing's development than Tony. Unlike more established sports, surfing's pop cultural adoption began largely in the 50s and 60s. While unfortunately a dying breed, those who've played a key role in its development are still around to impart their wisdom. Steeped in experience, their stories of a time before surfing's commercialization told with an off the cuff you should have been there attitude are relatable to all in search of freedom from today's hyper regimented world. With memories rooted in empty white sand beaches, hard yard travel and the endless pursuit of new sensation, surfing's OGs constantly inspire ideas of an untethered existence. This book will be predominantly composed of Tony's art as these pieces are literal representations of his surfing life. These legible journals will provide a unique window into

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Book SynopsisFor 14 years between 1965 and 1978, Edouard Louis Joseph Merckx simply devoured his rivals, their hopes and their careers. His legacy resides as much in the careers he ruined as the 445 victories; including five Tour de France wins and all the monument races; he amassed in his own right.Trade ReviewThe most accomplished rider that cycling has ever known * Velo *For readers who are after good storytelling it can t be beaten. * Cycling Weekly *The awesome story of an extraordinary athlete. -- Mark CavendishA beautifully written, vivid portrait not just of Merckx, but also his era and his 'victims' * Scotsman *Well written and well researched * Cycling World *

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Book SynopsisAlmost as soon as Gazza burst on to the scene at Newcastle United, the young Geordie was the centre of attention: Vinnie Jones''s notorious ball-handling showed the lengths people would go to try to stop him. Then, with England on the verge of possibly reaching the World Cup final in 1990, came Gazza''s tears - the moment that brought a whole new audience to the sport and helped set the football boom of the 1990s on its way. But then came a career-threatening injury, mental health problems, self-confessed alcoholism and family disputes, as life in the full glare of the media spotlight became too much. Now, at the end of his top-flight playing career, Gazza is ready to confront his demons. The result is quite simply the most remarkable footballing story you''ll ever read: what it''s like being Paul Gascoigne, in his own words.

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Book SynopsisKobe Bryant is a legend – The Rise is a fascinating look at his early life and how he became regarded as one of basketball’s greatest-ever players.Kobe Bryant’s death in January 2020 did more than rattle the worlds of sports and celebrity. It took the tragedy of that helicopter crash to reveal the full breadth and depth of Kobe’s influence. By tracing and telling the oft-forgotten and lesser-known story of his early life, The Rise promises to provide an unparalleled insight into Kobe.In The Rise, readers travel from the cracked concrete basketball courts of Philadelphia in the 1960s and 70s – where Kobe’s father, Joe, became a playground, college and professional stand-out – to the majesty and isolation of Europe, where Kobe spent his formative years, and to the leafy suburbs of Lower Merion, where Kobe’s legend was born. The story ends with his leading Lower Merion to the 1995–96 Pennsylvania state championship – a true underdog run for a team with just one star player, Kobe – and with the 1996 NBA draft, where Kobe’s dream of playing pro basketball culminated with his acquisition by the Los Angeles Lakers.With exclusive access to a series of never-before-released interviews during Bryant’s senior season and early days in the NBA, and tapes and transcripts which have preserved Kobe’s thoughts, dreams and goals from his teenage years for a quarter-century, Mike Sielski’s The Rise uncovers insights and stories that have never been revealed before.This is an exploration of the making of an icon and the effect of his development on those around him – the essence of the man before he truly became a man.Trade ReviewWhat incredible insight into the rise of Kobe Bryant . . . Captivating from start to finish. A must read -- Billy King, former general manager of the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn NetsRichly detailed and beautifully written . . . Even readers who have never watched a basketball game will be riveted by Mike Sielski’s page-turning portrait of a young Kobe Bryant -- Abbott Kahler (aka Karen Abbott), New York Times bestselling author of The Ghosts of Eden Park

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Book SynopsisGet inside the mind of football's most enigmatic icon‘Zidane is the master’ PeleOne of modern football’s most brilliant players - and one of its most iconic and mysterious figures - Zinedine Zidane’s football career is the stuff of legend. A World Cup-winner with France, he became the world's most expensive player in 2001 when he moved from Juventus to Real Madrid for £46million, where his exceptional talent earned him a reputation as one of the greatest players of all-time. His playing career concluded explosively when he retired after being sent off for head-butting Marco Materazzi in the 2006 World Cup final. But his football career was far from over. After a spell coaching in Spain, he was appointed manager of Real Madrid in 2015 and immediately demonstrated that his skill as a manager matched his talent on the pitch, leading the team to successive Champions League victories and establishing him as one of the new managerial greats.Rarely speaking to the press, Zidane is known as a man who ‘speaks only with the ball’. In this definitive biography, Patrick Fort and Jean Philippe take us behind the scenes of his exceptional career, revealing the man behind the legend.Trade ReviewA book that becomes more and more interesting as the pages turn. * L'Equipe *The portrait of a sensitive and generous man. * Tele Magazine *

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Book SynopsisWinner of the Sunday Times Sports Book of the Year 2023 Winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award 2022 THE TIMES SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 A FINANCIAL TIMES BEST SPORTS BOOK OF 2022 A WATERSTONES BEST SPORTS BOOK OF 2022 'A marvellous book' Maxine Peake Cyclist Beryl Burton dominated her sport much as her male contemporary Eddy Merckx, with a longevity that surpasses sporting legends like Muhammad Ali and Serena Williams. Practically invincible in time trials, Burton - also known as BB - finished as Best All-Rounder for 25 years and broke the record for the '12-hour' endurance race; an achievement unrivalled to this day. She won multiple world titles, but her achievements were limited by discrimination from the cycling authorities. Yet she carried on winning, beating men and - infamously - competing against her own daughter, whilst working full-time on a Yorkshire farm and running a household. With previously unseen material and through extensive interviews with family, friends, rivals and fellow sporting giants, Jeremy Wilson peels back the layers to reveal one of the most overlooked, yet compelling characters in cycling history.Trade ReviewObsessed by Beryl. This is an incredible book -- Gabby LoganA story with the ingredients that Hollywood would recognise ... The least publicised, least rewarded great woman athlete ever to be disregarded by her own country * The Times *Quite simply a Tour de Force -- Alyson Rudd * William Hill Sports Book of the Year Chair of Judges *The subtitle may not even be hyperbolic. Beryl Burton, an almost forgotten amateur cyclist who worked on a rhubarb farm in Yorkshire, was not simply the undisputed ruler of British women's cycling for 25 years, but also broke the men's record in a 12-hour time trial. Jeremy Wilson retrieves an astonishing life. -- Simon Kuper * Financial Times *An incredible story about one of the greatest cyclists of all time * Irish Times *Absolutely extraordinary. I feel like we ought to have a statue to her -- Mishal Husain * BBC Radio 4 *To my mortification, I had not heard of Beryl Burton, so pretty much all the material in this was new to me. The subtitle - In Search of Britain's Greatest Athlete - is not hyperbolic: Burton dominated cycling, that most unforgiving of sports, in the 1960s, winning world championships on the road and the track, in 1967 setting a record for the 12-hour time trial (277.25 miles!) not beaten by a man for another two years. A phenomenon. -- Robert Crampton * The Times Best Sports Book of the Year 2022 *Britain's greatest ever cyclist is given the literary treatment she so richly deserves in Wilson's rigorously researched biography of the complex and enigmatic Beryl Burton. * Waterstones Best Books of 2022 *I simply cannot exaggerate how bloody great this book is and how inspiring Beryl's story is -- Emma Cole * Cyclist *My 97-year-old mother-in-law has no interest in cycling but picked it up from our kitchen table, took it home, and loved it! -- Alastair CampbellThe most comprehensive chronicle of its kind * Yorkshire Post *Remarkable -- Ilkley GazetteOne of the greatest figures in the history of British sport. -- Matthew SyedThe DiMaggio, the Muhammad Ali ... of British cycling. -- Gordon BurnA marvellous book. Gives a real insight into Beryl and the times. For the first time I feel like I really know her and questions have been answered. So wonderfully researched, so many things I didn't know! It really puts her on the roster of legends. -- Maxine PeakeLudicrously ahead of her time. Ruthless, relentless, brilliant, belligerent - and quite possibly the greatest Olympian Britain never had. What a story. -- Alistair Brownlee, author of Relentless: Secrets of the Sporting Elite and double Olympic championThe scale of unsung achievement is awe-inspiring -- Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, 11 times Paralympic championJeremy Wilson finds the human heart of a story that gets more extraordinary as a unique athlete recedes into history. Very highly recommended. -- Richard WilliamsJeremy Wilson brings alive this extraordinary woman's achievements (and problems, too - she wasn't always the best mother) in this fabulous biography. -- Sports Books of the Year * Daily Mail *I had never realised the longevity and scale of achievement. I'm in awe. -- Dame Katherine GraingerWhat a story Wilson has uncovered. No one in the history of sport can have worked with quite the self-sacrificing single-mindedness ... a woman of thermonuclear levels of competitiveness -- Jim White * The Oldie *This is not a hagiography, and all the better for it. Wilson brings her personality to life, faults and all. Meticulously researched. Compelling -- Isabel Best, author of Queens of PainA beacon is a guiding light, or a warning signal... a fire in a high place. Beryl Burton was, and is, all of those things. Her flame burns all the brighter thanks to Jeremy's fine book. -- Carlton KirbyA beautiful book that tells us not just what she did, but who she truly was. -- Michael Hutchinson, author of FasterThis is an inspirational story that just had to be told. There are few athletes, male or female, that had the success and longevity of Beryl Burton - but for too long her name and achievements have remained in the shadows. No longer! This fabulous book brings the person and her phenomenal, groundbreaking achievements to light - I couldn't put it down. -- Chrissie Wellington, four times world Ironman champion:Hands up if, like me, you had never heard of Beryl Burton. Shame on us. The truth is she was a cycling phenomenon [and] ferociously competitive Yorkshire girl, who swept the board in all the various British national championships. Jeremy Wilson brings alive this extraordinary woman's achievements (and problems, too - she wasn't always the best mother) in this fabulous biography. -- Roger Alton * Daily Mail *Subtle, full of insight, extensively researched and a joy to read -- Paul Jones, author of End to EndImpressively thorough ... worth every page * Road.cc *A superb book about someone who was great before her time * Pez Cycling News *A long overdue and remarkable biography of a remarkable cyclist -- The New European * Charlie Connelly *The fascinating [and] extraordinary story of Yorkshire's very own ... it is an excellent book [and] well worth a read * Cycling Europe Podcast *Charts the incredible story of cyclist Beryl Burton, who set a world record in 1967 and was Britain's best all-rounder for 25 successive years. Given her myriad achievements across several decades, it is surprising that Burton is relatively unknown among the wider public; this book aims to address that. -- Nathalie Issa * The Daily Telegraph *Beryl was a woman ahead of her time, she was an incredible athlete with an inspirational mindset, and we are only left to imagine what she would have achieved given the same opportunities as the women's peloton now has. We are grateful to Beryl and the women like her who paved the way for our generation to enjoy the professionalism and recognition that she so richly deserved -- Lizzie Deignan MBE, Professional CyclistBeryl is a worthy winner of the award, because it charts the most incredible of sporting endeavours and gradually reveals Burton to be both admirable and troubling ... it is not a book just for cycling enthusiasts. Burton would have stormed the Olympics had it allowed female cyclists to compete, and her story demanded the attention to detail that Wilson affords it. -- Alyson Rudd, chairwoman of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year award * The Times Best Sports Book of The Year *Jeremy Wilson provides a convincing case in his tribute to this elusive and remarkable figure -- Best Sport Books of the Year * The 42 *An incredible story about one of the nation's greatest-ever athletes that you probably haven't heard of - until now. * The Sport Review *A fascinating book ... brilliant story [and] definitely well worth checking out. There's been many plaudits for Jeremy's amazing book, but a common thread that runs through them is how thoroughly well researched it is. -- Anthony Walsh and James Spender * Cyclist Magazine Podcast *The Telegraph chief sports writer Jeremy Wilson set out to learn more about Beryl Burton and at the end of a long investigative odyssey ended up convinced that Burton was the greatest athlete this country has ever produced. Who are we to argue? * Cycling Weekly Gift Guide *I loved it, as everyone else has [and] recommend people get it, read it cover to cover and be amazed by the life of Beryl Burton. * Spokesmen Cycling Podcast *Wilson's account is thoroughly-researched, comprehensive, engaging and accessible. This is not a story of a neatly compartmentalised double life of super-human achievement and domestic bliss; it is the tale of a champion driven by childhood trauma who forced colossal sacrifices at home in her relentless pursuit of competition ... [and] he skilfully guides the reader through a rich collection of first-hand accounts, carefully arranged to allow a balanced view * Critic *

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Book Synopsis Torry: The Life and Career of a Football Great is the story of the remarkable Torry Gillick, a Scottish international footballer revered both in Glasgow and Liverpool.On the pitch, Gillick won every possible honour in Scottish football with Rangers across two spells at Ibrox, and was the only player signed twice by the legendary Bill Struth. At Everton, he was a key player in their famous league title triumph in 1939, making the club the last champions before World War Two.Gillick was a character and an entertainer, his skills and goals earning him a place in the Hall of Fame at both clubs. But his story is about more than his wonderful football career; it is one of a family man whose life was blighted by tragedy and heartache, but who always emerged stronger and who earned respect and friendship in and out of football.

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Book SynopsisFrom James Gray, author of the bestselling Max Verstappen, comes the very first biography of Lewis Hamilton's designated successor George Russell, published to mark the British Grand Prix.From dominating the karting tracks of East Anglia to the top of the podium in Formula 3 and Formula 2, George Russell has now fully established himself as a rising Formula 1 star. After cutting his teeth as a driver with Williams, in 2022 he signed a lucrative contract with Mercedes, highlighting the extent of his raw talent.Driving for Mercedes, Russell has been confirmed as the designated successor to none other than Lewis Hamilton. As Hamilton's heir-apparent, will this protégé manage to follow in the footsteps of the greatest F1 driver of all time?Sports journalist and author of Max Verstappen James Gray traces how George Russell has been setting the racing track alight since the age of seven and how he is now destined to become the successor to the crown of British motor racing.

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