Watford Forever
John Preston and Elton John, Viking
In 1977, Elton John was known as one of the most extravagant and prosperous pop stars worldwide. Graham Taylor, a strict football manager who would later be nicknamed “turnip” by the Sun, seemed an unlikely match for John. However, under their leadership, Watford Football Club went from the bottom of the fourth division to being the second-best club in the country. John Preston, author of The Dig, Fall: The Mystery of Robert Maxwell, and A Very English Scandal, tells the heartwarming story of their unlikely friendship. In candid interviews, Elton himself reveals how Taylor not only transformed the team but also helped him overcome his loneliness and addiction. It is expected that this story will soon be adapted for the big screen.
Althea Gibson was a tennis champion whose life did not fit into the expectations of others. She learned to play tennis on the streets of Harlem and her powerful hitting was fueled by a difficult upbringing. However, she was deemed too rough and lacking in manners to represent Black athletes. Her sexuality and physical appearance were also criticized, with her being labeled as unfeminine. Despite facing these challenges, she achieved a historic feat by breaking the color barrier at the US Championships in 1950 and winning Wimbledon seven years later, making her the first Black woman to do so. However, she faced criticism for not actively advocating for civil rights. This detailed biography delves into her life and career, placing it in the context of the racism she faced during her time. It also serves as a tribute to a unique and overlooked figure who made significant contributions to both sports and politics.
Kick the Latch
Kathryn Scanlan, Daunt
Kathryn Scanlan has powerfully and brutally depicted the harsh reality of life in horse racing through her concise writing. She has transformed interviews with a trainer from the Midwest into a gripping read that combines elements of both oral history and novella. Sonia, a tall woman from Iowa, is unable to become a jockey due to her height and instead sacrifices comfort and safety to pursue her passion. The narrative sheds light on the seedy and nomadic nature of this lifestyle, which is presented like a flickering zoetrope projection. Despite the presence of violence, alcohol, and poverty, the book’s sharp and vibrant tone remains intact, offering a rare glimpse into the unglamorous yet essential world of the racetrack.
Unbreakable
Ronnie O’Sullivan, Seven Dials
Is there a necessity for a third memoir by Ronnie O’Sullivan in the world? No. Is it logical to seek life advice from a snooker player known for their tumultuous career? Most likely not. However, there is a certain quality in Tom Fordyce’s ghostwriting that surpasses the typical self-help style. Similar to other authors who have delved into the minds of sports personalities such as Jon Hotten’s portrayal of Geoffrey Boycott and David Peace’s portrayal of Brian Clough, Fordyce elevates this book with his meticulous recreation of O’Sullivan’s notable successes and failures. Disregard the contrived wisdom and revel in the captivating details of his legendary matches against John Higgins and Stephen Hendry.
Bazball: The Inside Story of a Test Cricket Revolution
Lawrence Booth and Nick Hoult from Bloomsbury.
In the past 18 months, England’s Test team has undergone a rapid and significant change. The term “Bazball” is now commonly used and two writers, Booth and Hoult from the Mail and Telegraph respectively, have collaborated on the first book-length examination of this phenomenon that is expected to have a lasting impact on cricket. The book explores the origins of Bazball in the childhood games of former New Zealand player, now England coach, Brendon “Baz” McCullum. It also covers the remarkable comeback of Ben Stokes after a highly publicized court case and the passing of his father. The book takes readers on an entertaining journey through a successful period of English cricket, leading up to one of the most memorable Ashes series. This book is a refreshing break from the current disappointment of the World Cup.
Source: theguardian.com
