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Recommend this book:
Wanderer's Journey
A Refugee's Search For a Home in the Beautiful Game
Vedran Dedic
2025 Finalist
290 Pages
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Sports
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Wanderer’s Journey by Vedran Dedić is a moving and emotionally charged memoir that skillfully melds the universal appeal of football with the personal struggles and triumphs of a refugee searching for a new home. Dedić's journey from Bosnia to Germany and eventually to the United States is a backdrop for his intense love of football, which remains constant throughout the upheaval of displacement. The memoir chronicles his geographical journey and emotional and cultural adaptation, using football as a metaphor for belonging and identity. His vivid recounting of matches, like the Dortmund versus Juventus Champions League final, reflects the excitement and universal language of the sport.
Vedran Dedić's ability to capture the essence of his experiences through the lens of football fandom makes Wanderer’s Journey a compelling, informative, and deeply moving read. This book will appeal to readers who seek stories of perseverance, the unifying power of sports, and the complex layers of immigrant identity. It’s unnecessary to be a football fan or understand the game to appreciate the story’s emotional journey. It’s so well written, and the pacing and development are excellent. Wanderer’s Journey will appeal to readers who enjoy memoirs, football, sports literature, refugee experiences, and anyone who appreciates personal resilience and cultural integration stories. The book offers a unique perspective on the game and how it can provide solace, community, and joy no matter where one is. This memoir is perfect for classroom learning to help students understand the challenges refugees face and human rights and social issues. It’s also a great addition to a home library. I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s sharing of his journey.
Wanderer’s Journey by Vedran Dedić is a moving and emotionally charged memoir that skillfully melds the universal appeal of football with the personal struggles and triumphs of a refugee searching for a new home. Dedić's journey from Bosnia to Germany and eventually to the United States is a backdrop for his intense love of football, which remains constant throughout the upheaval of displacement. The memoir chronicles his geographical journey and emotional and cultural adaptation, using football as a metaphor for belonging and identity. His vivid recounting of matches, like the Dortmund versus Juventus Champions League final, reflects the excitement and universal language of the sport.
Vedran Dedić's ability to capture the essence of his experiences through the lens of football fandom makes Wanderer’s Journey a compelling, informative, and deeply moving read. This book will appeal to readers who seek stories of perseverance, the unifying power of sports, and the complex layers of immigrant identity. It’s unnecessary to be a football fan or understand the game to appreciate the story’s emotional journey. It’s so well written, and the pacing and development are excellent. Wanderer’s Journey will appeal to readers who enjoy memoirs, football, sports literature, refugee experiences, and anyone who appreciates personal resilience and cultural integration stories. The book offers a unique perspective on the game and how it can provide solace, community, and joy no matter where one is. This memoir is perfect for classroom learning to help students understand the challenges refugees face and human rights and social issues. It’s also a great addition to a home library. I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s sharing of his journey.
Recommend this book:
The House Divided
The Story of the First Congressional Baseball Game
J B Manheim
2025 Honorable Mention
182 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Sports
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The House Divided: The Story of the First Congressional Baseball Game by J.B. Manheim explores a little-known but significant moment in American political and sports history: the first Congressional Baseball Game in 1909. While often remembered today as a light-hearted, bipartisan event that raises money for charity, its origins are steeped in the tension and political drama of the time. Manheim uncovers how the game was not simply a leisure activity but a strategic tool amid an intense and corrupt debate over tariff reform, led by the powerful and controversial Speaker ‘Uncle Joe’ Cannon. The book paints a vivid portrait of an era when baseball and politics collided, revealing how the first pitch was more about strategy than sportsmanship.
Author J.B. Manheim takes readers into further detail on what seems, at first, to be just a pleasant historical footnote, but turns into a fascinating intersection of sports and politics that reveals the serious purpose behind a seemingly whimsical tradition. As an outsider to American history, it was interesting to see such a detailed deep dive into an area I’d never explored before. Manheim has a real sense of scale and impact of how small gestures and attitudes meant so much more than you’d initially imagine. The crisp and engaging prose style also makes historical events feel both relevant and riveting, animating a pivotal moment in U.S. legislative history through one of America’s classic sports with all the drama, action, and tension you’d expect from it. Overall, The House Divided is a highly recommended must-read for political history buffs and baseball fans from cover to cover.
The House Divided: The Story of the First Congressional Baseball Game by J.B. Manheim explores a little-known but significant moment in American political and sports history: the first Congressional Baseball Game in 1909. While often remembered today as a light-hearted, bipartisan event that raises money for charity, its origins are steeped in the tension and political drama of the time. Manheim uncovers how the game was not simply a leisure activity but a strategic tool amid an intense and corrupt debate over tariff reform, led by the powerful and controversial Speaker ‘Uncle Joe’ Cannon. The book paints a vivid portrait of an era when baseball and politics collided, revealing how the first pitch was more about strategy than sportsmanship.
Author J.B. Manheim takes readers into further detail on what seems, at first, to be just a pleasant historical footnote, but turns into a fascinating intersection of sports and politics that reveals the serious purpose behind a seemingly whimsical tradition. As an outsider to American history, it was interesting to see such a detailed deep dive into an area I’d never explored before. Manheim has a real sense of scale and impact of how small gestures and attitudes meant so much more than you’d initially imagine. The crisp and engaging prose style also makes historical events feel both relevant and riveting, animating a pivotal moment in U.S. legislative history through one of America’s classic sports with all the drama, action, and tension you’d expect from it. Overall, The House Divided is a highly recommended must-read for political history buffs and baseball fans from cover to cover.
Recommend this book:
Helmets to Headers
The Football Fan Dad's Guide to Soccer and the Premier League
B. Ryan Teller
2025 Bronze Medal
100 Pages
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Sports
Reviewed by Foram Vyas for Readers' Favorite
Helmets to Headers: The Football Fan Dad's Guide to Soccer and the Premier League by B. Ryan Teller is a must-read for American football enthusiasts who find themselves baffled by the global phenomenon of soccer. This book is tailored for dads who love the NFL but feel lost when it comes to understanding the beautiful game that captivates the rest of the world. Teller provides a fun and relatable guide that breaks down the complexities of soccer, making it accessible and enjoyable for even the most dedicated gridiron fan. Through clever comparisons between the NFL and the Premier League, the book highlights the intensity, strategy, and passion that make both sports thrilling. Whether you’re trying to keep up with your soccer-loving kids or want to broaden your sports knowledge, this book offers a fresh perspective on soccer that’s both informative and entertaining.
B. Ryan Teller’s writing is engaging and full of humor, making Helmets to Headers a fun read whether you’re just getting into soccer or you’ve been a sports fan for years. The book does a great job of walking you through the basics of soccer, but what I liked is how Teller ties it all back to American football in a way that just makes sense. It’s a fast-paced read that keeps things interesting without bogging you down with too much info. The real action here comes from Teller’s vivid descriptions of the soccer matches—he brings the energy and excitement of the game to life. And instead of characters, you’ve got the NFL and Premier League teams and players, and Teller nails how he presents their stories and rivalries. The book isn’t just about learning soccer; it’s more like a celebration of sports in general. If you’re curious about soccer or just want to pick a Premier League team to follow, this book is a solid, laid-back guide that makes it all feel approachable and fun.
Helmets to Headers: The Football Fan Dad's Guide to Soccer and the Premier League by B. Ryan Teller is a must-read for American football enthusiasts who find themselves baffled by the global phenomenon of soccer. This book is tailored for dads who love the NFL but feel lost when it comes to understanding the beautiful game that captivates the rest of the world. Teller provides a fun and relatable guide that breaks down the complexities of soccer, making it accessible and enjoyable for even the most dedicated gridiron fan. Through clever comparisons between the NFL and the Premier League, the book highlights the intensity, strategy, and passion that make both sports thrilling. Whether you’re trying to keep up with your soccer-loving kids or want to broaden your sports knowledge, this book offers a fresh perspective on soccer that’s both informative and entertaining.
B. Ryan Teller’s writing is engaging and full of humor, making Helmets to Headers a fun read whether you’re just getting into soccer or you’ve been a sports fan for years. The book does a great job of walking you through the basics of soccer, but what I liked is how Teller ties it all back to American football in a way that just makes sense. It’s a fast-paced read that keeps things interesting without bogging you down with too much info. The real action here comes from Teller’s vivid descriptions of the soccer matches—he brings the energy and excitement of the game to life. And instead of characters, you’ve got the NFL and Premier League teams and players, and Teller nails how he presents their stories and rivalries. The book isn’t just about learning soccer; it’s more like a celebration of sports in general. If you’re curious about soccer or just want to pick a Premier League team to follow, this book is a solid, laid-back guide that makes it all feel approachable and fun.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/the-jamaican-bobsled-captain&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41rQD5dg%2BXL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=The Jamaican Bobsled Captain by Ben Stubenberg is the biography of Dudley "Tal" Stokes, the captain of the Jamaican bobsled team who led his squad to the 1988 Winter Olympics against all odds. Despite limited resources, minimal training, and a lack of familiarity with the sport, the team’s determination and resilience captured global attention. T...){kind=link}
The Jamaican Bobsled Captain
Dudley “Tal” Stokes and the untold story of struggle, suffering and redemption behind Cool Runnings
Ben Stubenberg
2025 Silver Medal
276 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Sports
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
The Jamaican Bobsled Captain by Ben Stubenberg is the biography of Dudley "Tal" Stokes, the captain of the Jamaican bobsled team who led his squad to the 1988 Winter Olympics against all odds. Despite limited resources, minimal training, and a lack of familiarity with the sport, the team’s determination and resilience captured global attention. Tal’s leadership was deeply influenced by his upbringing in Jamaica, where he developed discipline and strength. The idea for a Jamaican bobsled team was born from the vision of George Fitch and William Maloney, who saw potential in Jamaica’s sprinting talent. With support from the Jamaican Tourist Board and other sponsors, the team persevered through challenges, from technical issues to public scrutiny. Their historic Olympic debut, though challenging, inspired millions and marked the beginning of the Jamaican bobsled team's lasting legacy in winter sports.
The Jamaican Bobsled Captain by Ben Stubenberg is possibly one of the most interesting books I've read in some time, especially as someone who knew so little about this complete underdog story that transcends sports. Stubenberg does well in laying bare the grit and determination of the team, highlighting both their triumphs and setbacks, and who Tal Stokes is as both a leader and a man. The writing is simple, straightforward, and often conversational, pulling a reader in with an effective balance of the highs and lows of their journey. The book also thoughtfully leans into issues about race and the juxtaposition of the response to the team from an international perspective and its impact on the people of Jamaica. Stubenberg’s book is a perfect fit for fans of sports biographies, who will find this a remarkable and uplifting read that shows the power of persistence against all odds.
The Jamaican Bobsled Captain by Ben Stubenberg is the biography of Dudley "Tal" Stokes, the captain of the Jamaican bobsled team who led his squad to the 1988 Winter Olympics against all odds. Despite limited resources, minimal training, and a lack of familiarity with the sport, the team’s determination and resilience captured global attention. Tal’s leadership was deeply influenced by his upbringing in Jamaica, where he developed discipline and strength. The idea for a Jamaican bobsled team was born from the vision of George Fitch and William Maloney, who saw potential in Jamaica’s sprinting talent. With support from the Jamaican Tourist Board and other sponsors, the team persevered through challenges, from technical issues to public scrutiny. Their historic Olympic debut, though challenging, inspired millions and marked the beginning of the Jamaican bobsled team's lasting legacy in winter sports.
The Jamaican Bobsled Captain by Ben Stubenberg is possibly one of the most interesting books I've read in some time, especially as someone who knew so little about this complete underdog story that transcends sports. Stubenberg does well in laying bare the grit and determination of the team, highlighting both their triumphs and setbacks, and who Tal Stokes is as both a leader and a man. The writing is simple, straightforward, and often conversational, pulling a reader in with an effective balance of the highs and lows of their journey. The book also thoughtfully leans into issues about race and the juxtaposition of the response to the team from an international perspective and its impact on the people of Jamaica. Stubenberg’s book is a perfect fit for fans of sports biographies, who will find this a remarkable and uplifting read that shows the power of persistence against all odds.
Recommend this book:
Game Changers
Inspirational Sports Stories
Dan Gold
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Sports
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Athletes are respected because they inspire people from all walks of life. In Game Changers, author Dan Gold presents the stories of some of these extraordinary sportsmen and sportswomen who not only left a mark in their respective sports but changed the world through their resilience, determination, leadership, and perseverance. Serena and Venus Williams' rise to fame came at the cost of training every day on subpar courts while navigating economic hardships as they grew up in the gritty neighborhood of Compton, California. Soccer superstar Lionel Messi was eleven years old when he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency. Apart from being exemplary athletes, soccer player Marcus Rashford and tennis player Naomi Osaka have also been fierce advocates for change. AFL footballer Ben Cousins and soccer legend Maradona went through their own redemption arcs.
Game Changers is a book any sports fanatic would love. From tennis to soccer, hockey to basketball, author Dan Gold shares the remarkable stories of these real-life athletic superstars who overcame their unique challenges to leave legacies that transcend their sports. Gold does a masterful job of connecting these narratives to emphasize the lessons that readers can learn from these exceptional people. At the end of each chapter, you will discover action plans inspired by the deeds of some of the most renowned athletes in the world. As a hardcore soccer/football fan, I particularly enjoyed the stories of Lionel Messi, Marcus Rashford, and Maradona. This book is a treat for any sports lover. If you're looking for something inspirational, engaging, and illuminating, I highly recommend Game Changers!
Athletes are respected because they inspire people from all walks of life. In Game Changers, author Dan Gold presents the stories of some of these extraordinary sportsmen and sportswomen who not only left a mark in their respective sports but changed the world through their resilience, determination, leadership, and perseverance. Serena and Venus Williams' rise to fame came at the cost of training every day on subpar courts while navigating economic hardships as they grew up in the gritty neighborhood of Compton, California. Soccer superstar Lionel Messi was eleven years old when he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency. Apart from being exemplary athletes, soccer player Marcus Rashford and tennis player Naomi Osaka have also been fierce advocates for change. AFL footballer Ben Cousins and soccer legend Maradona went through their own redemption arcs.
Game Changers is a book any sports fanatic would love. From tennis to soccer, hockey to basketball, author Dan Gold shares the remarkable stories of these real-life athletic superstars who overcame their unique challenges to leave legacies that transcend their sports. Gold does a masterful job of connecting these narratives to emphasize the lessons that readers can learn from these exceptional people. At the end of each chapter, you will discover action plans inspired by the deeds of some of the most renowned athletes in the world. As a hardcore soccer/football fan, I particularly enjoyed the stories of Lionel Messi, Marcus Rashford, and Maradona. This book is a treat for any sports lover. If you're looking for something inspirational, engaging, and illuminating, I highly recommend Game Changers!
Recommend this book:
Swimming for My Life
A Memoir
Kim Fairley
2024 Finalist
352 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Sports
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Swimming for My Life is a work of non-fiction in the memoir, sports writing, and slice-of-life subgenres. It is suitable for the general adult reading audience. Penned by author Kim Fairley, this powerful work chronicles the remarkable journey of the former elite swimmer, offering a candid and poignant exploration of the triumphs and traumas she experienced both in and out of the pool. Fairley's narrative sheds light on the dark underbelly of elite swimming, revealing the harsh realities of abusive coaching, extreme workouts, and debilitating pressure to conform to unrealistic standards. Beyond the confines of the pool, Fairley's upbringing was marked by neglect and instability, as she and her siblings grappled with the consequences of their parents' emotional immaturity. Despite the hardships she faced, Fairley's memoir is ultimately a testament to resilience and the enduring power of family bonds.
Author Kim Fairley's book achieves a special kind of honesty that many lesser memoirists shy away from, especially those who have as many accolades and credits to their name as Fairley does. Through her raw and honest storytelling, Fairley offers readers a rare glimpse into the hidden struggles of elite athletes and the transformative journey of healing and self-discovery that can arise from even the most painful of experiences. The narrative is warm and welcoming to soften some of these raw and harrowing edges, offering a slow-burning tale of hope and confidence that keeps readers feeling as though they’re in safe hands whilst Fairley guides them through her journey. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Swimming for My Life as a heartfelt and well-penned memoir that pulls no punches and will certainly inspire and motivate anyone with an interest in sports and personal growth.
Swimming for My Life is a work of non-fiction in the memoir, sports writing, and slice-of-life subgenres. It is suitable for the general adult reading audience. Penned by author Kim Fairley, this powerful work chronicles the remarkable journey of the former elite swimmer, offering a candid and poignant exploration of the triumphs and traumas she experienced both in and out of the pool. Fairley's narrative sheds light on the dark underbelly of elite swimming, revealing the harsh realities of abusive coaching, extreme workouts, and debilitating pressure to conform to unrealistic standards. Beyond the confines of the pool, Fairley's upbringing was marked by neglect and instability, as she and her siblings grappled with the consequences of their parents' emotional immaturity. Despite the hardships she faced, Fairley's memoir is ultimately a testament to resilience and the enduring power of family bonds.
Author Kim Fairley's book achieves a special kind of honesty that many lesser memoirists shy away from, especially those who have as many accolades and credits to their name as Fairley does. Through her raw and honest storytelling, Fairley offers readers a rare glimpse into the hidden struggles of elite athletes and the transformative journey of healing and self-discovery that can arise from even the most painful of experiences. The narrative is warm and welcoming to soften some of these raw and harrowing edges, offering a slow-burning tale of hope and confidence that keeps readers feeling as though they’re in safe hands whilst Fairley guides them through her journey. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Swimming for My Life as a heartfelt and well-penned memoir that pulls no punches and will certainly inspire and motivate anyone with an interest in sports and personal growth.
Recommend this book:
Soccer Mastery
The little things that make a big difference
Chest Dugger
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Non-Fiction - Sports
Reviewed by Rich Follett for Readers' Favorite
Soccer Mastery by Chest Dugger is an easy-to-read, practical, down-to-earth tool kit of everyday habits and techniques that aspiring soccer players can adopt to realize their full potential in a sport that the author clearly loves and has dedicated his life to. Unlike most “how-to” guides, Soccer Mastery is written with tremendous humility and a true reverence for learning. In many cases, the author freely confesses that some of the discoveries included in the book were happy accidents and that there is still much to learn. Chest Dugger is a pen name for the soccer coaching brand under which the book is distributed; therefore, it is clear that the text reflects the collective expertise of a group of devotees. This, too, makes it unusually accessible and eminently practical. The love of the game is further reflected in a soccer drills worksheet, offered by way of a QR code, that accompanies the text.
Soccer Mastery is written in a warm, friendly, you-can-do-it tone, ideal for inspiring emerging talents to achieve greatness. Each position on the team, both offensive and defensive, is analyzed and paired with appealing anecdotes and real wisdom. Along with the easy-to-use tips and tools, Soccer Mastery is infused with fascinating real-world historical and educational references, which make the book interesting and enlightening even if one is not a soccer aficionado. Readers will find a treasure trove of life skills woven throughout the book – ideas as simple as recognizing that positive people attract other positive people and the inherent value of watching and learning from the best. Soccer Mastery by Chest Dugger has a great deal to offer soccer players at every level and those who wish to better understand them and the game.
Soccer Mastery by Chest Dugger is an easy-to-read, practical, down-to-earth tool kit of everyday habits and techniques that aspiring soccer players can adopt to realize their full potential in a sport that the author clearly loves and has dedicated his life to. Unlike most “how-to” guides, Soccer Mastery is written with tremendous humility and a true reverence for learning. In many cases, the author freely confesses that some of the discoveries included in the book were happy accidents and that there is still much to learn. Chest Dugger is a pen name for the soccer coaching brand under which the book is distributed; therefore, it is clear that the text reflects the collective expertise of a group of devotees. This, too, makes it unusually accessible and eminently practical. The love of the game is further reflected in a soccer drills worksheet, offered by way of a QR code, that accompanies the text.
Soccer Mastery is written in a warm, friendly, you-can-do-it tone, ideal for inspiring emerging talents to achieve greatness. Each position on the team, both offensive and defensive, is analyzed and paired with appealing anecdotes and real wisdom. Along with the easy-to-use tips and tools, Soccer Mastery is infused with fascinating real-world historical and educational references, which make the book interesting and enlightening even if one is not a soccer aficionado. Readers will find a treasure trove of life skills woven throughout the book – ideas as simple as recognizing that positive people attract other positive people and the inherent value of watching and learning from the best. Soccer Mastery by Chest Dugger has a great deal to offer soccer players at every level and those who wish to better understand them and the game.
Recommend this book:
Unsinkable
Cancer, Five Boats, and My 710-Kilometre Sea Swim
Alan Corcoran
2024 Bronze Medal
315 Pages
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Sports
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
While dealing with the tragedy of losing his father, 25-year-old Alan Corcoran chose to direct his pain to a worthy cause. His decision to swim and raise money for charity led to his attempt at swimming from the north coast of Giant’s Causeway to the south coast of County Waterford, Ireland. To achieve his goal, Alan had to face the risks of turbulent weather conditions and being eaten alive by large Irish sea creatures. Even the shock of the cold seawater is enough to send the unprepared swimmer to the afterlife. Does Alan have what it takes to complete his grand swimming mission, and will he find closure? Unsinkable: Cancer, Five Boats, and My 710-Kilometre Sea Swim follows a man's seriously challenging mission to raise funds for charity. It includes such diverse themes as buying boats, loss, cancer, swimming, family, football, and nature.
I used to think I just needed a little training to swim in the ocean, but I was brought back to reality by Alan Cocoran's detailed descriptions of his sea-swimming experience. Though I thought the story's physical details were many, I learned a lot about how to swim and survive in the sea - such as the fact that getting into cold water multiplies our breathing rate by more than five times. Unsinkable is filled with generous words of advice about winning at life smoothly inserted into the story. The book is great for readers who love physically challenging missions and fans of books about swimming and sports in general. You will be inspired to take the first step toward your goal and push yourself to new levels of excellence. Humanity is bound to thrive if more individuals undertook kind, selfless missions like Alan.
While dealing with the tragedy of losing his father, 25-year-old Alan Corcoran chose to direct his pain to a worthy cause. His decision to swim and raise money for charity led to his attempt at swimming from the north coast of Giant’s Causeway to the south coast of County Waterford, Ireland. To achieve his goal, Alan had to face the risks of turbulent weather conditions and being eaten alive by large Irish sea creatures. Even the shock of the cold seawater is enough to send the unprepared swimmer to the afterlife. Does Alan have what it takes to complete his grand swimming mission, and will he find closure? Unsinkable: Cancer, Five Boats, and My 710-Kilometre Sea Swim follows a man's seriously challenging mission to raise funds for charity. It includes such diverse themes as buying boats, loss, cancer, swimming, family, football, and nature.
I used to think I just needed a little training to swim in the ocean, but I was brought back to reality by Alan Cocoran's detailed descriptions of his sea-swimming experience. Though I thought the story's physical details were many, I learned a lot about how to swim and survive in the sea - such as the fact that getting into cold water multiplies our breathing rate by more than five times. Unsinkable is filled with generous words of advice about winning at life smoothly inserted into the story. The book is great for readers who love physically challenging missions and fans of books about swimming and sports in general. You will be inspired to take the first step toward your goal and push yourself to new levels of excellence. Humanity is bound to thrive if more individuals undertook kind, selfless missions like Alan.
Recommend this book:
Shuttler's Flick
Making Every Match Count
Pullela Gopichand, Priya Kumar
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Sports
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
Shuttler's Flick by Pullela Gopichand and Priya Kumar takes us through Pullela's epic badminton career, providing readers with profound life lessons and inspiring anecdotes. It's a story about the first Indian player in 20 years to make it to the men's singles finals at the 2001 All-England Championship and a veteran athlete who coached other athletes to become winning Olympians. Pullela fell in love with the sport as a child, and while his classmates were in class, he would sneak away to practice his badminton skills and improve further. Shuttler's Flick depicts Pullela's journey from novice to world expert level and the challenges he faced in his career, including stinging opinions from naysayers, injuries, and financial issues. This greatly inspiring memoir teaches the value of persistence and pursuing your dream passionately.
Pullela Gopichand and Priya Kumar offer a perfect balance of captivating anecdotes and words of advice, complete with actionable tips and thought-provoking ideas that follow the stories shared. For example, a section that centers on Pullela's amazing work reveals what it takes to succeed: "If you want any kind of success, you have to make peace with getting uncomfortable." My favorite aspect of the book is the movie-like suspense it engenders with its descriptions of intense competitions. We see the author employ psychological games as he fights through difficult injuries to win his matches. Apart from being a very enlightening book that sheds light on the sport of badminton, Shuttler's Flick offers readers an opportunity to partake in the thrill of sports competitions. It will give you a close-up experience of what Olympians go through to win and teach you great life lessons to succeed in whatever you do.
Shuttler's Flick by Pullela Gopichand and Priya Kumar takes us through Pullela's epic badminton career, providing readers with profound life lessons and inspiring anecdotes. It's a story about the first Indian player in 20 years to make it to the men's singles finals at the 2001 All-England Championship and a veteran athlete who coached other athletes to become winning Olympians. Pullela fell in love with the sport as a child, and while his classmates were in class, he would sneak away to practice his badminton skills and improve further. Shuttler's Flick depicts Pullela's journey from novice to world expert level and the challenges he faced in his career, including stinging opinions from naysayers, injuries, and financial issues. This greatly inspiring memoir teaches the value of persistence and pursuing your dream passionately.
Pullela Gopichand and Priya Kumar offer a perfect balance of captivating anecdotes and words of advice, complete with actionable tips and thought-provoking ideas that follow the stories shared. For example, a section that centers on Pullela's amazing work reveals what it takes to succeed: "If you want any kind of success, you have to make peace with getting uncomfortable." My favorite aspect of the book is the movie-like suspense it engenders with its descriptions of intense competitions. We see the author employ psychological games as he fights through difficult injuries to win his matches. Apart from being a very enlightening book that sheds light on the sport of badminton, Shuttler's Flick offers readers an opportunity to partake in the thrill of sports competitions. It will give you a close-up experience of what Olympians go through to win and teach you great life lessons to succeed in whatever you do.
Recommend this book:
Chasing Influence
Transformational Coaching to Build Champions for Life
Troy Urdahl
2024 Gold Medal
314 Pages
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Sports
Reviewed by Zahid Sheikh for Readers' Favorite
Chasing Influence: Transformational Coaching to Build Champions for Life by Troy Urdahl is a motivating and insightful book that offers a comprehensive guide to coaching for personal and professional growth. Urdahl's approach is focused on not only achieving success but also fostering lasting and meaningful transformation in individuals' lives. The book revolves around transformational coaching, which goes beyond simply achieving goals and delves into the process of self-discovery, mindset shifts, and holistic growth. Through different stories, the author emphasizes nurturing a solid foundation of values, purpose, and character. This sets the book apart from traditional coaching manuals. Urdahl encourages coaches to foster genuine connections, use active listening, and have a strong sense of responsibility toward their clients. This holistic approach to coaching ensures that individuals achieve their goals and experience personal growth that positively impacts all areas of their lives.
Troy’s writing style is clear, engaging, and highly informative. He skillfully combines personal anecdotes, real-world examples, and practical coaching strategies to create a well-rounded narrative. The book is structured in a way that is easy to follow, with concepts building upon each other as the reader progresses. The author's insights into the coaching process are both profound and accessible. The author’s coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of understanding and working with individuals as unique beings, allowing coaches to tailor their approach to each person's needs. Troy Urdahl's dedication to creating lasting transformation and his emphasis on ethical coaching make this book a relevant and practical guide for both aspiring and experienced coaches alike.
Chasing Influence: Transformational Coaching to Build Champions for Life by Troy Urdahl is a motivating and insightful book that offers a comprehensive guide to coaching for personal and professional growth. Urdahl's approach is focused on not only achieving success but also fostering lasting and meaningful transformation in individuals' lives. The book revolves around transformational coaching, which goes beyond simply achieving goals and delves into the process of self-discovery, mindset shifts, and holistic growth. Through different stories, the author emphasizes nurturing a solid foundation of values, purpose, and character. This sets the book apart from traditional coaching manuals. Urdahl encourages coaches to foster genuine connections, use active listening, and have a strong sense of responsibility toward their clients. This holistic approach to coaching ensures that individuals achieve their goals and experience personal growth that positively impacts all areas of their lives.
Troy’s writing style is clear, engaging, and highly informative. He skillfully combines personal anecdotes, real-world examples, and practical coaching strategies to create a well-rounded narrative. The book is structured in a way that is easy to follow, with concepts building upon each other as the reader progresses. The author's insights into the coaching process are both profound and accessible. The author’s coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of understanding and working with individuals as unique beings, allowing coaches to tailor their approach to each person's needs. Troy Urdahl's dedication to creating lasting transformation and his emphasis on ethical coaching make this book a relevant and practical guide for both aspiring and experienced coaches alike.
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