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 Customer Reviews
Absolutely superb, 04 Nov 2008
This book is an absolutely incredible, insightful and engaging book. As somebody who has struggled with anxiety and depression recently, this book has been the focus point that has changed my way of thinking about my illness around. It is an extremely good read, which I recommend for anybody suffering with mental illness at the moment. As for the cricket, it is engaging without being tied down in numbers. A really great read. And to Marcus - I really hope everything gets sorted, and thank you for helping me.
A cricketing hero bares his soul, 16 Oct 2008
I have just finished reading this excellent autobiography. As a lifelong Somerset and England fan I really enjoyed reliving lots of the cricketing memories with Marcus, but it was his account of the ups and downs of his cricketing life and in particular his battle will depressive illness which will leave a lasting impression.
His detailed accounts of his low points were painful to read and his insights into how his views of depression and burnout changed when he experienced them himself were fascinating. The main message I want to give is that Marcus was always a hero of mine with bat in hand, but now he's a true hero as he has hopefully opened up the eyes of hundreds and thousands of readers about the realities of depressive illness and that it doesn't just affect wimps ... it can strike anyone no matter how big and tough they may be.
The writing style was incredibly easy to read and the book was really gripping in places. It's also bang up to date including Marcus's views of the next chapter of English cricket with Kevin Pietersen at the helm.
Well done Marcus and very best wishes for your continued recovery.
The best, and possibly the most important sports biography ever written, 10 Oct 2008
Marcus Trescothick has written a truly amazing book here. Unlike many sports biographies which are stodgy and difficult, "Coming Back to Me" reads easily, almost like a gripping novel. The writing style draws you into a very personal dialog with the writer and before long you almost feel as if you are in conversation with him.
The subject matter too is very enlightening. First of all, there is the history of his cricketing career, which doesn't get bogged down in a dreary list of scores and averages, but bounces along bringing the excitement of the game to life. The mainstay of the book however, is Marcus' struggle with the depressive illness which has had such a major impact on his life and career.
Descriptions of anxiety attacks and those all engulfing black periods that many depressives suffer are described so lucidly that you could be forgiven for believing him to be a professional in that field as well. His descriptions of all aspects of his condition are extremely thought provoking, and served with far more clarity than those from many experts.
The book also throws more light on the appalling behaviour of some areas of the media who did so much to destroy a genuine sporting hero.
Prior to reading this book, I considered Spike Milligan and Anthony Clare's "Depression and how to survive it" as the foremost in it's field. Now I would put "Coming Back to Me" alongside, if not above it.
Tragic!, 01 Oct 2008
My heart goes out to Marcus and his family. He has been to hell and back over the last few years and I really hope that he's over the worst now and can make a full recovery. His honesty comes through in the book as does the loyalty displayed by his wife and family. As a result of reading this book, I will never again dismiss depression as a disease which only weak people suffer from - it can happen to all of us.
I've also learned that the life of a cricketer, travelling the world etc is not the glamour life we tend to think it is.
Once again Marcus, I wish you well and hope you make a complete recovery.
Unlike any sports biog I've ever read, 15 Sep 2008
I've never read a book from a sportsman that actually tells the truth about how hard it can be to be in the spotlight. As well as what happens when you can't handle the pressure. He's brave enough to be able to admit to this, which is something I've never seen before. A great read.
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Customer Reviews
Absolutely superb, 04 Nov 2008
This book is an absolutely incredible, insightful and engaging book. As somebody who has struggled with anxiety and depression recently, this book has been the focus point that has changed my way of thinking about my illness around. It is an extremely good read, which I recommend for anybody suffering with mental illness at the moment. As for the cricket, it is engaging without being tied down in numbers. A really great read. And to Marcus - I really hope everything gets sorted, and thank you for helping me.
A cricketing hero bares his soul, 16 Oct 2008
I have just finished reading this excellent autobiography. As a lifelong Somerset and England fan I really enjoyed reliving lots of the cricketing memories with Marcus, but it was his account of the ups and downs of his cricketing life and in particular his battle will depressive illness which will leave a lasting impression.
His detailed accounts of his low points were painful to read and his insights into how his views of depression and burnout changed when he experienced them himself were fascinating. The main message I want to give is that Marcus was always a hero of mine with bat in hand, but now he's a true hero as he has hopefully opened up the eyes of hundreds and thousands of readers about the realities of depressive illness and that it doesn't just affect wimps ... it can strike anyone no matter how big and tough they may be.
The writing style was incredibly easy to read and the book was really gripping in places. It's also bang up to date including Marcus's views of the next chapter of English cricket with Kevin Pietersen at the helm.
Well done Marcus and very best wishes for your continued recovery.
The best, and possibly the most important sports biography ever written, 10 Oct 2008
Marcus Trescothick has written a truly amazing book here. Unlike many sports biographies which are stodgy and difficult, "Coming Back to Me" reads easily, almost like a gripping novel. The writing style draws you into a very personal dialog with the writer and before long you almost feel as if you are in conversation with him.
The subject matter too is very enlightening. First of all, there is the history of his cricketing career, which doesn't get bogged down in a dreary list of scores and averages, but bounces along bringing the excitement of the game to life. The mainstay of the book however, is Marcus' struggle with the depressive illness which has had such a major impact on his life and career.
Descriptions of anxiety attacks and those all engulfing black periods that many depressives suffer are described so lucidly that you could be forgiven for believing him to be a professional in that field as well. His descriptions of all aspects of his condition are extremely thought provoking, and served with far more clarity than those from many experts.
The book also throws more light on the appalling behaviour of some areas of the media who did so much to destroy a genuine sporting hero.
Prior to reading this book, I considered Spike Milligan and Anthony Clare's "Depression and how to survive it" as the foremost in it's field. Now I would put "Coming Back to Me" alongside, if not above it.
Tragic!, 01 Oct 2008
My heart goes out to Marcus and his family. He has been to hell and back over the last few years and I really hope that he's over the worst now and can make a full recovery. His honesty comes through in the book as does the loyalty displayed by his wife and family. As a result of reading this book, I will never again dismiss depression as a disease which only weak people suffer from - it can happen to all of us.
I've also learned that the life of a cricketer, travelling the world etc is not the glamour life we tend to think it is.
Once again Marcus, I wish you well and hope you make a complete recovery.
Unlike any sports biog I've ever read, 15 Sep 2008
I've never read a book from a sportsman that actually tells the truth about how hard it can be to be in the spotlight. As well as what happens when you can't handle the pressure. He's brave enough to be able to admit to this, which is something I've never seen before. A great read.
if only I was this good, 07 Sep 2008
Having played in a team which never reached the heights described in this book, and being the worse player in that team, I can fully relate to the bitter sweet joys of cricket. For all you pub players and the like, read it while rain stops play.
Bowled Me Over, 19 Aug 2008
Hilarious and genuinely touching. Hoorah for Simmo! I borrowed a copy from a friend and enjoyed it so much that I've now purchased a copy of my own. Not only so that I can reread it - but to make sure that the author gets his much deserved percentage and to drive sales of this fantastic book. Buy it, read it, laugh loads.
A Straight 6!, 29 Jun 2008
What a wonderful book! Anyone who enjoys cricket should buy this book. The historical references to past players are fantastic but also for those not quite so in love with the game, the references to the sweet shop will have you chuckling away. There are some genuine belly laugh moments too. I loved reading it and I challenge anyone not to enjoy it. Buy it, read it and mourn the loss of picking it up for a quick chapter when it's finished.
A must have, 06 Jun 2008
The best book I have ever read. I have never the same book twice, but I have every intention of reading this again. Just brilliant.
Just extremely funny, 09 May 2008
There is a general rule that I subscribe to with regard to sports books. The better the subject at their given sport the less interesting the read. There are of course exceptions that prove this theory, but gladly this book isn't one of them, due to the fact that Simkins is obviously very average at cricket. The book can broadly be broken into two sections, his time at school growing up and discovering cricket and his time as the secretary/manager of a casual sunday team. I enjoyed the first half, due mainly to brilliantly drawn observation which brought back memories of my own childhood and my own struggles in attempting to break into cricket teams filled with better looking, more talented and better equiped individuals who i both admired and hated in equal measure. The second half is just funny because sunday cricketers are just funny.
At the time i was reading this book my partner was revising for an upcoming job interview and on more than one occasion i was ejected from the room for constant giggling and occasion peels of laughter. I defy anyone with a passing interest in cricket not to laugh out loud when Simkins describes his repeated attempts to bowl at a professional at a Sussex coaching session during his youth.
If you enjoyed Marcus Berkmann's books Rain Men and Zimmer Men i would direct you to this because the tone and style is very similar and equally as enjoyable.
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Customer Reviews
Absolutely superb, 04 Nov 2008
This book is an absolutely incredible, insightful and engaging book. As somebody who has struggled with anxiety and depression recently, this book has been the focus point that has changed my way of thinking about my illness around. It is an extremely good read, which I recommend for anybody suffering with mental illness at the moment. As for the cricket, it is engaging without being tied down in numbers. A really great read. And to Marcus - I really hope everything gets sorted, and thank you for helping me.
A cricketing hero bares his soul, 16 Oct 2008
I have just finished reading this excellent autobiography. As a lifelong Somerset and England fan I really enjoyed reliving lots of the cricketing memories with Marcus, but it was his account of the ups and downs of his cricketing life and in particular his battle will depressive illness which will leave a lasting impression.
His detailed accounts of his low points were painful to read and his insights into how his views of depression and burnout changed when he experienced them himself were fascinating. The main message I want to give is that Marcus was always a hero of mine with bat in hand, but now he's a true hero as he has hopefully opened up the eyes of hundreds and thousands of readers about the realities of depressive illness and that it doesn't just affect wimps ... it can strike anyone no matter how big and tough they may be.
The writing style was incredibly easy to read and the book was really gripping in places. It's also bang up to date including Marcus's views of the next chapter of English cricket with Kevin Pietersen at the helm.
Well done Marcus and very best wishes for your continued recovery.
The best, and possibly the most important sports biography ever written, 10 Oct 2008
Marcus Trescothick has written a truly amazing book here. Unlike many sports biographies which are stodgy and difficult, "Coming Back to Me" reads easily, almost like a gripping novel. The writing style draws you into a very personal dialog with the writer and before long you almost feel as if you are in conversation with him.
The subject matter too is very enlightening. First of all, there is the history of his cricketing career, which doesn't get bogged down in a dreary list of scores and averages, but bounces along bringing the excitement of the game to life. The mainstay of the book however, is Marcus' struggle with the depressive illness which has had such a major impact on his life and career.
Descriptions of anxiety attacks and those all engulfing black periods that many depressives suffer are described so lucidly that you could be forgiven for believing him to be a professional in that field as well. His descriptions of all aspects of his condition are extremely thought provoking, and served with far more clarity than those from many experts.
The book also throws more light on the appalling behaviour of some areas of the media who did so much to destroy a genuine sporting hero.
Prior to reading this book, I considered Spike Milligan and Anthony Clare's "Depression and how to survive it" as the foremost in it's field. Now I would put "Coming Back to Me" alongside, if not above it.
Tragic!, 01 Oct 2008
My heart goes out to Marcus and his family. He has been to hell and back over the last few years and I really hope that he's over the worst now and can make a full recovery. His honesty comes through in the book as does the loyalty displayed by his wife and family. As a result of reading this book, I will never again dismiss depression as a disease which only weak people suffer from - it can happen to all of us.
I've also learned that the life of a cricketer, travelling the world etc is not the glamour life we tend to think it is.
Once again Marcus, I wish you well and hope you make a complete recovery.
Unlike any sports biog I've ever read, 15 Sep 2008
I've never read a book from a sportsman that actually tells the truth about how hard it can be to be in the spotlight. As well as what happens when you can't handle the pressure. He's brave enough to be able to admit to this, which is something I've never seen before. A great read.
if only I was this good, 07 Sep 2008
Having played in a team which never reached the heights described in this book, and being the worse player in that team, I can fully relate to the bitter sweet joys of cricket. For all you pub players and the like, read it while rain stops play.
Bowled Me Over, 19 Aug 2008
Hilarious and genuinely touching. Hoorah for Simmo! I borrowed a copy from a friend and enjoyed it so much that I've now purchased a copy of my own. Not only so that I can reread it - but to make sure that the author gets his much deserved percentage and to drive sales of this fantastic book. Buy it, read it, laugh loads.
A Straight 6!, 29 Jun 2008
What a wonderful book! Anyone who enjoys cricket should buy this book. The historical references to past players are fantastic but also for those not quite so in love with the game, the references to the sweet shop will have you chuckling away. There are some genuine belly laugh moments too. I loved reading it and I challenge anyone not to enjoy it. Buy it, read it and mourn the loss of picking it up for a quick chapter when it's finished.
A must have, 06 Jun 2008
The best book I have ever read. I have never the same book twice, but I have every intention of reading this again. Just brilliant.
Just extremely funny, 09 May 2008
There is a general rule that I subscribe to with regard to sports books. The better the subject at their given sport the less interesting the read. There are of course exceptions that prove this theory, but gladly this book isn't one of them, due to the fact that Simkins is obviously very average at cricket. The book can broadly be broken into two sections, his time at school growing up and discovering cricket and his time as the secretary/manager of a casual sunday team. I enjoyed the first half, due mainly to brilliantly drawn observation which brought back memories of my own childhood and my own struggles in attempting to break into cricket teams filled with better looking, more talented and better equiped individuals who i both admired and hated in equal measure. The second half is just funny because sunday cricketers are just funny.
At the time i was reading this book my partner was revising for an upcoming job interview and on more than one occasion i was ejected from the room for constant giggling and occasion peels of laughter. I defy anyone with a passing interest in cricket not to laugh out loud when Simkins describes his repeated attempts to bowl at a professional at a Sussex coaching session during his youth.
If you enjoyed Marcus Berkmann's books Rain Men and Zimmer Men i would direct you to this because the tone and style is very similar and equally as enjoyable.
A beefy tale from Sir Ian, 22 Dec 2007
The updated tale of Sir Ian Botham OBE, England's beefiest ever cricketer, is a good read - an open, revealing and well written "autobiography". Unlike Botham's previous foray into the genre, "Don't tell Kath", no ghost is credited - the publishers say only that Botham had "editorial assistance"- but it is difficult to believe that there was one skilled writer who had a firmly guiding hand on the text. Whoever that was has done an excellent job.
In 1983 Botham was having a lean spell and some in the media were calling for him to be dropped. At a press conference England captain Bob Willis responded to these calls by asking "Which two players do you gentlemen suggest we should bring in to replace him?" This sums up the unique feature of Botham's game - he was one of the few international cricketers who could have been chosen either as a specialist batsman or as a specialist bowler - but as an all-rounder he was irreplaceable. His fame and his devil-may-care personality always made Botham a target and anyone who thinks that the "feral media" is a modern phenomenon should turn to Both's accounts of how he was first pursued by them more than twenty years ago. True he brought some of the problems on himself - a fact that he honestly acknowledges - but he was certainly hounded and shabbily treated at times.
Writing about his long stint as a Sky commentator Sir Ian says "I'm simply stating things as I see them" - and that neatly describes the whole book. There are heroes (Viv Richards, John Arlott and his long-suffering wife Kath...) and villains (Ian Chappell, Imran Khan, Ted Dexter, Peter Roebuck...) and Both is not a forgiving man when aggrieved. But he is passionately loyal to his friends and his work for Leukaemia research reveals that deep down his heart is perhaps his beefiest organ of all.
Botham is perceptive on some of the ills of modern cricket - and especially England cricket. Here he is on England in Australia for example:
"We looked like schoolboys playing against the world's best, never more so than on that last morning in Adelaide. What was going on in that dressing room? What on earth had been said, so that when the English batsmen came out they scored just 30-odd runs in the whole of the thirty-over morning session? What were they thinking? But it wasn't just in Adelaide. Every single pressure session was lost right through the series. Whenever the pressure was on, the Australians came to the party and the England players stayed at home. I can't think of a single crucial passage of play where we came out ahead. Many of the same players were on the winning side against Australia sixteen months previously, but Australia learned lessons from that and England did not."
Spot on! And it's difficult to disagree with Botham's diagnosis of (one) of the causes of the problems either:
"I counted twenty-five people wearing England shirts out in the middle before the start of one Test - who the hell were they all? As well as the players, the coach and the physio, England had a batting coach, a bowling coach, security men, flunkeys of one sort and another, a dietician to tell them what to eat and even a team psych¬ologist to motivate them. Since when did you need a psychologist to play cricket? I never took any notice of those idiots - how many overs have they ever bowled? From the results the team achieved, the psychologist obviously did a great job."
Both is no fool, but like Shane Warne who in some ways he resembles, he can sometimes be a fool to himself. When truly great cricketers like Warne or Botham speak the current crop of players and administrators would do well to listen. But will they? Don't hold your breath!
A man more sinned against tham sinning?, 16 Nov 2007
Graham Gooch apparently once asked Ian Botham who wrote his scripts and that was a question I was not able to shake off throughout this book. The style is so accomplished and measured that it is difficult to believe that the authorial voice is echt Botham.
That caveat aside, this is an always interesting and perceptive insight into the man's life and times; I don't think there is a great deal here which is not already known, but the tone adds a sense of authenticity, suggesting this is the real story.
Like the best heroes, Botham had feet of clay and there are times when he descends into sentimental self-pity; generally, however, the book is positive and forward-looking. As another reviewer has said, there are passages where more detail would have been interesting, but all in all this is a very good value insight into the lot of a genuine modern sporting hero.
Where's the detail?, 04 Nov 2007
A very good Autobiography but only receives 3 stars. Why? It's simple really, for someone who has led such a full life as Botham admits, the book at under 300 pages is actually quite a light (if not enjoyable) read.
Very little is covered in detail and indeed for much of the book, you start reading about an event in his life and before you know it, you are on to the next bit.
Overall, the book resembles much of Botham's life: unable to sit still and everything done in a hurry! A real shame as he is a top man and boy, what he has done for charity...
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Customer Reviews
Absolutely superb, 04 Nov 2008
This book is an absolutely incredible, insightful and engaging book. As somebody who has struggled with anxiety and depression recently, this book has been the focus point that has changed my way of thinking about my illness around. It is an extremely good read, which I recommend for anybody suffering with mental illness at the moment. As for the cricket, it is engaging without being tied down in numbers. A really great read. And to Marcus - I really hope everything gets sorted, and thank you for helping me.
A cricketing hero bares his soul, 16 Oct 2008
I have just finished reading this excellent autobiography. As a lifelong Somerset and England fan I really enjoyed reliving lots of the cricketing memories with Marcus, but it was his account of the ups and downs of his cricketing life and in particular his battle will depressive illness which will leave a lasting impression.
His detailed accounts of his low points were painful to read and his insights into how his views of depression and burnout changed when he experienced them himself were fascinating. The main message I want to give is that Marcus was always a hero of mine with bat in hand, but now he's a true hero as he has hopefully opened up the eyes of hundreds and thousands of readers about the realities of depressive illness and that it doesn't just affect wimps ... it can strike anyone no matter how big and tough they may be.
The writing style was incredibly easy to read and the book was really gripping in places. It's also bang up to date including Marcus's views of the next chapter of English cricket with Kevin Pietersen at the helm.
Well done Marcus and very best wishes for your continued recovery.
The best, and possibly the most important sports biography ever written, 10 Oct 2008
Marcus Trescothick has written a truly amazing book here. Unlike many sports biographies which are stodgy and difficult, "Coming Back to Me" reads easily, almost like a gripping novel. The writing style draws you into a very personal dialog with the writer and before long you almost feel as if you are in conversation with him.
The subject matter too is very enlightening. First of all, there is the history of his cricketing career, which doesn't get bogged down in a dreary list of scores and averages, but bounces along bringing the excitement of the game to life. The mainstay of the book however, is Marcus' struggle with the depressive illness which has had such a major impact on his life and career.
Descriptions of anxiety attacks and those all engulfing black periods that many depressives suffer are described so lucidly that you could be forgiven for believing him to be a professional in that field as well. His descriptions of all aspects of his condition are extremely thought provoking, and served with far more clarity than those from many experts.
The book also throws more light on the appalling behaviour of some areas of the media who did so much to destroy a genuine sporting hero.
Prior to reading this book, I considered Spike Milligan and Anthony Clare's "Depression and how to survive it" as the foremost in it's field. Now I would put "Coming Back to Me" alongside, if not above it.
Tragic!, 01 Oct 2008
My heart goes out to Marcus and his family. He has been to hell and back over the last few years and I really hope that he's over the worst now and can make a full recovery. His honesty comes through in the book as does the loyalty displayed by his wife and family. As a result of reading this book, I will never again dismiss depression as a disease which only weak people suffer from - it can happen to all of us.
I've also learned that the life of a cricketer, travelling the world etc is not the glamour life we tend to think it is.
Once again Marcus, I wish you well and hope you make a complete recovery.
Unlike any sports biog I've ever read, 15 Sep 2008
I've never read a book from a sportsman that actually tells the truth about how hard it can be to be in the spotlight. As well as what happens when you can't handle the pressure. He's brave enough to be able to admit to this, which is something I've never seen before. A great read.
if only I was this good, 07 Sep 2008
Having played in a team which never reached the heights described in this book, and being the worse player in that team, I can fully relate to the bitter sweet joys of cricket. For all you pub players and the like, read it while rain stops play.
Bowled Me Over, 19 Aug 2008
Hilarious and genuinely touching. Hoorah for Simmo! I borrowed a copy from a friend and enjoyed it so much that I've now purchased a copy of my own. Not only so that I can reread it - but to make sure that the author gets his much deserved percentage and to drive sales of this fantastic book. Buy it, read it, laugh loads.
A Straight 6!, 29 Jun 2008
What a wonderful book! Anyone who enjoys cricket should buy this book. The historical references to past players are fantastic but also for those not quite so in love with the game, the references to the sweet shop will have you chuckling away. There are some genuine belly laugh moments too. I loved reading it and I challenge anyone not to enjoy it. Buy it, read it and mourn the loss of picking it up for a quick chapter when it's finished.
A must have, 06 Jun 2008
The best book I have ever read. I have never the same book twice, but I have every intention of reading this again. Just brilliant.
Just extremely funny, 09 May 2008
There is a general rule that I subscribe to with regard to sports books. The better the subject at their given sport the less interesting the read. There are of course exceptions that prove this theory, but gladly this book isn't one of them, due to the fact that Simkins is obviously very average at cricket. The book can broadly be broken into two sections, his time at school growing up and discovering cricket and his time as the secretary/manager of a casual sunday team. I enjoyed the first half, due mainly to brilliantly drawn observation which brought back memories of my own childhood and my own struggles in attempting to break into cricket teams filled with better looking, more talented and better equiped individuals who i both admired and hated in equal measure. The second half is just funny because sunday cricketers are just funny.
At the time i was reading this book my partner was revising for an upcoming job interview and on more than one occasion i was ejected from the room for constant giggling and occasion peels of laughter. I defy anyone with a passing interest in cricket not to laugh out loud when Simkins describes his repeated attempts to bowl at a professional at a Sussex coaching session during his youth.
If you enjoyed Marcus Berkmann's books Rain Men and Zimmer Men i would direct you to this because the tone and style is very similar and equally as enjoyable.
A beefy tale from Sir Ian, 22 Dec 2007
The updated tale of Sir Ian Botham OBE, England's beefiest ever cricketer, is a good read - an open, revealing and well written "autobiography". Unlike Botham's previous foray into the genre, "Don't tell Kath", no ghost is credited - the publishers say only that Botham had "editorial assistance"- but it is difficult to believe that there was one skilled writer who had a firmly guiding hand on the text. Whoever that was has done an excellent job.
In 1983 Botham was having a lean spell and some in the media were calling for him to be dropped. At a press conference England captain Bob Willis responded to these calls by asking "Which two players do you gentlemen suggest we should bring in to replace him?" This sums up the unique feature of Botham's game - he was one of the few international cricketers who could have been chosen either as a specialist batsman or as a specialist bowler - but as an all-rounder he was irreplaceable. His fame and his devil-may-care personality always made Botham a target and anyone who thinks that the "feral media" is a modern phenomenon should turn to Both's accounts of how he was first pursued by them more than twenty years ago. True he brought some of the problems on himself - a fact that he honestly acknowledges - but he was certainly hounded and shabbily treated at times.
Writing about his long stint as a Sky commentator Sir Ian says "I'm simply stating things as I see them" - and that neatly describes the whole book. There are heroes (Viv Richards, John Arlott and his long-suffering wife Kath...) and villains (Ian Chappell, Imran Khan, Ted Dexter, Peter Roebuck...) and Both is not a forgiving man when aggrieved. But he is passionately loyal to his friends and his work for Leukaemia research reveals that deep down his heart is perhaps his beefiest organ of all.
Botham is perceptive on some of the ills of modern cricket - and especially England cricket. Here he is on England in Australia for example:
"We looked like schoolboys playing against the world's best, never more so than on that last morning in Adelaide. What was going on in that dressing room? What on earth had been said, so that when the English batsmen came out they scored just 30-odd runs in the whole of the thirty-over morning session? What were they thinking? But it wasn't just in Adelaide. Every single pressure session was lost right through the series. Whenever the pressure was on, the Australians came to the party and the England players stayed at home. I can't think of a single crucial passage of play where we came out ahead. Many of the same players were on the winning side against Australia sixteen months previously, but Australia learned lessons from that and England did not."
Spot on! And it's difficult to disagree with Botham's diagnosis of (one) of the causes of the problems either:
"I counted twenty-five people wearing England shirts out in the middle before the start of one Test - who the hell were they all? As well as the players, the coach and the physio, England had a batting coach, a bowling coach, security men, flunkeys of one sort and another, a dietician to tell them what to eat and even a team psych¬ologist to motivate them. Since when did you need a psychologist to play cricket? I never took any notice of those idiots - how many overs have they ever bowled? From the results the team achieved, the psychologist obviously did a great job."
Both is no fool, but like Shane Warne who in some ways he resembles, he can sometimes be a fool to himself. When truly great cricketers like Warne or Botham speak the current crop of players and administrators would do well to listen. But will they? Don't hold your breath!
A man more sinned against tham sinning?, 16 Nov 2007
Graham Gooch apparently once asked Ian Botham who wrote his scripts and that was a question I was not able to shake off throughout this book. The style is so accomplished and measured that it is difficult to believe that the authorial voice is echt Botham.
That caveat aside, this is an always interesting and perceptive insight into the man's life and times; I don't think there is a great deal here which is not already known, but the tone adds a sense of authenticity, suggesting this is the real story.
Like the best heroes, Botham had feet of clay and there are times when he descends into sentimental self-pity; generally, however, the book is positive and forward-looking. As another reviewer has said, there are passages where more detail would have been interesting, but all in all this is a very good value insight into the lot of a genuine modern sporting hero.
Where's the detail?, 04 Nov 2007
A very good Autobiography but only receives 3 stars. Why? It's simple really, for someone who has led such a full life as Botham admits, the book at under 300 pages is actually quite a light (if not enjoyable) read.
Very little is covered in detail and indeed for much of the book, you start reading about an event in his life and before you know it, you are on to the next bit.
Overall, the book resembles much of Botham's life: unable to sit still and everything done in a hurry! A real shame as he is a top man and boy, what he has done for charity...
Stick to cricket, 27 Jul 2007
Modern sportsmen are getting into a bad habit of writing books far too early in their careers. This is a totally unnecessary effort from KP. From the corny cover photo to his self-protestations of intensity it makes for a poor read and lacks insight. At present he just needs to let his runs do the talking.
Pietersen would be a lot more readable if he showed a bit more self awareness. His ill-informed views on the South Africa quota system make him sound ridiculously naive and lack any credibility. It is easy to see why his media quotes have regularly made him appear more obtuse than he really is.
My advice is stick to batting old son and keep that trap shut.
Fascinating insight into amazing character, 15 Jan 2007
I am writing this as KP enters the dark night of the soul. 5-0 whitewash and a broken rib from gentle pace Glenn McGrath. World cup prospects threatened.
Yet this book shows that one thing Kevin Pietersen is not bothered about is adversity. He will be back.
The book obviously stops before this Winter's Ashes debacle, but the character of the man is all there. His fiercely competitive, sporting childhood; his fastidious approach; his unnerving determination and confidence and his hard loyalty to friends.
KP is far more interesting than the flambouyant hairstyle and extravagant jewellery. He is a sporting obsessive. He clearly sees his own destiny and is utterly, utterly committed to achieving it.
This book charts the nature of this drive. When the quota system designed to re-integrate South African cricket meant that the young KP, then a promising off-spinner who batted, was dropped by Natal, he showed no hesitation. He pursued a career in England, using the fact of his mother's English birth to secure a non-overseas player berth at Notts.
He was a run machine, easily topping the county averages and working well with Clive Rice, the SA legend who was coach of the team.
But KP bears grudges and takes sides.
On no less then three occassions in this book, he derides little known coaches who failed to nurture his talent, or hindered him, and laughs at the fact that they claim him as 'one of theirs.' He also still takes exception at the fact that he felt short changed during his barman stint while at an English club team! The guy must have millions by now, but still, you cross KP, you stay on the black-list.
When Notts and Rice parted company, simmering trouble with Pietersen exploded and the man who left behind South Africa was not going to let Notts get in the way. Soon he was at Hampshire.
The determination, the apparent lack of a 'live and let live' attitude and his reliance on a select group of friends and supporters all combine to produce someone utterly committed to cricket. There's none of the 'what the hell' blokey-ness of Andrew Flintoff here. Just hard obsession. Frankly he's terrifying. Glad he's on our side.
I liked and admired Kevin Pietersen after reading this book. It is no co-incidence that of the entire England team only Pietersen emerged from the Ashes disaster with his reputation enhanced. If you want to understand how a really successful sportsman thinks, read this book. Yes it has obvious padding from his mates, chipping in with their thoughts on the great KP, and some might think it thin as his test career as only just got going, but the psychological insight in this work, whether it's supposed to be there or not, lifts this book right out of the normal sports biography.
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Customer Reviews
Absolutely superb, 04 Nov 2008
This book is an absolutely incredible, insightful and engaging book. As somebody who has struggled with anxiety and depression recently, this book has been the focus point that has changed my way of thinking about my illness around. It is an extremely good read, which I recommend for anybody suffering with mental illness at the moment. As for the cricket, it is engaging without being tied down in numbers. A really great read. And to Marcus - I really hope everything gets sorted, and thank you for helping me.
A cricketing hero bares his soul, 16 Oct 2008
I have just finished reading this excellent autobiography. As a lifelong Somerset and England fan I really enjoyed reliving lots of the cricketing memories with Marcus, but it was his account of the ups and downs of his cricketing life and in particular his battle will depressive illness which will leave a lasting impression.
His detailed accounts of his low points were painful to read and his insights into how his views of depression and burnout changed when he experienced them himself were fascinating. The main message I want to give is that Marcus was always a hero of mine with bat in hand, but now he's a true hero as he has hopefully opened up the eyes of hundreds and thousands of readers about the realities of depressive illness and that it doesn't just affect wimps ... it can strike anyone no matter how big and tough they may be.
The writing style was incredibly easy to read and the book was really gripping in places. It's also bang up to date including Marcus's views of the next chapter of English cricket with Kevin Pietersen at the helm.
Well done Marcus and very best wishes for your continued recovery.
The best, and possibly the most important sports biography ever written, 10 Oct 2008
Marcus Trescothick has written a truly amazing book here. Unlike many sports biographies which are stodgy and difficult, "Coming Back to Me" reads easily, almost like a gripping novel. The writing style draws you into a very personal dialog with the writer and before long you almost feel as if you are in conversation with him.
The subject matter too is very enlightening. First of all, there is the history of his cricketing career, which doesn't get bogged down in a dreary list of scores and averages, but bounces along bringing the excitement of the game to life. The mainstay of the book however, is Marcus' struggle with the depressive illness which has had such a major impact on his life and career.
Descriptions of anxiety attacks and those all engulfing black periods that many depressives suffer are described so lucidly that you could be forgiven for believing him to be a professional in that field as well. His descriptions of all aspects of his condition are extremely thought provoking, and served with far more clarity than those from many experts.
The book also throws more light on the appalling behaviour of some areas of the media who did so much to destroy a genuine sporting hero.
Prior to reading this book, I considered Spike Milligan and Anthony Clare's "Depression and how to survive it" as the foremost in it's field. Now I would put "Coming Back to Me" alongside, if not above it.
Tragic!, 01 Oct 2008
My heart goes out to Marcus and his family. He has been to hell and back over the last few years and I really hope that he's over the worst now and can make a full recovery. His honesty comes through in the book as does the loyalty displayed by his wife and family. As a result of reading this book, I will never again dismiss depression as a disease which only weak people suffer from - it can happen to all of us.
I've also learned that the life of a cricketer, travelling the world etc is not the glamour life we tend to think it is.
Once again Marcus, I wish you well and hope you make a complete recovery.
Unlike any sports biog I've ever read, 15 Sep 2008
I've never read a book from a sportsman that actually tells the truth about how hard it can be to be in the spotlight. As well as what happens when you can't handle the pressure. He's brave enough to be able to admit to this, which is something I've never seen before. A great read.
if only I was this good, 07 Sep 2008
Having played in a team which never reached the heights described in this book, and being the worse player in that team, I can fully relate to the bitter sweet joys of cricket. For all you pub players and the like, read it while rain stops play.
Bowled Me Over, 19 Aug 2008
Hilarious and genuinely touching. Hoorah for Simmo! I borrowed a copy from a friend and enjoyed it so much that I've now purchased a copy of my own. Not only so that I can reread it - but to make sure that the author gets his much deserved percentage and to drive sales of this fantastic book. Buy it, read it, laugh loads.
A Straight 6!, 29 Jun 2008
What a wonderful book! Anyone who enjoys cricket should buy this book. The historical references to past players are fantastic but also for those not quite so in love with the game, the references to the sweet shop will have you chuckling away. There are some genuine belly laugh moments too. I loved reading it and I challenge anyone not to enjoy it. Buy it, read it and mourn the loss of picking it up for a quick chapter when it's finished.
A must have, 06 Jun 2008
The best book I have ever read. I have never the same book twice, but I have every intention of reading this again. Just brilliant.
Just extremely funny, 09 May 2008
There is a general rule that I subscribe to with regard to sports books. The better the subject at their given sport the less interesting the read. There are of course exceptions that prove this theory, but gladly this book isn't one of them, due to the fact that Simkins is obviously very average at cricket. The book can broadly be broken into two sections, his time at school growing up and discovering cricket and his time as the secretary/manager of a casual sunday team. I enjoyed the first half, due mainly to brilliantly drawn observation which brought back memories of my own childhood and my own struggles in attempting to break into cricket teams filled with better looking, more talented and better equiped individuals who i both admired and hated in equal measure. The second half is just funny because sunday cricketers are just funny.
At the time i was reading this book my partner was revising for an upcoming job interview and on more than one occasion i was ejected from the room for constant giggling and occasion peels of laughter. I defy anyone with a passing interest in cricket not to laugh out loud when Simkins describes his repeated attempts to bowl at a professional at a Sussex coaching session during his youth.
If you enjoyed Marcus Berkmann's books Rain Men and Zimmer Men i would direct you to this because the tone and style is very similar and equally as enjoyable.
A beefy tale from Sir Ian, 22 Dec 2007
The updated tale of Sir Ian Botham OBE, England's beefiest ever cricketer, is a good read - an open, revealing and well written "autobiography". Unlike Botham's previous foray into the genre, "Don't tell Kath", no ghost is credited - the publishers say only that Botham had "editorial assistance"- but it is difficult to believe that there was one skilled writer who had a firmly guiding hand on the text. Whoever that was has done an excellent job.
In 1983 Botham was having a lean spell and some in the media were calling for him to be dropped. At a press conference England captain Bob Willis responded to these calls by asking "Which two players do you gentlemen suggest we should bring in to replace him?" This sums up the unique feature of Botham's game - he was one of the few international cricketers who could have been chosen either as a specialist batsman or as a specialist bowler - but as an all-rounder he was irreplaceable. His fame and his devil-may-care personality always made Botham a target and anyone who thinks that the "feral media" is a modern phenomenon should turn to Both's accounts of how he was first pursued by them more than twenty years ago. True he brought some of the problems on himself - a fact that he honestly acknowledges - but he was certainly hounded and shabbily treated at times.
Writing about his long stint as a Sky commentator Sir Ian says "I'm simply stating things as I see them" - and that neatly describes the whole book. There are heroes (Viv Richards, John Arlott and his long-suffering wife Kath...) and villains (Ian Chappell, Imran Khan, Ted Dexter, Peter Roebuck...) and Both is not a forgiving man when aggrieved. But he is passionately loyal to his friends and his work for Leukaemia research reveals that deep down his heart is perhaps his beefiest organ of all.
Botham is perceptive on some of the ills of modern cricket - and especially England cricket. Here he is on England in Australia for example:
"We looked like schoolboys playing against the world's best, never more so than on that last morning in Adelaide. What was going on in that dressing room? What on earth had been said, so that when the English batsmen came out they scored just 30-odd runs in the whole of the thirty-over morning session? What were they thinking? But it wasn't just in Adelaide. Every single pressure session was lost right through the series. Whenever the pressure was on, the Australians came to the party and the England players stayed at home. I can't think of a single crucial passage of play where we came out ahead. Many of the same players were on the winning side against Australia sixteen months previously, but Australia learned lessons from that and England did not."
Spot on! And it's difficult to disagree with Botham's diagnosis of (one) of the causes of the problems either:
"I counted twenty-five people wearing England shirts out in the middle before the start of one Test - who the hell were they all? As well as the players, the coach and the physio, England had a batting coach, a bowling coach, security men, flunkeys of one sort and another, a dietician to tell them what to eat and even a team psych¬ologist to motivate them. Since when did you need a psychologist to play cricket? I never took any notice of those idiots - how many overs have they ever bowled? From the results the team achieved, the psychologist obviously did a great job."
Both is no fool, but like Shane Warne who in some ways he resembles, he can sometimes be a fool to himself. When truly great cricketers like Warne or Botham speak the current crop of players and administrators would do well to listen. But will they? Don't hold your breath!
A man more sinned against tham sinning?, 16 Nov 2007
Graham Gooch apparently once asked Ian Botham who wrote his scripts and that was a question I was not able to shake off throughout this book. The style is so accomplished and measured that it is difficult to believe that the authorial voice is echt Botham.
That caveat aside, this is an always interesting and perceptive insight into the man's life and times; I don't think there is a great deal here which is not already known, but the tone adds a sense of authenticity, suggesting this is the real story.
Like the best heroes, Botham had feet of clay and there are times when he descends into sentimental self-pity; generally, however, the book is positive and forward-looking. As another reviewer has said, there are passages where more detail would have been interesting, but all in all this is a very good value insight into the lot of a genuine modern sporting hero.
Where's the detail?, 04 Nov 2007
A very good Autobiography but only receives 3 stars. Why? It's simple really, for someone who has led such a full life as Botham admits, the book at under 300 pages is actually quite a light (if not enjoyable) read.
Very little is covered in detail and indeed for much of the book, you start reading about an event in his life and before you know it, you are on to the next bit.
Overall, the book resembles much of Botham's life: unable to sit still and everything done in a hurry! A real shame as he is a top man and boy, what he has done for charity...
Stick to cricket, 27 Jul 2007
Modern sportsmen are getting into a bad habit of writing books far too early in their careers. This is a totally unnecessary effort from KP. From the corny cover photo to his self-protestations of intensity it makes for a poor read and lacks insight. At present he just needs to let his runs do the talking.
Pietersen would be a lot more readable if he showed a bit more self awareness. His ill-informed views on the South Africa quota system make him sound ridiculously naive and lack any credibility. It is easy to see why his media quotes have regularly made him appear more obtuse than he really is.
My advice is stick to batting old son and keep that trap shut.
Fascinating insight into amazing character, 15 Jan 2007
I am writing this as KP enters the dark night of the soul. 5-0 whitewash and a broken rib from gentle pace Glenn McGrath. World cup prospects threatened.
Yet this book shows that one thing Kevin Pietersen is not bothered about is adversity. He will be back.
The book obviously stops before this Winter's Ashes debacle, but the character of the man is all there. His fiercely competitive, sporting childhood; his fastidious approach; his unnerving determination and confidence and his hard loyalty to friends.
KP is far more interesting than the flambouyant hairstyle and extravagant jewellery. He is a sporting obsessive. He clearly sees his own destiny and is utterly, utterly committed to achieving it.
This book charts the nature of this drive. When the quota system designed to re-integrate South African cricket meant that the young KP, then a promising off-spinner who batted, was dropped by Natal, he showed no hesitation. He pursued a career in England, using the fact of his mother's English birth to secure a non-overseas player berth at Notts.
He was a run machine, easily topping the county averages and working well with Clive Rice, the SA legend who was coach of the team.
But KP bears grudges and takes sides.
On no less then three occassions in this book, he derides little known coaches who failed to nurture his talent, or hindered him, and laughs at the fact that they claim him as 'one of theirs.' He also still takes exception at the fact that he felt short changed during his barman stint while at an English club team! The guy must have millions by now, but still, you cross KP, you stay on the black-list.
When Notts and Rice parted company, simmering trouble with Pietersen exploded and the man who left behind South Africa was not going to let Notts get in the way. Soon he was at Hampshire.
The determination, the apparent lack of a 'live and let live' attitude and his reliance on a select group of friends and supporters all combine to produce someone utterly committed to cricket. There's none of the 'what the hell' blokey-ness of Andrew Flintoff here. Just hard obsession. Frankly he's terrifying. Glad he's on our side.
I liked and admired Kevin Pietersen after reading this book. It is no co-incidence that of the entire England team only Pietersen emerged from the Ashes disaster with his reputation enhanced. If you want to understand how a really successful sportsman thinks, read this book. Yes it has obvious padding from his mates, chipping in with their thoughts on the great KP, and some might think it thin as his test career as only just got going, but the psychological insight in this work, whether it's supposed to be there or not, lifts this book right out of the normal sports biography.
Better than expected, 17 Sep 2008
OK, first I should admit that I am a big fan of Duncan Fletcher the coach. He took English cricket from its lowest low and brought success unseen since the days of Trueman and Statham. I also admired Fletcher the man. He stood up to the Aussies and the media and wasn't afraid to make himself unpopular as long as he had the support of his team.
However, when the book was serialised in the English press, it seemed that Fletcher was, through this autobiography, acting in a way that was out of character from the man that had been running the English cricket team so skillfully. Players that had sweated blood for him - Hoggard, for example - seemed to be receiving untold criticism. Fletcher was always big on loyalty, but here he seemed to be being disloyal.
Despite this, I figured it must be worth a read, and on the whole, it is. Fletcher's analysing of the game, the way he looks for bite in his players (hence the preference of Jones to Read) and the way he can see how players use angles and the 'low crouch' (which helped him spot the otherwise-ignored potential of Vaughan, Trescothick and Strauss) are great to read if you're a cricket fan, but probably dull if you're not. On the whole, the book is for the cricket purist; if you want a cricket autobiography that entertains beyond the world of cricket then seek out the more feted books of Simon Hughes, Nasser Hussain and Mike Brearley.
The book isn't as full of vitriol as the media clippings suggest. With the curious exception of Matthew Hoggard, Fletcher is loyal to those that had been loyal to him. The book does its fair share of score settling. Geoffrey Boycott, Henry Blofeld, Ian Botham and a handful of others get it with both barrels. But as they'd spent eight years or so making a living out of criticising Fletcher, he has his right of reply.
On the whole, the press it received on its release didn't do Behind the Shades justice. Fletcher is refreshingly honest throughout the autobiography, and for anyone that has followed English cricket over the past decade or so I would recommend this book. Love him or hate him, Fletcher transformed English cricket, and his approach to cricket - gone through in detail here - shows why English sport could do with more of his ilk.
Lot of fuss over a dull and bitter book, 22 Apr 2008
I bought this expecting a lively and revealing read. Instead, it was a protracted exercise in settling old scores. Time and again Fletcher reports, 'and he said afterwards that he realised I had been right all along' or 'I was the best coach he'd ever had'.
For someone who has achieved so much it was embarrassing. All the revelations about Flintoff or Trescothick have been discussed by now so I don't see any reason to buy this.
Bitter and cynical , 10 Mar 2008
I have endless admiration for Duncan Fletcher and his fine achievements for England but this book is myopic, cynical, vengeful rubbish and it saddens me that someone can have such a gifted lifestyle and be intoxicated with the need to gripe about every critical thing anyone ever said about him.
The most honest cricket book around. , 03 Mar 2008
Duncan Fletcher was the man who put the verve back into the England cricket team. Reading his memoirs one is reminded what a dedicated, thorough and disciplined man he was. This book is a joy as it reminds the reader of the many series victories that Mr Fletcher and the boys won. Of course, the book has its serial villains; and the likes of Boycott, Botham and assorted press writers play very much a full role in his downfall. The winners, though, are many throughout; Hussain, Giles, Atherton, men of character and good charm. Fletcher is especially illuminating on the subject of batting 'deep' in the order; with his favourite Ashley Giles appearing with much deserved regularity. Ultimately, we are reminded that Fletcher gelled a team of individuals into a fighting force, a force that eventually won the Ashes. A team that lacked the 'superstars' of old and yet a team that won on its merits. Merits that included discipline and togetherness. This book should be required reading for any who seek to achieve sporting greatness, in whatever field they choose.
Honest, 05 Jan 2008
A few of the newspaper reviews of this book suggested it was little more than a self-pitying whinge.
It turned out, however, to be an interesting take on the inside track of modern international sport and those who run and play it.
Since Duncan Fletcher was the coach of the first England team to win the Ashes for the best part of 20 years and was still the coach when the team rather meekly surrendered them a couple of years later, the book necessarily spends a lot of time discussing those two series. He does, however, map the changes in the game during his lifetime, to interesting and insightful effect.
While Fletcher does, as one might expect of a coach, go into some detail about technical aspects of the game (when and how certain shots should be played and certain deliveries should be bowled), I suspect the most interesting parts of the book for most readers will be those where he shines a light on some of the game's heroes, sung and unsung, both on and off the field. His opinions can be strident and he clearly has something of an axe to grind with some aspects of the administration of cricket and with certain individuals; however, the measured, even restrained, tone adopted makes for an interesting and thought-provoking read.
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Customer Reviews
Absolutely superb, 04 Nov 2008
This book is an absolutely incredible, insightful and engaging book. As somebody who has struggled with anxiety and depression recently, this book has been the focus point that has changed my way of thinking about my illness around. It is an extremely good read, which I recommend for anybody suffering with mental illness at the moment. As for the cricket, it is engaging without being tied down in numbers. A really great read. And to Marcus - I really hope everything gets sorted, and thank you for helping me.
A cricketing hero bares his soul, 16 Oct 2008
I have just finished reading this excellent autobiography. As a lifelong Somerset and England fan I really enjoyed reliving lots of the cricketing memories with Marcus, but it was his account of the ups and downs of his cricketing life and in particular his battle will depressive illness which will leave a lasting impression.
His detailed accounts of his low points were painful to read and his insights into how his views of depression and burnout changed when he experienced them himself were fascinating. The main message I want to give is that Marcus was always a hero of mine with bat in hand, but now he's a true hero as he has hopefully opened up the eyes of hundreds and thousands of readers about the realities of depressive illness and that it doesn't just affect wimps ... it can strike anyone no matter how big and tough they may be.
The writing style was incredibly easy to read and the book was really gripping in places. It's also bang up to date including Marcus's views of the next chapter of English cricket with Kevin Pietersen at the helm.
Well done Marcus and very best wishes for your continued recovery.
The best, and possibly the most important sports biography ever written, 10 Oct 2008
Marcus Trescothick has written a truly amazing book here. Unlike many sports biographies which are stodgy and difficult, "Coming Back to Me" reads easily, almost like a gripping novel. The writing style draws you into a very personal dialog with the writer and before long you almost feel as if you are in conversation with him.
The subject matter too is very enlightening. First of all, there is the history of his cricketing career, which doesn't get bogged down in a dreary list of scores and averages, but bounces along bringing the excitement of the game to life. The mainstay of the book however, is Marcus' struggle with the depressive illness which has had such a major impact on his life and career.
Descriptions of anxiety attacks and those all engulfing black periods that many depressives suffer are described so lucidly that you could be forgiven for believing him to be a professional in that field as well. His descriptions of all aspects of his condition are extremely thought provoking, and served with far more clarity than those from many experts.
The book also throws more light on the appalling behaviour of some areas of the media who did so much to destroy a genuine sporting hero.
Prior to reading this book, I considered Spike Milligan and Anthony Clare's "Depression and how to survive it" as the foremost in it's field. Now I would put "Coming Back to Me" alongside, if not above it.
Tragic!, 01 Oct 2008
My heart goes out to Marcus and his family. He has been to hell and back over the last few years and I really hope that he's over the worst now and can make a full recovery. His honesty comes through in the book as does the loyalty displayed by his wife and family. As a result of reading this book, I will never again dismiss depression as a disease which only weak people suffer from - it can happen to all of us.
I've also learned that the life of a cricketer, travelling the world etc is not the glamour life we tend to think it is.
Once again Marcus, I wish you well and hope you make a complete recovery.
Unlike any sports biog I've ever read, 15 Sep 2008
I've never read a book from a sportsman that actually tells the truth about how hard it can be to be in the spotlight. As well as what happens when you can't handle the pressure. He's brave enough to be able to admit to this, which is something I've never seen before. A great read.
if only I was this good, 07 Sep 2008
Having played in a team which never reached the heights described in this book, and being the worse player in that team, I can fully relate to the bitter sweet joys of cricket. For all you pub players and the like, read it while rain stops play.
Bowled Me Over, 19 Aug 2008
Hilarious and genuinely touching. Hoorah for Simmo! I borrowed a copy from a friend and enjoyed it so much that I've now purchased a copy of my own. Not only so that I can reread it - but to make sure that the author gets his much deserved percentage and to drive sales of this fantastic book. Buy it, read it, laugh loads.
A Straight 6!, 29 Jun 2008
What a wonderful book! Anyone who enjoys cricket should buy this book. The historical references to past players are fantastic but also for those not quite so in love with the game, the references to the sweet shop will have you chuckling away. There are some genuine belly laugh moments too. I loved reading it and I challenge anyone not to enjoy it. Buy it, read it and mourn the loss of picking it up for a quick chapter when it's finished.
A must have, 06 Jun 2008
The best book I have ever read. I have never the same book twice, but I have every intention of reading this again. Just brilliant.
Just extremely funny, 09 May 2008
There is a general rule that I subscribe to with regard to sports books. The better the subject at their given sport the less interesting the read. There are of course exceptions that prove this theory, but gladly this book isn't one of them, due to the fact that Simkins is obviously very average at cricket. The book can broadly be broken into two sections, his time at school growing up and discovering cricket and his time as the secretary/manager of a casual sunday team. I enjoyed the first half, due mainly to brilliantly drawn observation which brought back memories of my own childhood and my own struggles in attempting to break into cricket teams filled with better looking, more talented and better equiped individuals who i both admired and hated in equal measure. The second half is just funny because sunday cricketers are just funny.
At the time i was reading this book my partner was revising for an upcoming job interview and on more than one occasion i was ejected from the room for constant giggling and occasion peels of laughter. I defy anyone with a passing interest in cricket not to laugh out loud when Simkins describes his repeated attempts to bowl at a professional at a Sussex coaching session during his youth.
If you enjoyed Marcus Berkmann's books Rain Men and Zimmer Men i would direct you to this because the tone and style is very similar and equally as enjoyable.
A beefy tale from Sir Ian, 22 Dec 2007
The updated tale of Sir Ian Botham OBE, England's beefiest ever cricketer, is a good read - an open, revealing and well written "autobiography". Unlike Botham's previous foray into the genre, "Don't tell Kath", no ghost is credited - the publishers say only that Botham had "editorial assistance"- but it is difficult to believe that there was one skilled writer who had a firmly guiding hand on the text. Whoever that was has done an excellent job.
In 1983 Botham was having a lean spell and some in the media were calling for him to be dropped. At a press conference England captain Bob Willis responded to these calls by asking "Which two players do you gentlemen suggest we should bring in to replace him?" This sums up the unique feature of Botham's game - he was one of the few international cricketers who could have been chosen either as a specialist batsman or as a specialist bowler - but as an all-rounder he was irreplaceable. His fame and his devil-may-care personality always made Botham a target and anyone who thinks that the "feral media" is a modern phenomenon should turn to Both's accounts of how he was first pursued by them more than twenty years ago. True he brought some of the problems on himself - a fact that he honestly acknowledges - but he was certainly hounded and shabbily treated at times.
Writing about his long stint as a Sky commentator Sir Ian says "I'm simply stating things as I see them" - and that neatly describes the whole book. There are heroes (Viv Richards, John Arlott and his long-suffering wife Kath...) and villains (Ian Chappell, Imran Khan, Ted Dexter, Peter Roebuck...) and Both is not a forgiving man when aggrieved. But he is passionately loyal to his friends and his work for Leukaemia research reveals that deep down his heart is perhaps his beefiest organ of all.
Botham is perceptive on some of the ills of modern cricket - and especially England cricket. Here he is on England in Australia for example:
"We looked like schoolboys playing against the world's best, never more so than on that last morning in Adelaide. What was going on in that dressing room? What on earth had been said, so that when the English batsmen came out they scored just 30-odd runs in the whole of the thirty-over morning session? What were they thinking? But it wasn't just in Adelaide. Every single pressure session was lost right through the series. Whenever the pressure was on, the Australians came to the party and the England players stayed at home. I can't think of a single crucial passage of play where we came out ahead. Many of the same players were on the winning side against Australia sixteen months previously, but Australia learned lessons from that and England did not."
Spot on! And it's difficult to disagree with Botham's diagnosis of (one) of the causes of the problems either:
"I counted twenty-five people wearing England shirts out in the middle before the start of one Test - who the hell were they all? As well as the players, the coach and the physio, England had a batting coach, a bowling coach, security men, flunkeys of one sort and another, a dietician to tell them what to eat and even a team psych¬ologist to motivate them. Since when did you need a psychologist to play cricket? I never took any notice of those idiots - how many overs have they ever bowled? From the results the team achieved, the psychologist obviously did a great job."
Both is no fool, but like Shane Warne who in some ways he resembles, he can sometimes be a fool to himself. When truly great cricketers like Warne or Botham speak the current crop of players and administrators would do well to listen. But will they? Don't hold your breath!
A man more sinned against tham sinning?, 16 Nov 2007
Graham Gooch apparently once asked Ian Botham who wrote his scripts and that was a question I was not able to shake off throughout this book. The style is so accomplished and measured that it is difficult to believe that the authorial voice is echt Botham.
That caveat aside, this is an always interesting and perceptive insight into the man's life and times; I don't think there is a great deal here which is not already known, but the tone adds a sense of authenticity, suggesting this is the real story.
Like the best heroes, Botham had feet of clay and there are times when he descends into sentimental self-pity; generally, however, the book is positive and forward-looking. As another reviewer has said, there are passages where more detail would have been interesting, but all in all this is a very good value insight into the lot of a genuine modern sporting hero.
Where's the detail?, 04 Nov 2007
A very good Autobiography but only receives 3 stars. Why? It's simple really, for someone who has led such a full life as Botham admits, the book at under 300 pages is actually quite a light (if not enjoyable) read.
Very little is covered in detail and indeed for much of the book, you start reading about an event in his life and before you know it, you are on to the next bit.
Overall, the book resembles much of Botham's life: unable to sit still and everything done in a hurry! A real shame as he is a top man and boy, what he has done for charity...
Stick to cricket, 27 Jul 2007
Modern sportsmen are getting into a bad habit of writing books far too early in their careers. This is a totally unnecessary effort from KP. From the corny cover photo to his self-protestations of intensity it makes for a poor read and lacks insight. At present he just needs to let his runs do the talking.
Pietersen would be a lot more readable if he showed a bit more self awareness. His ill-informed views on the South Africa quota system make him sound ridiculously naive and lack any credibility. It is easy to see why his media quotes have regularly made him appear more obtuse than he really is.
My advice is stick to batting old son and keep that trap shut.
Fascinating insight into amazing character, 15 Jan 2007
I am writing this as KP enters the dark night of the soul. 5-0 whitewash and a broken rib from gentle pace Glenn McGrath. World cup prospects threatened.
Yet this book shows that one thing Kevin Pietersen is not bothered about is adversity. He will be back.
The book obviously stops before this Winter's Ashes debacle, but the character of the man is all there. His fiercely competitive, sporting childhood; his fastidious approach; his unnerving determination and confidence and his hard loyalty to friends.
KP is far more interesting than the flambouyant hairstyle and extravagant jewellery. He is a sporting obsessive. He clearly sees his own destiny and is utterly, utterly committed to achieving it.
This book charts the nature of this drive. When the quota system designed to re-integrate South African cricket meant that the young KP, then a promising off-spinner who batted, was dropped by Natal, he showed no hesitation. He pursued a career in England, using the fact of his mother's English birth to secure a non-overseas player berth at Notts.
He was a run machine, easily topping the county averages and working well with Clive Rice, the SA legend who was coach of the team.
But KP bears grudges and takes sides.
On no less then three occassions in this book, he derides little known coaches who failed to nurture his talent, or hindered him, and laughs at the fact that they claim him as 'one of theirs.' He also still takes exception at the fact that he felt short changed during his barman stint while at an English club team! The guy must have millions by now, but still, you cross KP, you stay on the black-list.
When Notts and Rice parted company, simmering trouble with Pietersen exploded and the man who left behind South Africa was not going to let Notts get in the way. Soon he was at Hampshire.
The determination, the apparent lack of a 'live and let live' attitude and his reliance on a select group of friends and supporters all combine to produce someone utterly committed to cricket. There's none of the 'what the hell' blokey-ness of Andrew Flintoff here. Just hard obsession. Frankly he's terrifying. Glad he's on our side.
I liked and admired Kevin Pietersen after reading this book. It is no co-incidence that of the entire England team only Pietersen emerged from the Ashes disaster with his reputation enhanced. If you want to understand how a really successful sportsman thinks, read this book. Yes it has obvious padding from his mates, chipping in with their thoughts on the great KP, and some might think it thin as his test career as only just got going, but the psychological insight in this work, whether it's supposed to be there or not, lifts this book right out of the normal sports biography.
Better than expected, 17 Sep 2008
OK, first I should admit that I am a big fan of Duncan Fletcher the coach. He took English cricket from its lowest low and brought success unseen since the days of Trueman and Statham. I also admired Fletcher the man. He stood up to the Aussies and the media and wasn't afraid to make himself unpopular as long as he had the support of his team.
However, when the book was serialised in the English press, it seemed that Fletcher was, through this autobiography, acting in a way that was out of character from the man that had been running the English cricket team so skillfully. Players that had sweated blood for him - Hoggard, for example - seemed to be receiving untold criticism. Fletcher was always big on loyalty, but here he seemed to be being disloyal.
Despite this, I figured it must be worth a read, and on the whole, it is. Fletcher's analysing of the game, the way he looks for bite in his players (hence the preference of Jones to Read) and the way he can see how players use angles and the 'low crouch' (which helped him spot the otherwise-ignored potential of Vaughan, Trescothick and Strauss) are great to read if you're a cricket fan, but probably dull if you're not. On the whole, the book is for the cricket purist; if you want a cricket autobiography that entertains beyond the world of cricket then seek out the more feted books of Simon Hughes, Nasser Hussain and Mike Brearley.
The book isn't as full of vitriol as the media clippings suggest. With the curious exception of Matthew Hoggard, Fletcher is loyal to those that had been loyal to him. The book does its fair share of score settling. Geoffrey Boycott, Henry Blofeld, Ian Botham and a handful of others get it with both barrels. But as they'd spent eight years or so making a living out of criticising Fletcher, he has his right of reply.
On the whole, the press it received on its release didn't do Behind the Shades justice. Fletcher is refreshingly honest throughout the autobiography, and for anyone that has followed English cricket over the past decade or so I would recommend this book. Love him or hate him, Fletcher transformed English cricket, and his approach to cricket - gone through in detail here - shows why English sport could do with more of his ilk.
Lot of fuss over a dull and bitter book, 22 Apr 2008
I bought this expecting a lively and revealing read. Instead, it was a protracted exercise in settling old scores. Time and again Fletcher reports, 'and he said afterwards that he realised I had been right all along' or 'I was the best coach he'd ever had'.
For someone who has achieved so much it was embarrassing. All the revelations about Flintoff or Trescothick have been discussed by now so I don't see any reason to buy this.
Bitter and cynical , 10 Mar 2008
I have endless admiration for Duncan Fletcher and his fine achievements for England but this book is myopic, cynical, vengeful rubbish and it saddens me that someone can have such a gifted lifestyle and be intoxicated with the need to gripe about every critical thing anyone ever said about him.
The most honest cricket book around. , 03 Mar 2008
Duncan Fletcher was the man who put the verve back into the England cricket team. Reading his memoirs one is reminded what a dedicated, thorough and disciplined man he was. This book is a joy as it reminds the reader of the many series victories that Mr Fletcher and the boys won. Of course, the book has its serial villains; and the likes of Boycott, Botham and assorted press writers play very much a full role in his downfall. The winners, though, are many throughout; Hussain, Giles, Atherton, men of character and good charm. Fletcher is especially illuminating on the subject of batting 'deep' in the order; with his favourite Ashley Giles appearing with much deserved regularity. Ultimately, we are reminded that Fletcher gelled a team of individuals into a fighting force, a force that eventually won the Ashes. A team that lacked the 'superstars' of old and yet a team that won on its merits. Merits that included discipline and togetherness. This book should be required reading for any who seek to achieve sporting greatness, in whatever field they choose.
Honest, 05 Jan 2008
A few of the newspaper reviews of this book suggested it was little more than a self-pitying whinge.
It turned out, however, to be an interesting take on the inside track of modern international sport and those who run and play it.
Since Duncan Fletcher was the coach of the first England team to win the Ashes for the best part of 20 years and was still the coach when the team rather meekly surrendered them a couple of years later, the book necessarily spends a lot of time discussing those two series. He does, however, map the changes in the game during his lifetime, to interesting and insightful effect.
While Fletcher does, as one might expect of a coach, go into some detail about technical aspects of the game (when and how certain shots should be played and certain deliveries should be bowled), I suspect the most interesting parts of the book for most readers will be those where he shines a light on some of the game's heroes, sung and unsung, both on and off the field. His opinions can be strident and he clearly has something of an axe to grind with some aspects of the administration of cricket and with certain individuals; however, the measured, even restrained, tone adopted makes for an interesting and thought-provoking read.
Wot? No index?, 13 Nov 2007
Biographies necessarily stand or fall by the inherent interest of their subjects. Sporting biographies in turn tend to veer between the hagiography and the hatchet job.
Refreshing, therefore, to see a writer prepared to take a balanced but uncompromising look at the conflict between Shane Warne the cricketer and Shane Warne the man.
The book also considers the changes in cricket during Warne's career; the role of the media and of increased TV coverage in particular are analysed with great insight, as are the attendant increasing pressures on players and the growing awareness and importance of sports psychology.
A shame, then, that a publishing house of such standing appears to place little stock by production values; the proof-reading leaves something to be desired and the absence of an index is nigh on unforgivable.
Coupled with the occasionally clumsy expression, these factors prevent this being a five-star book. I await with interest its destiny at the William Hill Sports Book awards.
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Customer Reviews
Absolutely superb, 04 Nov 2008
This book is an absolutely incredible, insightful and engaging book. As somebody who has struggled with anxiety and depression recently, this book has been the focus point that has changed my way of thinking about my illness around. It is an extremely good read, which I recommend for anybody suffering with mental illness at the moment. As for the cricket, it is engaging without being tied down in numbers. A really great read. And to Marcus - I really hope everything gets sorted, and thank you for helping me.
A cricketing hero bares his soul, 16 Oct 2008
I have just finished reading this excellent autobiography. As a lifelong Somerset and England fan I really enjoyed reliving lots of the cricketing memories with Marcus, but it was his account of the ups and downs of his cricketing life and in particular his battle will depressive illness which will leave a lasting impression.
His detailed accounts of his low points were painful to read and his insights into how his views of depression and burnout changed when he experienced them himself were fascinating. The main message I want to give is that Marcus was always a hero of mine with bat in hand, but now he's a true hero as he has hopefully opened up the eyes of hundreds and thousands of readers about the realities of depressive illness and that it doesn't just affect wimps ... it can strike anyone no matter how big and tough they may be.
The writing style was incredibly easy to read and the book was really gripping in places. It's also bang up to date including Marcus's views of the next chapter of English cricket with Kevin Pietersen at the helm.
Well done Marcus and very best wishes for your continued recovery.
The best, and possibly the most important sports biography ever written, 10 Oct 2008
Marcus Trescothick has written a truly amazing book here. Unlike many sports biographies which are stodgy and difficult, "Coming Back to Me" reads easily, almost like a gripping novel. The writing style draws you into a very personal dialog with the writer and before long you almost feel as if you are in conversation with him.
The subject matter too is very enlightening. First of all, there is the history of his cricketing career, which doesn't get bogged down in a dreary list of scores and averages, but bounces along bringing the excitement of the game to life. The mainstay of the book however, is Marcus' struggle with the depressive illness which has had such a major impact on his life and career.
Descriptions of anxiety attacks and those all engulfing black periods that many depressives suffer are described so lucidly that you could be forgiven for believing him to be a professional in that field as well. His descriptions of all aspects of his condition are extremely thought provoking, and served with far more clarity than those from many experts.
The book also throws more light on the appalling behaviour of some areas of the media who did so much to destroy a genuine sporting hero.
Prior to reading this book, I considered Spike Milligan and Anthony Clare's "Depression and how to survive it" as the foremost in it's field. Now I would put "Coming Back to Me" alongside, if not above it.
Tragic!, 01 Oct 2008
My heart goes out to Marcus and his family. He has been to hell and back over the last few years and I really hope that he's over the worst now and can make a full recovery. His honesty comes through in the book as does the loyalty displayed by his wife and family. As a result of reading this book, I will never again dismiss depression as a disease which only weak people suffer from - it can happen to all of us.
I've also learned that the life of a cricketer, travelling the world etc is not the glamour life we tend to think it is.
Once again Marcus, I wish you well and hope you make a complete recovery.
Unlike any sports biog I've ever read, 15 Sep 2008
I've never read a book from a sportsman that actually tells the truth about how hard it can be to be in the spotlight. As well as what happens when you can't handle the pressure. He's brave enough to be able to admit to this, which is something I've never seen before. A great read.
if only I was this good, 07 Sep 2008
Having played in a team which never reached the heights described in this book, and being the worse player in that team, I can fully relate to the bitter sweet joys of cricket. For all you pub players and the like, read it while rain stops play.
Bowled Me Over, 19 Aug 2008
Hilarious and genuinely touching. Hoorah for Simmo! I borrowed a copy from a friend and enjoyed it so much that I've now purchased a copy of my own. Not only so that I can reread it - but to make sure that the author gets his much deserved percentage and to drive sales of this fantastic book. Buy it, read it, laugh loads.
A Straight 6!, 29 Jun 2008
What a wonderful book! Anyone who enjoys cricket should buy this book. The historical references to past players are fantastic but also for those not quite so in love with the game, the references to the sweet shop will have you chuckling away. There are some genuine belly laugh moments too. I loved reading it and I challenge anyone not to enjoy it. Buy it, read it and mourn the loss of picking it up for a quick chapter when it's finished.
A must have, 06 Jun 2008
The best book I have ever read. I have never the same book twice, but I have every intention of reading this again. Just brilliant.
Just extremely funny, 09 May 2008
There is a general rule that I subscribe to with regard to sports books. The better the subject at their given sport the less interesting the read. There are of course exceptions that prove this theory, but gladly this book isn't one of them, due to the fact that Simkins is obviously very average at cricket. The book can broadly be broken into two sections, his time at school growing up and discovering cricket and his time as the secretary/manager of a casual sunday team. I enjoyed the first half, due mainly to brilliantly drawn observation which brought back memories of my own childhood and my own struggles in attempting to break into cricket teams filled with better looking, more talented and better equiped individuals who i both admired and hated in equal measure. The second half is just funny because sunday cricketers are just funny.
At the time i was reading this book my partner was revising for an upcoming job interview and on more than one occasion i was ejected from the room for constant giggling and occasion peels of laughter. I defy anyone with a passing interest in cricket not to laugh out loud when Simkins describes his repeated attempts to bowl at a professional at a Sussex coaching session during his youth.
If you enjoyed Marcus Berkmann's books Rain Men and Zimmer Men i would direct you to this because the tone and style is very similar and equally as enjoyable.
A beefy tale from Sir Ian, 22 Dec 2007
The updated tale of Sir Ian Botham OBE, England's beefiest ever cricketer, is a good read - an open, revealing and well written "autobiography". Unlike Botham's previous foray into the genre, "Don't tell Kath", no ghost is credited - the publishers say only that Botham had "editorial assistance"- but it is difficult to believe that there was one skilled writer who had a firmly guiding hand on the text. Whoever that was has done an excellent job.
In 1983 Botham was having a lean spell and some in the media were calling for him to be dropped. At a press conference England captain Bob Willis responded to these calls by asking "Which two players do you gentlemen suggest we should bring in to replace him?" This sums up the unique feature of Botham's game - he was one of the few international cricketers who could have been chosen either as a specialist batsman or as a specialist bowler - but as an all-rounder he was irreplaceable. His fame and his devil-may-care personality always made Botham a target and anyone who thinks that the "feral media" is a modern phenomenon should turn to Both's accounts of how he was first pursued by them more than twenty years ago. True he brought some of the problems on himself - a fact that he honestly acknowledges - but he was certainly hounded and shabbily treated at times.
Writing about his long stint as a Sky commentator Sir Ian says "I'm simply stating things as I see them" - and that neatly describes the whole book. There are heroes (Viv Richards, John Arlott and his long-suffering wife Kath...) and villains (Ian Chappell, Imran Khan, Ted Dexter, Peter Roebuck...) and Both is not a forgiving man when aggrieved. But he is passionately loyal to his friends and his work for Leukaemia research reveals that deep down his heart is perhaps his beefiest organ of all.
Botham is perceptive on some of the ills of modern cricket - and especially England cricket. Here he is on England in Australia for example:
"We looked like schoolboys playing against the world's best, never more so than on that last morning in Adelaide. What was going on in that dressing room? What on earth had been said, so that when the English batsmen came out they scored just 30-odd runs in the whole of the thirty-over morning session? What were they thinking? But it wasn't just in Adelaide. Every single pressure session was lost right through the series. Whenever the pressure was on, the Australians came to the party and the England players stayed at home. I can't think of a single crucial passage of play where we came out ahead. Many of the same players were on the winning side against Australia sixteen months previously, but Australia learned lessons from that and England did not."
Spot on! And it's difficult to disagree with Botham's diagnosis of (one) of the causes of the problems either:
"I counted twenty-five people wearing England shirts out in the middle before the start of one Test - who the hell were they all? As well as the players, the coach and the physio, England had a batting coach, a bowling coach, security men, flunkeys of one sort and another, a dietician to tell them what to eat and even a team psych¬ologist to motivate them. Since when did you need a psychologist to play cricket? I never took any notice of those idiots - how many overs have they ever bowled? From the results the team achieved, the psychologist obviously did a great job."
Both is no fool, but like Shane Warne who in some ways he resembles, he can sometimes be a fool to himself. When truly great cricketers like | | |