Review: The Meaning of Sports by Michael Mandelbaum
Why do people watch sports? And, in particular, why do they watch the sports they do? These are the central concerns in The Meaning of Sports.
Growing Up On the Gridiron by Vicki Mayk, review
The story of Penn player Owen Thomas, who took his own life aged 21, and was later found to have CTE.
The Blind Side, Michael Lewis
The Blind Side traces the development of the left tackle and tells the story of Michael Oher, whose life may just be transformed by his physique.
Not For Long, Robert W Turner
A timely book about the rights of players and what happens to them after their careers are over.
Football’s Fearless Activists by Mike Freeman, review
Journalist Mike Freeman tells the story of anti-racism protests by NFL athletes and the backlash they faced from the NFL, right-wing fans and even the President.
Love, Zac by Reid Forgrave, review
Youth football, concussions and masculinity are examined in this tragic story of a 24-year-old stricken by CTE.
The Science of Football by Will Carroll & Tyler Brooke, review
An overview of how modern football is being transformed by technology, from improved surgical techniques to virtual reality broadcasts.
League of Denial, Mark Fainaru-Wada & Steve Fainaru
One of the most important books about American football today, and one that all contemporary fans should make time for.