This remarkably well-preserved volume, complete with its original unclipped dustjacket priced at 10/6d, offers modern readers a fascinating glimpse into the golden age of post-war British football. Published at a pivotal moment in the sport's history, whenfootball was experiencing unprecedented popularity with League attendance reaching its peak of 41.2 million in the 1948-49 season, this book captures the spirit of an era when the beautiful game helped lift the nation's spirits during austerity Britain.
The book's blend of articles, stories, and puzzles creates an engaging snapshot of football culture in 1948. Its pages feature both color and black-and-white photographs of the era's football stars, including likely appearances by [Sir Stanley Matthews, the "Wizard of the Dribble,"who was at the height of his powers during this period.
What makes this edition particularly special is its timing - published in a year when [Britain was still grappling with economic slump and war debts, yet football provided a much-needed source of entertainment and community spirit. The comprehensive coverage of "every aspect of the game" would have been invaluable to young fans eager to learn about tactics, skills, and their football heroes.
The educational value of this volume extends beyond its original purpose. Today, it functions as a significant historical record, providing insights into the teaching and consumption of football among young individuals in the immediate post-war era. The absence of midweek first-division games between September 1948 and April 1949 (except for Boxing Day) reflects how different the football calendar was compared to modern times.
For collectors and football historians, this well-preserved copy with its complete dustjacket is particularly noteworthy. The price of 10/6d (ten shillings and sixpence) remains unclipped, adding to its authenticity and collector's value.
This book represents more than just a sports annual; it's a window into a transformative period in British football history, when the game was helping to rebuild national morale while establishing many of the traditions and structures that would define English football for decades to come.
◾Collector's Value High◾Complete, unclipped dustjacketExcellent condition◾Significant historical period◾Rich photographic contentThis 1948 edition of The Boys Book of Soccer stands as both a valuable collector's item and a fascinating historical document, offering unique insights into football culture during Britain's post-war recovery period.
Now protected with Archival Dust Jacket Sleeve
