In this compelling and candid autobiography, Beth Mead offers readers much more than just another sports memoir. The book, which has already claimed the Sunday Times Sports Book Awards Autobiography of the Year 2023, delivers a raw and intimate look into the life of one of women's football's most dynamic figures. What sets this autobiography apart is its remarkable timing and depth. Mead wrote the book in the aftermath of winning the 2022 European Championships and being nominated for the Ballon D'Or, capturing the euphoria of England's historic victory while also delving into the challenges that shaped her journey. The narrative is particularly poignant as it spans from her humble beginnings in Hinderwell, North Yorkshire, to becoming the Euro 2022 Golden Boot winner and Player of the Tournament.
This newly updated paperback edition proves especially valuable, as it includes two additional chapters that cover the dramatic turns in Mead's life since the original publication. These new sections detail her devastating ACL injury, which sidelined her for nearly a year and caused her to miss the Women's World Cup. The inclusion of this recent chapter in her career adds a layer of vulnerability and resilience to her story, showing how elite athletes cope with major setbacks. Readers have praised the book's conversational tone, with many noting that it feels like having a personal chat with Mead herself. This accessibility makes her story relatable to fans of all ages while still maintaining the depth needed to address serious topics. The narrative doesn't shy away from difficult subjects, including personal challenges and professional setbacks, making it feel authentic rather than sanitised.
A particular strength of the autobiography is its exploration of the mental aspects of professional sports. Mead openly discusses being dropped from the England squad and receiving devastating family news, providing insight into how elite athletes manage personal struggles while maintaining professional excellence. The book also highlights the positive influence of coaches Jonas Eidevall and Sarina Wiegman on her career development.
Overall, "Lioness" impressively covers extensive ground while remaining engaging throughout. It serves multiple purposes: as an inspiring story for young athletes, a behind-the-scenes look at women's football's rising prominence, and a testament to perseverance through adversity. The inclusion of England's triumphant Euros campaign provides historical context for what many consider a watershed moment in women's sports.
The book's greatest achievement is perhaps its ability to balance celebrating success with honest reflection on the challenges faced by female athletes. Through Mead's story, readers gain insight into the rapid evolution of women's football and the personal sacrifice required to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
"Lioness" is more than just a sports autobiography; it's a documentation of a pivotal moment in women's football history, told through the eyes of one of its most compelling protagonists. Whether you're a football enthusiast or simply interested in stories of personal triumph, Mead's journey offers valuable lessons about resilience, ambition, and the power of perseverance.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 Publisher: Visit Seven Dials
Published: March 14, 2024Price: £10.99 Paperback: 304 pagesISBN-10: 1399611682ISBN-13: 978-1399611688Dimensions: 128 x 197 (mm)
