Nigel Mansell: My Autobiography

I purchased this book quite a while ago, on sale, and only recently decided to have a look. I admired Mansell as a driver but his personality didn't came into play often, probably as I am not british. But the book, itself, is a reference as how to write an autobiography. Although a bit repetitive here and there, the open explanation of his feelings when dealing with the inners of the "Piranha Club" show that during the 80's and 90's F1 had a true gentleman aboard a Lotus, Williams or Ferrari and, what's more, completely able to have the job fully done. No difference between Nigel and the long remembered Clark, Brabham, Hill, Fangio and many others. A remarkable book, well balanced between personal feelings, technical details, political manouevers and unknown anecdotes. Highly recommended.

Great book, driving legend (0/0 people found this helpful)

Nigel was driving in the days before PR managers and young driver schools. He pushed himself to the limits, and beyond, to get to where he knew he belonged. In to an F1 car. He then pushed some more to get in to a competative F1 car. Personally signed by Colin Chapman and Enzo himself, not a lot of drivers can say that.
I always like Nigels determination so I'm biased to enjoying this book very much. The details and stories of our Nige against the establishment reinforce the lengths he went to in order to succeed. It was a long and difficult battle, certainly not for the feignt hearted. Driving with considerable injuries would not be allowed today but he did so and triumphed.
Conquering F1 then the ovals of America is a feat few can match. There is good reason why people within F1 rate Nigel in the all time 10 ten. He was a great sportsman, lifting the British crowds at Silverstone and genuinely rising to the occasion to produce one of the most memorable finishes in his Williams. F1 now sorely misses personalities such as Mansell. At a time when cars where hugely physical to drive and racing in perhaps the greatest era he showed us all that determination and a hell of a lot of hard work can get you to the top. I have heard that there are fewer Formula 1 champions than Presidents of the United States. Truly an exclusive club. Truly a driving legend. And you don't see moustaches like that anymore.

Nigel as we know him and love him. (0/0 people found this helpful)

I am a fan and have lots of respect for Nigel Mansell. Considering he came from Birmingham "the boy done good" (I also come from Birmingham which is another reason I liked the book). Great stories of teams, managers, drivers and cars and good explanations of what drives him and how he drives. His love and respect for his wife also comes across strongly. NM is tough and a fighter and a big softie on the inside. There is a bit of everything here to delight any motorsport fan.

At last, a truly personal account of a racing career. (5/5 people found this helpful)

An excellent account of a remarkable racing career. Where most race driver biographies tend to be result records with the odd personal comment, this book generously reflects Nigels personal thoughts and values. His relations with team mates and team managers are described very personally and with much emotion. The book als covers more than just the racing (golf, karate) which could be a bad thing. In this book, however, it just adds beautifully to the image the is created of a great driver.
I am really no great fan of Nigel's but after reading this book, my admiration and respect for him has skyrocketed.

Inspirational ! You Won't Be Disappointed (4/4 people found this helpful)

Whether you are a fan of 'Our Nige'or not, after reading this you will have to agree that he more than deserved to win the F1 World Championship in '92.

Nigel Mansell, James Allen

Reader Reviews:

How to write an autobiography 101 (0/0 people found this helpful)

Great book, driving legend (0/0 people found this helpful)

Nigel as we know him and love him. (0/0 people found this helpful)

At last, a truly personal account of a racing career. (5/5 people found this helpful)

Inspirational ! You Won't Be Disappointed (4/4 people found this helpful)

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