TFG 2018 Holiday Gift Guide: Awesome Football Books For The Inquisitive Fan
Ho ho ho. Football fans who love to read are in for a treat because there have been some amazing reads released over the past couple of years. The following is a list of our favorites, plus some old classics, sure to satiate the bookworm (or would be bookworm) in your life.
We have carefully selected these books because we’ve read and loved them all. Two quick disclaimers: please note that prices are subject to chance and that TFG may receive a small commission from any purchases.
You Negotiate Like a Girl, Amy Trask
Decades before there were female coaches and scouts, former Raiders CEO Amy Trask was making key personnel decisions and attending owners meeting as Al Davis’s most trusted advisor. Trask’s glass shattering experience comes to life in her empowering book, which is full of lessons learned and compelling anecdotes on being the only girl in the room. $16.31 (Amazon)
Football For A Buck: The Crazy Rise and Crazier Demise of the USFL, Jeff Pearlman
Pearlman’s obsession with the USFL and penchant for prolific reporting results in a frolicking tale you have to read to believe. Yes, there’s also plenty on Trump and his role in derailing the USFL. $18.30
The Score Takes Care Of Itself: My Philosophy on Leadership, Bill Walsh
Before Bill Walsh, the legendary coach who changed football forever died in 2007, he gave a series of extensive interviews to best-selling author Steve Jamison. Jamison transformed Walsh’s words into this masterpiece which truly transcends football. $14.45
Belichick: The Making of the Greatest Football Coach of All Time, Ian O’Conner
Speaking of coaching genius, Bill Belichick has done ok for himself. This newly release biography contains over 500 pages on one of the most mysterious yet fascinating (and yes, successful) figures ever involved in sports. A definitive biography and a fun conversation starter for anyone who sees the cover. $18.30
The New Thinking Man’s Guide to Pro Football, Paul Zimmerman
Dr Z, who passed away this year, is largely considered the greatest football writer of all-time. This beautifully written follow-up in 1984 to his 1973 original is chockfull of amazing anecdotes and keen observations about football that remain relevant to this day. It’s so brilliant that we’ll forgive him for not including women in the title. $19.95
Things That Make White People Uncomfortable, Michael Bennett with Dave Zirin
The title says it all. In this powerful, compelling book, the Eagles DE sheds light on the African- American athlete’s tumultuous relationship with powerful institutions. If you don’t think this book if for you, it may be exactly for you. $16.48
Play Big: Lessons in Being Limitless from the First Woman to Coach in the NFL, Jen Welter
In 2015 the Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians made Jen Welter the first female coach in the history of the NFL. Welter’s magnetic personality shined during her training camp internship and long after her time in Arizona. Ever the dynamo, Welter’s words of encouragement and on her own experience jump off the page. $17.10
Slow Getting Up: A Story of NFL Survival from the Bottom of the Pile, Nate Jackson
Former NFL wide receiver Nate Jackson pulls back the curtain on life as a low-on-the totem pole NFL player. In this gripping biography, Jackson shares harrowing details about pain management, brain injury and lack of benefits. Despite the heavy subject matter, Jackson infuses this book with a healthy dose of humor. $15.19
The Art of Smart Football, Chris Brown
Former ESPN analyst Chris Brown, one of the football minds of the modern generation, shares his insights for schemes, trends and new ideas in this compelling read. Even the most hardened x’s and o’s snob is sure to learn something. $9.99
