It is rare enough for a book about Carlisle United to be published and rarer still for it to be from a fan's viewpoint. For it then to actually be an entertaining read too, is a bonus.
Neil Nixon has also helped out Derek "who are we playing?" Lacey in the commentary box and shown to have a flair for it. But then, he was with Derek Lacey......
The book is an interesting mix of personal recollections and personal nightmare scenarios !-) From the outset, it contains strong language, which is not entirely out of place in a book about Carlisle United, but does not lend it to be a present for the average 13 year old. Hang on, who am I kidding??
If you have ever stood or sat at Brunton Park on a cold, wet winter's evening, the author knows and conveys how you felt. The joy of winning, the agony of losing. Wembleys, promotion, relegation. The memories and feelings are all there.
There are pithy comments about each person as they are introduced, and these evoke vivid memories of thosee individuals.
Parallels have been drawn with Fever Pitch, a book about supporting some Southern team, from London I believe. My only real negative comments about the book are the plentiful spelling mistakes and the strong language. However, all in all, I think this is an essential read for all Carlisle United fans, and a useful introduction to the joys and despairs of being a Carlisle United fan for anyone considering becoming one!
Email the author, Neil Nixon.
Email from Neil Nixon
Thanks
For the coverage of the book and trailing the signing. We shifted over 50 copies and there were loads more half read and dog-eared brought into the shop which I also signed. Amongst the things I managed to find out from book shop managers are:
1. Singin' the Blues is outselling Harry Potter in Carlisle.
2. It has first month figures that piss on the expected sales for 'local interest' books.
All that and one person gave me a programme from the first game I attended.
I also got to meet Alan Ross's wife and daughter both of whom were touched by the dedication and the things I'd said about my hero.
Enough of this gushing self-satisfied stuff.
What I really wanna say is thanks for the coverage and thanks for the interest. I had a good day because you and the others who've covered the book did your bit to perfection.
Don't let anyone tell you interest in CUFC is at an all time low.
Cheers
PS - Why don't your favourite women include Jennifer Lopez, the rest of the world wants her!
| RIOA Index |
Fans | Email the webmaster |