This novel delves into the gritty and tumultuous world of professional rugby in Northern England during the late 1950s. Through the eyes of its protagonist, a young coal miner who becomes a star player, the narrative explores themes of ambition, masculinity, and the personal cost of success. Set against a backdrop of working-class struggle, the story reveals the protagonist's complex relationships with teammates, management, and a widowed landlady, offering a raw and unflinching look at the sacrifices made in pursuit of fame and fortune in the sporting world.

The 4085th greatest book of all time