Product Description
One of the most highly regarded names in racing, Sir Jackie Stewart is the winner of three F1 World Championships and 27 Grand Prix races, and is ranked in the top five drivers of all time. In the 1960s and 1970s, with his black cap, sideburns, and aviator shades, Stewart was an unmistakable icon and his life was one of excitement, tragedy, controversy, and stunning success. On retiring from the circuit, he went on to build an massive international business career. … More >>
#1 by M. D. Fonseca on July 2, 2010 - 7:49 pm
This is a fantastic reading up until the point Jackie retires from F1. It’s fast- paced, honest, revealing. emotional. Like he said, you’ll feel like you’re onboard with Jackie aboard the rocket ship.
Then, after he retires from auto racing for good at the end of the 1973 F1 season, thinks go downhill. I mean, really downhill. All of a sudden, the book becomes a self-indulgent tale, a thing that surprised me, since his humble beginnings ad relative humility.
Than, all Jackie can talk about is how he got to know princes, princess, kings, queens, corporative moguls (whom he thinks are the best men in the world, it seems). Ok Jackie, it’s not everybody that can go to the Mayo Clinic once a year to make a complete check-up. Congratulations, you made it pal, I got it since the moment you were F1 World Champion. You didn’t have to keep reminding the reader all the time.
Everybody in the book (again, mainly the top corporate men and the kings and queens) are either “fabulous”, “tremendous”, “fantastic”, “bright”, “enthusiastic” people. The book almost becomes disgusting, when he keeps talking and talking about hunting birds with the rich men, playing golf with them, etc. At least, he was involved in a lot of charity work.
Rating: 2 / 5
#2 by Gary Milgrom on July 2, 2010 - 8:25 pm
This is simply a great book. I am familiar with Stewart’s excellence as a speaker so it should come as no surprise that he tells great stories in print too. What comes through beyond the details of his life is his committment to integrity and thoughtfulness above all else in human nature. Jackie is as concerned about a gameskeeper in rural Scotland as the Royal person or CEO in his next meeting.
The book is full of wonderful anecdotes about his career but what is truly remarkable are the powerful recollections he brings to each tale. It’s not enough for Jackie to remember the date he drove X or met with Y, he also recalls the weather, what everyone was wearing and what they had for dinner. These memories create a lush background for the storyteller to act upon.
If there is a downside to the book it is Stewart’s need to name everyone associated with even trivial events in his life. I think this is just Jacklie’s way of being inclusive and thanking all, and is at best a small defect in what is otherwise a warm and readable story about an extraordinary life. Highly recommended.
Rating: 5 / 5
#3 by Dean Wigmore on July 2, 2010 - 8:54 pm
I found this in my local book store and was surprised that it has not been released by Amazon yet. Being a formula one fan may make me a bit biased but i can say with sincere honesty that this is the best autobiography i have ever read. For a person to be ridiculed at school for suffering from dyslexia and then going on to become a true ambassador for the sport of f1 and others, Jackie Stewart is a truly remarkable man and i cannot rate this book more highly. A must for anybody’s library.
Rating: 5 / 5
#4 by Michelle Stuart on July 2, 2010 - 10:56 pm
Jackie Stewart’s sense of humor and keen insights as a color commentator for Formula 1 racing have always appealed to me. But I was surprised to learn he is a fine and entertaining writer. This autobiography shares the low and high moments of a fast-paced life, from his roots in Scotland, the early days as a mechanic in a Dumbuck garage to his triumphs against immense odds to become a Formula 1 champion. I was touched by his giving back so much – improving racing safety, helping others afflicted with dyslexia and organizing events to assist noteworthy causes. His adventures on and off the track will surprise you. The book has the warm feel of an armchair adventure told by an open fire – you will be pleased to enjoy his world, and very cranky that your visit is over when you turn the last page.
Rating: 5 / 5
#5 by cactus reader on July 2, 2010 - 11:54 pm
This book takes you back to when men made the decision’s not the computer’s in racing.The views are honest and straight forward which are a hallmark of this wonderful sportsmen.He highlights that in the end it still takes a human touch to achieve your goals.If someone wants to read what the a truly exciting life is like get this book.
Rating: 5 / 5