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Shot and a ghost

James has just written his first book – a diary style account from January 2010 to February 2011 – which provides a fascinating insight into the life and pressures of an international athlete competing in a sport that takes him all over the world.

He writes with candid honesty about the issues and events that affect him, using flashbacks to earlier periods in his life to add further detail. As critical of himself as of others, he talks openly about his close relationship with his father and coach, Malcolm; the devastating death of his mother, Lesley; the importance of his girl-friend Vanessa – herself a former world number one, and his fierce and often acrimonious rivalry with fellow Yorkshireman and former world number one Nick Matthew.

Acclaim for James Willstrop’s book                ‘A Shot and a Ghost’:

“One of the sporting reads of the year.”

Donald McRae, The Guardian

“Willstrop’s candour shines through – an engrossing read”

The Independent’s Book of the Week

” Searingly honest, a vivid account of Willstrop’s journey from introverted Yorkshire eccentric to world No 1″

Simon Briggs, Daily Telegraph

” Willstrop is a very different sort of British sporting hero”

Patrick Kidd, The Times

” There aren’t many sports book that I read and feel the sportsman himself jumps off the pages. A great read”

Matt Pinsent, BBC Sport and former Olympian

” What a great insight into a young champion’s mentality. A true role model for our young”

Tony Smith, Warrington Wolves head coach