To coincide with the commencement of the 2009 Bledisloe Cup Series and with the Rugby World Cup just around the corner, Exisle Publishing proudly releases Gregor Paul’s controversial new book Black Obsession. This explosive book examines why it is that the world's greatest Rugby nation continues to fail in their quest for World Cup glory.
Since the first World Cup in 1987, the All Blacks have amassed a winning record that is far superior to any other country. Yet by the time the next World Cup rolls around in 2011, it will be 24 years since the All Blacks have been world champions. How can that be? This very readable book draws some provocative conclusions on why New Zealand no longer produces great leaders and why rugby remains such an important part of the national psyche. Part travel guide, part social history and part self-help manual, it is the ideal book for all those fans who can't help steering conversations towards All Black World Cup failures.
About the Author:
Gregor Paul has been a journalist for more than 12 years and is the author of two best-sellers, Hard Men Fight Back (now out of print) and The Reign of King Henry. Recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading writers on the national game, he has been the Herald on Sunday’s voice of rugby since its inception in 2004 and is also the editor of Rugby World. Born in Scotland, he lives in Auckland with his wife and three children.
Specifications: 234 x 153mm | paperback | 232pp | 16pp photographs
Download 300dpi cover image (459kb)
Also by Gregor Paul: The Reign of King Henry; Hard Men Fight Back
REVIEWS
'This book goes straight to the heart of the issue and offers informed analysis and insight into why the All Blacks fail at world cups. ... This book is a self-help guide to overcoming cup failures and is a must for frustrated fans.' Weekend Herald - Best Tell-All Books of the Past Year (2009)
'A refreshingly intelligent piece of writing; a hard-nosed examination of All Black rugby's flaws ...' Sunday Star-Times
'Paul's writing flows nicely ... intriguing and interesting.' Sunday News 'Book of the Week'
'Enlightening ... inspired ...' The Independent
‘Frustration at 20 years of being let down by the All Blacks at World Cup tournaments has produced one of the best rugby books in years. Gregor Paul’s Black Obsession is not your average sporting book, it’s a well researched, no-holds-barred look at a tournament that has grown from small beginnings to control the frustrated minds of most New Zealanders.’ Wairarapa Times Age
‘There’s something for rugby fans to think about throughout this volume.’ Ashburton Guardian
‘Black Obsession offers timely insight into the All Blacks’ Archilles’ heel as they aspire to 2011 World Cup glory.’ Bookseller & Publisher
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