1966

The great book on 1966 that needed writing – and Calvin was the perfect author. England's "only" triumphant day is set in the context of social transformation. A panoramic view of a revolutionary decade with English football's finest moment at the heart of the story.

Paul Hayward, Observer

Panoramic and polemic, Calvin tells it like it was when England won the World Cup. Everyone knows the numerals – 1966 – but this wonderful book brings them to life, as a year and a moment in time.

Jonathan Northcroft, Sunday Times

England’s one World Cup victory needed this book. An absorbing account of what 1966 actually meant, beyond the mere number that has formed the legend, by the writer who has covered more aspects of how the English game actually works than any other. Everyone knows about 1966, but this will tell you so much you didn't realize, while necessarily documenting how it influenced change.

Miguel Delaney, Independent

A tremendous accomplishment. Rich, compelling and highly readable; this is an entirely new set of lenses for a year and a tournament that has so often been reduced to being England’s moment of ultimate triumph.

Seb Stafford-Bloor, The Athletic

Plunge yourself into a dream summer, detailed with Michael Calvin's trademark forensic attention to detail. With its larger world perspective as well as its enthralling nuance, 1966 will capture your imagination. An education from start to finish.

Darren Lewis, Daily Mirror