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A Life Too Short: The Tragedy of Robert Enke
Winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year, the biography of Robert Enke, the international footballer with the world at his feet who took his own life Here, award-winning writer Ronald Reng pieces together the puzzle of his lost friend's life. On November 10, 2009, the German national goalkeeper, Robert Enke, stepped in front of a passing train. He was 32 years old. Viewed from the outside, Enke had it all. He was a professional goalkeeper who had played for a string of Europe's top clubs, including Jose Mourinho's Benfica and Louis Van Gaal's Barcelona, and was destined to be his country's first choice for years to come. But beneath the bright veneer of success lay a darker story. Reng brings into sharp relief the specific demands and fears faced by those who play top-level sport. Heartfelt, but never sentimental, he tells the universal tragedy of a talented man's struggles against his own demons.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2010
122 people are currently reading
3545 people want to read
About the author
Ronald Reng
21 books44 followersRonald Reng is a German sports journalist and author. Of his books, two have been translated to English and both of them have been honored with book awards in the UK.
The Keeper of Dreams, the story of the German non-league goalkeeper Lars Leese who ended up playing for Barnsley Football Club in the Premier League, won the Sports Book of the Year Award in 2004. It was the first foreign book to achieve such praise. Reng's biography of the late German national goalkeeper Robert Enke, A Life too Short: The Tragedy of Robert Enke was voted William Hill Sports Book of the Year in 2011. Reng was the first non-English speaking author in 23 years to win the award.
In Germany, Reng was distinguished seven times in nine years, between 2001 and 2010, with the award for the best sports story of the year by the Association of German Sports Writers. In 2010 he was awarded the Dietrich Oppenberg Media Award "for outstanding journalistic contributions to promote the culture of reading."
The Keeper of Dreams, the story of the German non-league goalkeeper Lars Leese who ended up playing for Barnsley Football Club in the Premier League, won the Sports Book of the Year Award in 2004. It was the first foreign book to achieve such praise. Reng's biography of the late German national goalkeeper Robert Enke, A Life too Short: The Tragedy of Robert Enke was voted William Hill Sports Book of the Year in 2011. Reng was the first non-English speaking author in 23 years to win the award.
In Germany, Reng was distinguished seven times in nine years, between 2001 and 2010, with the award for the best sports story of the year by the Association of German Sports Writers. In 2010 he was awarded the Dietrich Oppenberg Media Award "for outstanding journalistic contributions to promote the culture of reading."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
January 2, 2015
By November 2009, after over a year of living in Germany (with a lifelong soccer fan), I was more or less pretty up-to-date with what was going on in the German soccer world. I certainly knew that Robert Enke was the star goalie for Hannover 96, which is mein Schatz's home team. His pint-sized soccer-obsessed godson in Hannover had even managed to have his photo taken with Enke, which was blown up and proudly hanging over the little one's bed. I also knew that Robert Enke was the leading contender for the number one goalie position for the German national team in the 2010 World Cup.
And so like everyone who heard the news of his suicide on November 10, I was shocked and saddened and just could not understand how someone living in the limelight would be able to hide his terrible suffering from depression from almost everyone he knew.
I guess that's the reason I decided to read Ronald Reng's biography of Robert Enke's life. I was originally skeptical of how in-depth such a biography could go in offering insights, but I soon discovered that the biographer and Robert were friends and were planning together "one day" to write a book about his life. To that end, Robert kept detailed notes, even during his darkest periods. Using these notes and conducting countless interviews, Reng wrote an honest and moving biography in cooperation with Robert's widow, Teresa.
Before reading Ein allzu kurzes Leben, I -- like probably many people -- had only a very vague understanding of what suffering from depression must be like. But Robert's life story makes it crystal clear that the illness is very real-- sometimes appearing unannounced and relentlessly hovering over you like a dark cloud (or following you like a black dog, to use a metaphor described in the book). Robert suffered from two major depressive episodes in his life, which seemed related to uncertainties and difficult times in his career, but it wasn't always so easy to predict -- he was able to grieve the death of his baby daughter from a heart defect just as any parent would, which did not trigger a depressive episode. His depression wasn't something you could logically "figure out" and thereby make it better.
The biography also goes into great detail on the world of German soccer, particularly the unique burdens born by anyone playing goalie. I didn't expect to be so captivated by that aspect of Robert's life, but it fascinated me nonetheless.
In reading his story, you will find yourself cheering him on after he recovers from his first depressive period, and hoping-against-hope that he will manage to break out of the last one. In short, it will break your heart. But you will walk away with a better awareness of what depression looks like and how it manifests itself, even among those who are successful in hiding it from the world.
P.S. It seems the book will also available in English as of October 2011, under the title A Life Too Short: The Story of Robert Enke.
And so like everyone who heard the news of his suicide on November 10, I was shocked and saddened and just could not understand how someone living in the limelight would be able to hide his terrible suffering from depression from almost everyone he knew.
I guess that's the reason I decided to read Ronald Reng's biography of Robert Enke's life. I was originally skeptical of how in-depth such a biography could go in offering insights, but I soon discovered that the biographer and Robert were friends and were planning together "one day" to write a book about his life. To that end, Robert kept detailed notes, even during his darkest periods. Using these notes and conducting countless interviews, Reng wrote an honest and moving biography in cooperation with Robert's widow, Teresa.
Before reading Ein allzu kurzes Leben, I -- like probably many people -- had only a very vague understanding of what suffering from depression must be like. But Robert's life story makes it crystal clear that the illness is very real-- sometimes appearing unannounced and relentlessly hovering over you like a dark cloud (or following you like a black dog, to use a metaphor described in the book). Robert suffered from two major depressive episodes in his life, which seemed related to uncertainties and difficult times in his career, but it wasn't always so easy to predict -- he was able to grieve the death of his baby daughter from a heart defect just as any parent would, which did not trigger a depressive episode. His depression wasn't something you could logically "figure out" and thereby make it better.
The biography also goes into great detail on the world of German soccer, particularly the unique burdens born by anyone playing goalie. I didn't expect to be so captivated by that aspect of Robert's life, but it fascinated me nonetheless.
In reading his story, you will find yourself cheering him on after he recovers from his first depressive period, and hoping-against-hope that he will manage to break out of the last one. In short, it will break your heart. But you will walk away with a better awareness of what depression looks like and how it manifests itself, even among those who are successful in hiding it from the world.
P.S. It seems the book will also available in English as of October 2011, under the title A Life Too Short: The Story of Robert Enke.
November 5, 2014
A book that's left its mark. Even though you know the ending, you just can't help hoping that there'll be a happy end. Whether you're a football (soccer) fan or not - this is a must-read. Extremely impressing and so unbelievably tragic. Not only does it open your eyes regarding depression, but also regarding how media and society treat those in the public eye and how we tend to turn a blind eye to the true problems of the people around us.
It has also changed the way I regard very certain football individuals. While some of them have risen in my estimation, others have gone down. Way down.
All I can say is that this has been the most memorable book I have ever read. Hands down.
It has also changed the way I regard very certain football individuals. While some of them have risen in my estimation, others have gone down. Way down.
All I can say is that this has been the most memorable book I have ever read. Hands down.
June 27, 2012
A beautiful book, about a short life in sport, but much more about life than sport. Robert Enke committed suicide following a severe bout of depression, but it would be such a shame to let that define him, and this book sets out to define what came before the tragedy.
The author, a journalist and friend of Robert Enke, looks deeply, but never intrusively, into Enke's history to reveal the all too human side that may otherwise be missed when a celebrity takes his or her own life. I certainly never thought much about professional footballers having much other than a bit of a gilded career, but I doubt I'll look at them the same way after reading this. It never crossed my mind that a professional footballer, or any other sportsman for that matter, would look forward to a game with anything other than sheer relish for the performance to come - I'd heard the occasional tale of footballers throwing up with nerves before a big game, but never really believed them. I believe them now. This book takes you into the nerves, the anxiety, the doubt and the self-loathing that can come from the pressure of trying to play at the top level of sport. Despite this, the book isn't depressing or downbeat in itself. On the contrary, the simple and almost sparse prose probes into the life of Robert Enke with a sensitivity and near objectivity that doesn't ask for your sympathy but elicits it nonetheless. Robert and his family come alive through the pages, but never larger than life despite their situation. A hero to many, Robert Enke here becomes writ large only in the depiction of his struggle with depression.
The book carries you toward the end with a rising sense of foreboding as Robert is trapped behind a fog of hopelessness that nobody can reach him through. The author manages to convey just how difficult it is, and how frustrating and terrifying it can be, for those who'd love to give help and support, but become frozen out as the illness takes a grip. Sad, moving and sometimes quite frightening, this is not an easy read but is a very worthwhile one.
The author, a journalist and friend of Robert Enke, looks deeply, but never intrusively, into Enke's history to reveal the all too human side that may otherwise be missed when a celebrity takes his or her own life. I certainly never thought much about professional footballers having much other than a bit of a gilded career, but I doubt I'll look at them the same way after reading this. It never crossed my mind that a professional footballer, or any other sportsman for that matter, would look forward to a game with anything other than sheer relish for the performance to come - I'd heard the occasional tale of footballers throwing up with nerves before a big game, but never really believed them. I believe them now. This book takes you into the nerves, the anxiety, the doubt and the self-loathing that can come from the pressure of trying to play at the top level of sport. Despite this, the book isn't depressing or downbeat in itself. On the contrary, the simple and almost sparse prose probes into the life of Robert Enke with a sensitivity and near objectivity that doesn't ask for your sympathy but elicits it nonetheless. Robert and his family come alive through the pages, but never larger than life despite their situation. A hero to many, Robert Enke here becomes writ large only in the depiction of his struggle with depression.
The book carries you toward the end with a rising sense of foreboding as Robert is trapped behind a fog of hopelessness that nobody can reach him through. The author manages to convey just how difficult it is, and how frustrating and terrifying it can be, for those who'd love to give help and support, but become frozen out as the illness takes a grip. Sad, moving and sometimes quite frightening, this is not an easy read but is a very worthwhile one.
July 1, 2012
A really excellent book and a much needed examination of depression. When Pep Guardiola recently took some time out of the game, morons like Colin Murray were joking about how could he suffer from stress...blah blah blah. Now I realise Murray is a twunt of the highest order but I still felt compelled to text him 'remember Enke and Speed you fool'. There is a total lack of understanding of depression as an illness and this book does a great job of addressing that, the obvious conclusion to the book is so shocking because all along, just like Enke friend's and family you don't really think it could come to that with him choosing to take his life. As someone who has first hand experience of losing a child I found the chapters revolving around his daughter and her battle for life especially moving and more to the point, incredibly accurate. Whether it was the loss of his daughter, whether it was the depression it doesn't matter, the point is the book feels heartfelt and not just a story about someone who died but a true examination of his life. I strongly recommend it.
May 1, 2013
I first saw the news on Soccernet. Robert Enke jumps in front of a train, aged 32. It was a really shocking moment for soccer and for sport. I had heard his name before, but I wasn’t familiar with German football players in general. Of course, time dilutes things. Life had to go on, and I paid no further heed to the tragic news.
That was back in 2009.
Today, I finished reading A Life Too Short – The Tragedy of Robert Enke, written by Enke’s friend Ronald Reng. It was a deeply personal and immensely moving account of a man who, subject to the relentless pressures of competitive sport, struggled against his demons.
Reng unravels in great detail the ups and downs of this good-natured goalkeeper who insists upon the effective over the spectacular. This was a man who – when free from the claws of depression – joked with his understudy at Benfica, gave some of his gloves to his supposed competitors at Tenerifé, and as a national goalkeeper, phoned an unknown nineteen-year-old to help him after unfair public criticism from the coach. He was mostly a genial human being who bucked the German expectation of the fiercely competitive and confrontational goalie that Oliver Kahn and Jens Lehmann had portrayed.
As I approached the end of the book, I felt a quiet dread. This is a story with an ending we all know. The book has gradually developed in me sensitivity to Enke’s predicament. I could feel and relate to his story. I didn’t want the story to end.
Enke’s story may have ended, but it should live on with all of us. Depression is an ailment that affects some of us, sometimes with no clear reason at all. While no one is truly to blame for the second depression that drove him to S, we should learn from this example that while emotions may run high, we – fans, media and coaches alike – must not forget to extend empathy and good spirit to the players on the pitch. They are humans with their own feelings after all.
It was the goalkeeper’s idea to one day write about his story with Ronald Reng. He didn’t have a chance to write it, but I’m sure that he would have wanted his story to lend genuine hope and comfort to those of us who are struggling with our demons and are at times crippled by fear and hopelessness.
It did.
It must have been difficult for Reng, like it must be for those who had the chance to work and interact with him. It must have been even more painful for those- not least his wife Teresa and friends Jorg Neblung and Marco Villa – who always held out the hope that Enke can one day overcome his depression.
Reng’s efforts have helped me appreciate Enke’s tragedy much better and allowed me to see sport in a whole different light. Quoting from Daily Telegraph, I am ‘determined never again to believe the myth of the sporting superman, impervious to criticism or pressure’.
Robert Enke, your spirit lives on to inspire others like you.
This is a book all of us must read.
That was back in 2009.
Today, I finished reading A Life Too Short – The Tragedy of Robert Enke, written by Enke’s friend Ronald Reng. It was a deeply personal and immensely moving account of a man who, subject to the relentless pressures of competitive sport, struggled against his demons.
Reng unravels in great detail the ups and downs of this good-natured goalkeeper who insists upon the effective over the spectacular. This was a man who – when free from the claws of depression – joked with his understudy at Benfica, gave some of his gloves to his supposed competitors at Tenerifé, and as a national goalkeeper, phoned an unknown nineteen-year-old to help him after unfair public criticism from the coach. He was mostly a genial human being who bucked the German expectation of the fiercely competitive and confrontational goalie that Oliver Kahn and Jens Lehmann had portrayed.
As I approached the end of the book, I felt a quiet dread. This is a story with an ending we all know. The book has gradually developed in me sensitivity to Enke’s predicament. I could feel and relate to his story. I didn’t want the story to end.
Enke’s story may have ended, but it should live on with all of us. Depression is an ailment that affects some of us, sometimes with no clear reason at all. While no one is truly to blame for the second depression that drove him to S, we should learn from this example that while emotions may run high, we – fans, media and coaches alike – must not forget to extend empathy and good spirit to the players on the pitch. They are humans with their own feelings after all.
It was the goalkeeper’s idea to one day write about his story with Ronald Reng. He didn’t have a chance to write it, but I’m sure that he would have wanted his story to lend genuine hope and comfort to those of us who are struggling with our demons and are at times crippled by fear and hopelessness.
It did.
It must have been difficult for Reng, like it must be for those who had the chance to work and interact with him. It must have been even more painful for those- not least his wife Teresa and friends Jorg Neblung and Marco Villa – who always held out the hope that Enke can one day overcome his depression.
Reng’s efforts have helped me appreciate Enke’s tragedy much better and allowed me to see sport in a whole different light. Quoting from Daily Telegraph, I am ‘determined never again to believe the myth of the sporting superman, impervious to criticism or pressure’.
Robert Enke, your spirit lives on to inspire others like you.
This is a book all of us must read.
July 27, 2022
Gdybym był zawodowym piłkarzem, to oddałbym każde pieniądze, żeby tylko Ronald Reng napisał moją biografię. Ta książka jest tak świetna, tak mocna i poruszająca, napisana z takim wyczuciem, że nawet SQN nie dało rady jej spartolić, a trzeba krakowskiemu wydawnictwu przyznać, że bardzo się starało, żeby ją czytelnikowi obrzydzić, do czego jeszcze wrócę.
Rengowi udała się rzecz bardzo trudna, spisał niezwykle smutną historię bez grama ckliwości, bez żerowania na uczuciach czytelnika i możliwe bezstronnie, przy czym stworzył dzieło wielowymiarowe: pokazującego Roberta Enke jako człowieka i sportowca, na równi traktując oba tematy, dlatego nie będzie to książka dla każdego, bo wiele tu opowieści z piłkarskiej szatni. Reng pokazuje świat zawodowców jako miejsce gdzie nie łatwo się dostać i jeszcze trudniej utrzymać, gdzie jeden błąd może kosztować koniec kariery i ostry sportowy zjazd, a brak empatii i współczucia to najbardziej pożądane cechy i wreszcie miejsce, gdzie przyjaźń, wbrew temu co pokazują media, jest zjawiskiem rzadkim jak śnieg w lipcu. Książka bardzo ciężka ale też świetnie napisana, wciągająca i prawdziwa.
Wracając do wydawnictwa SQN... Jak można w 2020 roku wydać książkę na papierze toaletowym i jeszcze użyć czcionki w rozmiarze w najlepszym wypadku wziętym z wydania kieszonkowego (jeśli słabo widzicie uzbrójcie się w lupę) do tego żałując na korekcie... ehhh Dodam tylko, że poprzednią książkę Renga też próbowali uwalić wydając ją pod absurdalnym tytułem: "Bundesliga. Niezwykła opowieść o niemieckim futbolu" a była to po prostu biografia Heinza Hohera... Dramat.
Rengowi udała się rzecz bardzo trudna, spisał niezwykle smutną historię bez grama ckliwości, bez żerowania na uczuciach czytelnika i możliwe bezstronnie, przy czym stworzył dzieło wielowymiarowe: pokazującego Roberta Enke jako człowieka i sportowca, na równi traktując oba tematy, dlatego nie będzie to książka dla każdego, bo wiele tu opowieści z piłkarskiej szatni. Reng pokazuje świat zawodowców jako miejsce gdzie nie łatwo się dostać i jeszcze trudniej utrzymać, gdzie jeden błąd może kosztować koniec kariery i ostry sportowy zjazd, a brak empatii i współczucia to najbardziej pożądane cechy i wreszcie miejsce, gdzie przyjaźń, wbrew temu co pokazują media, jest zjawiskiem rzadkim jak śnieg w lipcu. Książka bardzo ciężka ale też świetnie napisana, wciągająca i prawdziwa.
Wracając do wydawnictwa SQN... Jak można w 2020 roku wydać książkę na papierze toaletowym i jeszcze użyć czcionki w rozmiarze w najlepszym wypadku wziętym z wydania kieszonkowego (jeśli słabo widzicie uzbrójcie się w lupę) do tego żałując na korekcie... ehhh Dodam tylko, że poprzednią książkę Renga też próbowali uwalić wydając ją pod absurdalnym tytułem: "Bundesliga. Niezwykła opowieść o niemieckim futbolu" a była to po prostu biografia Heinza Hohera... Dramat.
June 27, 2013
Because I have an incredibly short attention span, there are very few books I would describe as 'un-put-down-able.' This book was un-put-down-able. Despite the heart-wrenching subject matter, I read the first 100 pages, stopped for a cup of tea, read another 150, stopped for a sandwich, and then finished it. I lost a whole afternoon and a solid chunk of the evening to this book, but I didn't remotely care, because I felt like what I was reading was incredibly important, and I was right. There are many great football books, but few if any change the way you view life. This one does.
I've seen it mentioned already in a few reviews here, but it bears repeating; even though you know how this story ends, you will it to be different, you really really want Robert Enke to overcome his problems, and at times, thanks to the skill of writer Ronald Reng, you really do believe he might. The story of Enke is grimly fascinating enough that any competent writer could make a very good book out of it, but Reng is so good at telling the tale that it goes far beyond that. He has done so much research, weaves in so many different viewpoints from so many different characters, and takes us into so many conversations we would never ordinarily hear, that at times it reads like a novel rather than a biography. This could cheapen the book, but it doesn't, it just makes it easier to digest the horrible plot. It never feels like Reng is invading the privacy of Enke's family or friends either; it certainly helps that he himself was a friend of Enke, and that they were planning on writing his autobiography together, but the author's sensitive use of quotes from Enke's own diary is laudable.
I've alluded to this earlier, but this is a football book that changes your outlook on the world. It gives you a main character who is hugely relatable, and offers such a powerful insight into the bleakness of his depression riddled mind, such a vivid portrayal of the catastrophic effort this illness had on him, that you'll never view anyone with the condition in the same way again. You'll also think twice before jeering a struggling player from the safety of the crowd, or questioning a player's commitment to a club.
This is the best football book I've ever read, and, though it seems inappropriate to call it this, one of my persona favourite books I've ever read. I can't recommend this enough.
I've seen it mentioned already in a few reviews here, but it bears repeating; even though you know how this story ends, you will it to be different, you really really want Robert Enke to overcome his problems, and at times, thanks to the skill of writer Ronald Reng, you really do believe he might. The story of Enke is grimly fascinating enough that any competent writer could make a very good book out of it, but Reng is so good at telling the tale that it goes far beyond that. He has done so much research, weaves in so many different viewpoints from so many different characters, and takes us into so many conversations we would never ordinarily hear, that at times it reads like a novel rather than a biography. This could cheapen the book, but it doesn't, it just makes it easier to digest the horrible plot. It never feels like Reng is invading the privacy of Enke's family or friends either; it certainly helps that he himself was a friend of Enke, and that they were planning on writing his autobiography together, but the author's sensitive use of quotes from Enke's own diary is laudable.
I've alluded to this earlier, but this is a football book that changes your outlook on the world. It gives you a main character who is hugely relatable, and offers such a powerful insight into the bleakness of his depression riddled mind, such a vivid portrayal of the catastrophic effort this illness had on him, that you'll never view anyone with the condition in the same way again. You'll also think twice before jeering a struggling player from the safety of the crowd, or questioning a player's commitment to a club.
This is the best football book I've ever read, and, though it seems inappropriate to call it this, one of my persona favourite books I've ever read. I can't recommend this enough.
October 7, 2010
Just read it. It's well written, it takes you by the hand and slowly, slowly introduces you to the dark sides of a depressed mind. It's very tough at times - it's been for me, at least - but it also helped me understand. There are so many moments, situations I remember and now see them from another angle. At the same time, my general idea of Robert (and many of those close to him/not close to him) hasn't changed a bit. Meaning I still like/adore those I liked/adored before and I still despise those I despised before. Also, this gives a detailed glimpse into the world of professional football.
A very good book. I'll reread it at a later point in my life, that much I already know.
A very good book. I'll reread it at a later point in my life, that much I already know.
February 11, 2014
As hard-hitting a sports book as you could ever expect to find. Those who know the tragic story of Robert Enke would obviously know that this book was never going to be an uplifting affair, however I was still left unprepared for the final couple of chapters. Excellently written, you feel you want to share Robert's pain and tell him that it'll all be ok, only to know that the outcome is inevitable. A real insight into the suffering that those with mental illnesses have and highlights how the world of sport can sometimes be a harsh and unforgiving place. A top book!
May 13, 2012
A deeply moving insight into the mind of severely depressive footballer. Having suffered from depression for 12 years some parts really struck a chord with me. A must read whether you suffer from depression or not. Even if you don't like football, read it. Depression needs to be understood and this book can only help it to be better understood by those who do not understand what it is like for the sufferer.
A talented goalkeeper, a life too short.
A talented goalkeeper, a life too short.
August 1, 2023
Easily one of the most tragic, powerful, moving and insightful books I’ve ever read. Not just when it comes to learning more about top-level sport, but also revealing the anxieties and pressures that can come with it.
Just like the rest of us, athletes aren’t immune to mental health struggles. We’re all guilty of thinking they’re superhuman, with an iron will and determination that can’t be breached. But that’s wrong. At the end of the day, they’re normal people too. And when you realise how much stress they’re potentially under - exacerbated by online abuse and the scrutiny of the 24/7 media circus - you can see how that could get on top of anyone, even if their life seems perfect from the outside.
I feel like I now understand depression a bit more, and appreciate the fact that it’s an illness which doesn’t discriminate - no matter where you are in life. If I’ve taken anything from this book, it’s that as a man, it’s more important than ever that we talk to one another - whether that’s mates or our family - about how we’re feeling, instead of burying it deep down inside until it’s too late. And I’ll try and take that onboard moving forward.
While Robert Enke’s story is an upsetting one, it’s one that everyone should read - whether you’re a football fan or not. You’ll definitely look at a lot of sports people in a different light afterwards, that’s for sure.
Just like the rest of us, athletes aren’t immune to mental health struggles. We’re all guilty of thinking they’re superhuman, with an iron will and determination that can’t be breached. But that’s wrong. At the end of the day, they’re normal people too. And when you realise how much stress they’re potentially under - exacerbated by online abuse and the scrutiny of the 24/7 media circus - you can see how that could get on top of anyone, even if their life seems perfect from the outside.
I feel like I now understand depression a bit more, and appreciate the fact that it’s an illness which doesn’t discriminate - no matter where you are in life. If I’ve taken anything from this book, it’s that as a man, it’s more important than ever that we talk to one another - whether that’s mates or our family - about how we’re feeling, instead of burying it deep down inside until it’s too late. And I’ll try and take that onboard moving forward.
While Robert Enke’s story is an upsetting one, it’s one that everyone should read - whether you’re a football fan or not. You’ll definitely look at a lot of sports people in a different light afterwards, that’s for sure.
August 22, 2020
I've read quite a few autobiographies, but this one is by far the most important one to exist. The book is more than just a story of a footballers career and life, it's also an in depth story of the mind by someone struggling with depression. Robert Enke was a man living his dream, a few months shy from playing in the World cup and just having a daughter when he decided to commit suicide. For anyone outside his inner circle it didn't make sense. After reading this book, however, it tragically does. When I put down the book I felt a greater understanding to people affected by this disease, and just how insidious it really is. It made me think, and touched me in a lot of ways. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.
May 4, 2012
I'm not a big follower of German football, so I first heard about goalkeeper Robert Enke when I read news of his suicide. This biography had been in the planning before the truth of his underlying depression became apparent with that tragic moment. I thought the tone of this book was fantastically well pitched as a very informative tale of the effects of depression on one individual and his family. But he was also a remarkable footballer and his life and career are also recounted here too. It is interesting to see the stresses and scrutiny footballers are put under from the point of view of the player for a change. It is amazing how many names in modern football crossed paths with Robert Enke, from Mourinho to Pierre van Hooijdonk to Howard Webb. I never knew about his time with Barcelona or the German national side either. This is a book which will appeal to people interested in football, but also maybe lets people who wouldn't normally read about the illness of depression to understand it better, which has got to be a good thing.
August 22, 2018
“It would be too much to hope that the illness will be better understood all of a sudden, but perhaps this book will do something to help depressives find more sympathy and understanding” Ronald Reng.
I sure hope so Mr Reng.
It took me a long time to be able to read this book. I have always followed European football and to this date I could still remember sitting at my computer when the news of Mr Enke death came thru the internet. Sad that such a promising life had to end at the hands of this brutal illness.
Robert left a void for his family and friends. Teresa, Marco and Jörg were invaluable in being there for him tru it all.
Even though a very sad story it is one of the best books I have read in a long time.
Hopefully as I said at the beginning it would help the world to change the way we view depression and mental illness for the better.
I sure hope so Mr Reng.
It took me a long time to be able to read this book. I have always followed European football and to this date I could still remember sitting at my computer when the news of Mr Enke death came thru the internet. Sad that such a promising life had to end at the hands of this brutal illness.
Robert left a void for his family and friends. Teresa, Marco and Jörg were invaluable in being there for him tru it all.
Even though a very sad story it is one of the best books I have read in a long time.
Hopefully as I said at the beginning it would help the world to change the way we view depression and mental illness for the better.
January 22, 2017
This is my first book I have read on Depression and to what extent can it consume a person,in this case Robert Enke,regarded to be the no 1 goalkeeper of Germany at a point of time.It overwhelming and heart wrenching to know how difficult is it to lead a life suffering from Depression.One of those books which leaves you in tears and without words.
I still hope that depression should be accepted and not frowned upon,so that we can help people come out of it.Acceptance and Empathy shall make their lives much better.It still shudders me to think what Robert went through and many people around us go through without an inkling of it to people around them.
I still hope that depression should be accepted and not frowned upon,so that we can help people come out of it.Acceptance and Empathy shall make their lives much better.It still shudders me to think what Robert went through and many people around us go through without an inkling of it to people around them.
November 10, 2012
Much more than another football book, this is really a brilliant, moving examination of depression in a man who happened to be a goalkeeper. In fact, the descriptions of the nature and effects of depression, particularly in chapter 12 and the final quarter of the book, are better than those in texts specifically for coaching or learning about depression.
February 11, 2020
Deep insight into elite goalkeeping and the sorrow of depression. This book will leave a lifelong impression on me and is a must for everyone whether you're a football fan or not.
June 18, 2017
Kippevel bij 30 graden! Deze stond al zeer lang op mijn verlanglijst. Was een tip van Filip Joos in extra time. Om één of andere reden was deze niet te vinden in de bibliotheek. Toevallig zien staan 2de hands voor een kleine prijs. Wat een verhaal. Echt om ondersteboven van te zijn. Aangezien ik ook jaren keeper ben geweest, lag het me misschien nog iets nader maar die hoofdstukken over zijn dochtertje, de zwarte hond en dan dat laatste. Echt zo pakkend. Van het meest ontroerende dat ik ooit heb gelezen. Grote bewondering voor Teresa (zijn vrouw). Hulde aan de auteur ook. Met grote kunde en nog meer respect geschreven. Aanrader voor iedereen die van ver of dicht in contact komt met depressie.
February 26, 2023
Moja subiektywna ocena.
Nie jest to biografia, nie jest to typowa książka sportowa. Postać Roberta Enke była i jest mi znana. Uważałem go za bardzo dobrego bramkarza niemieckiego, początku XXI wieku.
Enke miał wszystko. Miał talent, miał szczęście, miał kochającą żonę, wspaniałych przyjaciół, pieniądze, popularność. Niestety miał jeszcze jedną rzecz - depresję. Choroba ta doprowadziła go do podjęcia decyzji, która na zawsze zmieniła świat sportu. Jak się okazuję przed chorobą jest trudno uciec, nie ma na nią skutecznego lekarstwa.
Inna sprawa, że Robert nie chciał przyjąć pomocy ani od małżonki ani od przyjaciela ani od lekarzy. Bał się jak zareaguje na jego chorobę opinia publiczna. Książka otwiera oczy. Nawet jeśli nie jesteś kibicem piłkarskim warto sięgnąć po ten tytuł.
Nie jest to biografia, nie jest to typowa książka sportowa. Postać Roberta Enke była i jest mi znana. Uważałem go za bardzo dobrego bramkarza niemieckiego, początku XXI wieku.
Enke miał wszystko. Miał talent, miał szczęście, miał kochającą żonę, wspaniałych przyjaciół, pieniądze, popularność. Niestety miał jeszcze jedną rzecz - depresję. Choroba ta doprowadziła go do podjęcia decyzji, która na zawsze zmieniła świat sportu. Jak się okazuję przed chorobą jest trudno uciec, nie ma na nią skutecznego lekarstwa.
Inna sprawa, że Robert nie chciał przyjąć pomocy ani od małżonki ani od przyjaciela ani od lekarzy. Bał się jak zareaguje na jego chorobę opinia publiczna. Książka otwiera oczy. Nawet jeśli nie jesteś kibicem piłkarskim warto sięgnąć po ten tytuł.
May 1, 2024
Going into this I didn't know much about Robert Enke's life he was one of many players I took a shine to outside the English game
While scouring waterstones for a book I stumbled across this and was curious as to what happened to him
A life filled with highs and lows Robert overcame all manner of difficulties but depression and anxiety were always seemingly round the corner
A talented professional and when he wasn't consumed by his illness he sounded like an outstanding person.
I suffer from anxiety myself thankfully not to the extent Robert did but its a stark reminder to look after our mental health, reach out to those who need help and seek it when needed
An excellent read but it does weigh heavily on the heart and mind
While scouring waterstones for a book I stumbled across this and was curious as to what happened to him
A life filled with highs and lows Robert overcame all manner of difficulties but depression and anxiety were always seemingly round the corner
A talented professional and when he wasn't consumed by his illness he sounded like an outstanding person.
I suffer from anxiety myself thankfully not to the extent Robert did but its a stark reminder to look after our mental health, reach out to those who need help and seek it when needed
An excellent read but it does weigh heavily on the heart and mind
July 27, 2024
Que murro no estômago!
Que livro tão bem conseguido para uma biografia escrita por um jornalista desportivo.
Conhecendo a história de Enke ao longo dos anos, percebemos como o estigma da doença mental ostracizou o jogador e a sua família, vindo à tona toda a dificuldade do desporto de elite em aceitar este tipo de conjuntura como aceitável.
Acompanhar a sua vida ao longo do livro, à medida que a tensão cresce em direção ao inevitável final, é um contrair de mandíbula constante. Um murro no estômago a cada instante.
O fim não é feliz, sabe-se de antemão.
Não torna a leitura mais fácil. Nem menos necessária.
Que livro tão bem conseguido para uma biografia escrita por um jornalista desportivo.
Conhecendo a história de Enke ao longo dos anos, percebemos como o estigma da doença mental ostracizou o jogador e a sua família, vindo à tona toda a dificuldade do desporto de elite em aceitar este tipo de conjuntura como aceitável.
Acompanhar a sua vida ao longo do livro, à medida que a tensão cresce em direção ao inevitável final, é um contrair de mandíbula constante. Um murro no estômago a cada instante.
O fim não é feliz, sabe-se de antemão.
Não torna a leitura mais fácil. Nem menos necessária.
August 9, 2022
ترجمهی فارسی این کتاب رو از طریق سایت باشگاه د��نشجویان فوتبال
https://www.studentofthegame.club/cat...
که با اجازهی نویسنده و ناشر کتاب ترجمه شده خوندم (درواقع کتاب صوتیش رو شنیدم).
واقعا زیبا بود. چیز زیادی ندارم بگم، در طول کتاب بسیار با شخصیتهاش همراه شدم با خوشحالیشون واقعا ذوق میکردم و با ناراحتیشون غمگین میشدم و انتهای کتاب هم پُر از اشک بودم. این کتاب برای شخص من پر از درک چیزهای جدید بود.
https://www.studentofthegame.club/cat...
که با اجازهی نویسنده و ناشر کتاب ترجمه شده خوندم (درواقع کتاب صوتیش رو شنیدم).
واقعا زیبا بود. چیز زیادی ندارم بگم، در طول کتاب بسیار با شخصیتهاش همراه شدم با خوشحالیشون واقعا ذوق میکردم و با ناراحتیشون غمگین میشدم و انتهای کتاب هم پُر از اشک بودم. این کتاب برای شخص من پر از درک چیزهای جدید بود.
July 21, 2020
Extremely well-written. Do yourself a favor and read this book. You'll discover a new-found appreciation for life, and humans.
November 30, 2022
Najbardziej osobista książka, jaką przeczytałem w życiu.
September 12, 2024
A story so sad of a person who lived for his ideals.
July 18, 2025
Gran obra para entender que,detrás de un futbolista profesional hay una persona que, como todos, puede estar sufriendo. Muy recomendable
September 4, 2025
An incredibly oppressive and heavy book that requires perseverance to get through.
May 27, 2020
Είναι πραγματικά ασύλληπτο πόσο πλούσια είναι η βιβλιογραφία αθλητικού (και δη ποδοσφαιρικού) περιεχόμενου στο εξωτερικό. Έχουν γραφτεί βιβλία κάθε είδους: από αυτοβιογραφίες καταξιωμένων και όχι μόνο αθλητών, μελέτες πάνω σε συγκεκριμένες ομάδες ή γεγονότα που έμειναν στην Ιστορία, ο "μπαξές" έχει πραγματικά απ' όλα. Άλλα είναι κουτσομπολίστικα και εφήμερα, άλλα πιο "ψαγμένα". Δυστυχώς, ελάχιστα από αυτά μεταφράζονται στα ελληνικά. Πρέπει να δοκιμάσεις να διαβάσεις στην ξένη γλώσσα, για να ξεχωρίσεις την ήρα από το στάρι και να ανακαλύψεις πραγματικά «διαμάντια» όπως το "A Life Too Short" ("Robert Enke. Ein allzu kurzes Leben") του Ρόναλντ Ρενγκ.
Ότι είχε γραφτεί βιβλίο για τον Ρόμπερτ Ένκε το γνώριζα - προφανώς το είχε πάρει το μάτι μου σε κάποιο αφιέρωμα στο διαδίκτυο, κάποια 10η Νοεμβρίου. Παρά τα κολακευτικά σχόλια που διάβαζα παντού, όμως, δεν μπορούσα να φανταστώ ότι ένα βιβλίο που πραγματεύεται μία τόσο στενόχωρη ιστορία, θα ήταν τόσο απολαυστικό ανάγνωσμα. Πρόκειται για ένα έργο που υπερβαίνει τα όρια της αθλητικής βιβλιογραφίας, μια και μέσα από την αφήγηση καθημερινών γεγονότων, καταδεικνύει πόσο ύπουλη ασθένεια είναι η κατάθλιψη και σε τι αδιέξοδα μπορεί να οδηγήσει ακόμα και έναν πετυχημένο αθλητή.
Μεγάλο πλεονέκτημα του βιβλίου είναι ότι ο συγγραφέας γνώριζε για την ασθένειά του Ένκε πριν αυτός αποφασίσει να δώσει τέλος στη ζωή του, μια και συνδέονταν με φιλία από τα χρόνια της Μπαρτσελόνα. Ήταν και παραμένει κοντά στην οικογένεια και τους πιο στενούς του φίλους (ένας από αυτούς ήταν και ο γνωστός μας από το σύντομο πέρασμά του από τον Παναθηναϊκό, Μάρκο Βίλα) και έφτασε να έχει πρόσβαση ακόμα και στο προσωπικό του ημερολόγιο.
Καμία έρευνα, βέβαια, όσο πλήρης κι αν είναι, δεν καταλήγει να γίνει ενδιαφέρον ανάγνωσμα, αν αυτός που αναλαμβάνει να τη μετατρέψει σε κείμενο δεν έχει συγγραφικό ταλέντο. Ο Ρενγκ, λοιπόν, συνέθεσε τα κομμάτια του παζλ αριστοτεχνικά και με μία αφήγηση που θυμίζει ντοκιμαντέρ (με μεταγενέστερες κρίσεις των «ηρώων» που πέρασαν από τη ζωή του Ένκε, ιδίως της χήρας του, Τερέζα, να παρεμβάλλονται στην παράθεση των γεγονότων), προσφέρει στο κοινό ένα μνημειώδες βιβλίο.
Η κατάθλιψη δεν έρχεται ως συνέπεια ενός μόνο γεγονότος ούτε είναι απαραίτητα κληρονομική. Στην περίπτωση του Ένκε, δεν μπορεί κανείς να πει με σιγουριά αν έφταιξε το καταστροφικό ντεμπούτο με την Μπαρτσελόνα στη Νοβέλδα ή η σύντομη περιπέτεια στην Κωνσταντινούπολη με τη Φενερμπαχτσέ. Σίγουρα, πάντως, δεν επιδείνωσε την κατάστασή του ο θάνατος της κορούλας του, όπως πιστεύαμε όταν μάθαμε ότι αυτοκτόνησε. Αλλά και πάλι είναι δύσκολο να δεχθείς ότι το άγχος που προκαλεί ένας τραυματισμός που θεωρητικά απειλεί το όνειρό σου να παίξεις στο Μουντιάλ με την εθνική σου ομάδα, μπορεί να σε οδηγήσει σε τέτοιο αδιέξοδο.
Το πιο χρήσιμο μάθημα που μας δίνει αυτό το βιβλίο, είναι ότι αν ποτέ νιώσεις όπως ο Ένκε, δεν πρέπει να φοβηθείς να μιλήσεις για το πρόβλημά σου. Τα χρόνια που μεσολάβησαν από το 2009 έως σήμερα, ο κόσμος ευτυχώς έχει συνειδητοποιήσει ότι δεν είναι ντροπή να πεις παραέξω ότι πάσχεις από κατάθλιψη, όπως φοβήθηκε ο Γερμανός τερματοφύλακας. Είναι μία ασθένεια όπως όλες οι άλλες, μία ασθένεια η οποία μπορεί να νικηθεί - όπως την είχε νικήσει κι ο ίδιος την πρώτη φορά που του χτύπησε την πόρτα, το 2003.
Ο Ένκε δεν ήταν Μέσι, Ρονάλντο, Μαραντόνα ή Πελέ, όμως η τραγική ιστορία του είναι τόσο ενδιαφέρουσα, που αξίζει να διαβαστεί απ' όλους τους ποδοσφαιρόφιλους - και ειδικά τους συναδέλφους μου αθλητικούς συντάκτες. Θα τους βοηθήσει να δουν από άλλο πρίσμα το άθλημα και ενδεχομένως να τους κανει πιο επιεικείς στις κρίσεις τους ακόμα και για τις πιο κακές στιγμές των ποδοσφαιριστών στους αγώνες τους.
Ότι είχε γραφτεί βιβλίο για τον Ρόμπερτ Ένκε το γνώριζα - προφανώς το είχε πάρει το μάτι μου σε κάποιο αφιέρωμα στο διαδίκτυο, κάποια 10η Νοεμβρίου. Παρά τα κολακευτικά σχόλια που διάβαζα παντού, όμως, δεν μπορούσα να φανταστώ ότι ένα βιβλίο που πραγματεύεται μία τόσο στενόχωρη ιστορία, θα ήταν τόσο απολαυστικό ανάγνωσμα. Πρόκειται για ένα έργο που υπερβαίνει τα όρια της αθλητικής βιβλιογραφίας, μια και μέσα από την αφήγηση καθημερινών γεγονότων, καταδεικνύει πόσο ύπουλη ασθένεια είναι η κατάθλιψη και σε τι αδιέξοδα μπορεί να οδηγήσει ακόμα και έναν πετυχημένο αθλητή.
Μεγάλο πλεονέκτημα του βιβλίου είναι ότι ο συγγραφέας γνώριζε για την ασθένειά του Ένκε πριν αυτός αποφασίσει να δώσει τέλος στη ζωή του, μια και συνδέονταν με φιλία από τα χρόνια της Μπαρτσελόνα. Ήταν και παραμένει κοντά στην οικογένεια και τους πιο στενούς του φίλους (ένας από αυτούς ήταν και ο γνωστός μας από το σύντομο πέρασμά του από τον Παναθηναϊκό, Μάρκο Βίλα) και έφτασε να έχει πρόσβαση ακόμα και στο προσωπικό του ημερολόγιο.
Καμία έρευνα, βέβαια, όσο πλήρης κι αν είναι, δεν καταλήγει να γίνει ενδιαφέρον ανάγνωσμα, αν αυτός που αναλαμβάνει να τη μετατρέψει σε κείμενο δεν έχει συγγραφικό ταλέντο. Ο Ρενγκ, λοιπόν, συνέθεσε τα κομμάτια του παζλ αριστοτεχνικά και με μία αφήγηση που θυμίζει ντοκιμαντέρ (με μεταγενέστερες κρίσεις των «ηρώων» που πέρασαν από τη ζωή του Ένκε, ιδίως της χήρας του, Τερέζα, να παρεμβάλλονται στην παράθεση των γεγονότων), προσφέρει στο κοινό ένα μνημειώδες βιβλίο.
Η κατάθλιψη δεν έρχεται ως συνέπεια ενός μόνο γεγονότος ούτε είναι απαραίτητα κληρονομική. Στην περίπτωση του Ένκε, δεν μπορεί κανείς να πει με σιγουριά αν έφταιξε το καταστροφικό ντεμπούτο με την Μπαρτσελόνα στη Νοβέλδα ή η σύντομη περιπέτεια στην Κωνσταντινούπολη με τη Φενερμπαχτσέ. Σίγουρα, πάντως, δεν επιδείνωσε την κατάστασή του ο θάνατος της κορούλας του, όπως πιστεύαμε όταν μάθαμε ότι αυτοκτόνησε. Αλλά και πάλι είναι δύσκολο να δεχθείς ότι το άγχος που προκαλεί ένας τραυματισμός που θεωρητικά απειλεί το όνειρό σου να παίξεις στο Μουντιάλ με την εθνική σου ομάδα, μπορεί να σε οδηγήσει σε τέτοιο αδιέξοδο.
Το πιο χρήσιμο μάθημα που μας δίνει αυτό το βιβλίο, είναι ότι αν ποτέ νιώσεις όπως ο Ένκε, δεν πρέπει να φοβηθείς να μιλήσεις για το πρόβλημά σου. Τα χρόνια που μεσολάβησαν από το 2009 έως σήμερα, ο κόσμος ευτυχώς έχει συνειδητοποιήσει ότι δεν είναι ντροπή να πεις παραέξω ότι πάσχεις από κατάθλιψη, όπως φοβήθηκε ο Γερμανός τερματοφύλακας. Είναι μία ασθένεια όπως όλες οι άλλες, μία ασθένεια η οποία μπορεί να νικηθεί - όπως την είχε νικήσει κι ο ίδιος την πρώτη φορά που του χτύπησε την πόρτα, το 2003.
Ο Ένκε δεν ήταν Μέσι, Ρονάλντο, Μαραντόνα ή Πελέ, όμως η τραγική ιστορία του είναι τόσο ενδιαφέρουσα, που αξίζει να διαβαστεί απ' όλους τους ποδοσφαιρόφιλους - και ειδικά τους συναδέλφους μου αθλητικούς συντάκτες. Θα τους βοηθήσει να δουν από άλλο πρίσμα το άθλημα και ενδεχομένως να τους κανει πιο επιεικείς στις κρίσεις τους ακόμα και για τις πιο κακές στιγμές των ποδοσφαιριστών στους αγώνες τους.
September 4, 2018
I read this mainly due to universally positive reviews, and they were justified. The pacing of the book was handled excellently and it kept the right balance between sensitivity and mawkishness for what was a difficult subject.
The suicide that prompted this book is well-known in the football world; Enke's career probably isn't, and Reng covers both in a long biography of a footballer he knew personally. As a result, the personal elements seem more genuine, and Reng has interviewed a number of Enke's close friends to build a complete, if favourable picture (insisting his Portuguese roommate watched TV in German rather than a common language was because he behaved 'differently' rather than 'selfishly').
However Reng stated that one of his aims was to give a better idea of depression, and in that sense he did a very good job, describing in detail Enke's actions at his worst points and the thought processes that went through Enke's mind was illuminating, both in terms of understanding the symptoms and causes. His daughter's death was not an immediate cause, as has seemingly been revised in the press since.
His footballing career was also described, with good detail about his style and relationships with his teammates, but the most sympathy I had was for his wife, who stood by him and supported him throughout in what must have been a very demanding twenties and early thirties. It's a cliche, but everyone involved is still human.
It is difficult and almost uncharitable to criticise the book too much, and Enke was not a 'character' who bullied people and dressed it up as banter, but Enke wasn't really criticised at all - his down to earth persona at the start sees him dress in expensive clothes and drive fancy cars as he got older - but he did seem a nice guy beyond merely platitudes out of respect. It almost has an unprecedented depth for a footballer's biography.
The suicide that prompted this book is well-known in the football world; Enke's career probably isn't, and Reng covers both in a long biography of a footballer he knew personally. As a result, the personal elements seem more genuine, and Reng has interviewed a number of Enke's close friends to build a complete, if favourable picture (insisting his Portuguese roommate watched TV in German rather than a common language was because he behaved 'differently' rather than 'selfishly').
However Reng stated that one of his aims was to give a better idea of depression, and in that sense he did a very good job, describing in detail Enke's actions at his worst points and the thought processes that went through Enke's mind was illuminating, both in terms of understanding the symptoms and causes. His daughter's death was not an immediate cause, as has seemingly been revised in the press since.
His footballing career was also described, with good detail about his style and relationships with his teammates, but the most sympathy I had was for his wife, who stood by him and supported him throughout in what must have been a very demanding twenties and early thirties. It's a cliche, but everyone involved is still human.
It is difficult and almost uncharitable to criticise the book too much, and Enke was not a 'character' who bullied people and dressed it up as banter, but Enke wasn't really criticised at all - his down to earth persona at the start sees him dress in expensive clothes and drive fancy cars as he got older - but he did seem a nice guy beyond merely platitudes out of respect. It almost has an unprecedented depth for a footballer's biography.
April 22, 2022
A well-written but desperately sad book chronically the life of German goalkeeper Robert Enke, who died by suicide. It gives an insight into the pressures faced by top sportsmen and the devastating impact of depression.
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