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Eric Liddell: Pure Gold : A New Biography of the Olympic Champion Who Inspired Chariots of Fire
Eric Liddell inspired the classic movie Chariots of Fire. But he was much more than the Olympic champion who ran for the gold at the Paris Olympics in 1924. Liddell dedicated his life to God’s service on the mission field and died in a Japanese internment camp during WWII. By his example, Eric Liddell sounds a clarion call for Christians of all ages: Our worth is not measured by worldly accolades but by serving and following Christ. Therein lies the true triumph of life, worth far more than all the Olympic gold medals in the world (Congressman Jim Ryun, 3-time Olympian and former world record holder). You too will be challenged and inspired by this fascinating biography of a man who ran life’s race for God.
333 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2001
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
March 27, 2013
This is a wonderful book, which chronicles the life and ministry of Eric Liddell, one of the greatest athletes of the first half of the twentieth century. About a third of the volume covers much of the same ground as the movie "Chariots of Fire," (minus the story of sprinter Harold Abrahams), and details Liddell's world-record setting and gold medal winning performance in the 400 meter race at the 1924 Paris Olympics. From an athletic point of view, it's a fascinating account of a man who, with limited coaching and training, but with enormous heart and courage, willed himself to greatness and one first-place finish after another. At the apex of his running career, Liddell was as well-known and popular in Britain, as someone like Tim Tebow or LeBron James is in America today. For a treat, check out Youtube and view the actual 400 meter final from the '24 Games.
But the book is about far more than Liddell's athletic accomplishments; mostly it's the story of a passionate and committed Christian disciple, who used his fame and notoriety as a platform from which to share the message of the gospel. Unlike so many modern athletic stars, whose main ambition in life seems to be to "fill the minds of others with thoughts of themselves," Liddell was a quiet, humble man who, unless addressing a public gathering, rarely spoke of his sports accomplishments. Liddell avoided the spotlight, and, while frequently using his fame in order to benefit others, rarely, if ever, used it to benefit himself.
Initially terrified at the prospect of public speaking, Liddell overcame his fear and, working with the London Missionary Society and other evangelistic outreach groups of the day, shared the message of Christ with groups all over Great Britain. The son of missionary parents, Liddell himself became a missionary in north China, where he dedicated his life to working with "the least of these."
The story of Eric Liddell is an inspiration to anyone who is trying to live an authentic Christian life. Obviously, he wasn't perfect; but he did demonstrate an unusually high level of integrity, humility, selflessness, and grace... often under circumstances that would cause many of us to throw in the towel and find another line of work. I can honestly say that this book has challenged me to step up my own practice of the faith, and to consider the life of Eric Liddell to be an example well worth following.
But the book is about far more than Liddell's athletic accomplishments; mostly it's the story of a passionate and committed Christian disciple, who used his fame and notoriety as a platform from which to share the message of the gospel. Unlike so many modern athletic stars, whose main ambition in life seems to be to "fill the minds of others with thoughts of themselves," Liddell was a quiet, humble man who, unless addressing a public gathering, rarely spoke of his sports accomplishments. Liddell avoided the spotlight, and, while frequently using his fame in order to benefit others, rarely, if ever, used it to benefit himself.
Initially terrified at the prospect of public speaking, Liddell overcame his fear and, working with the London Missionary Society and other evangelistic outreach groups of the day, shared the message of Christ with groups all over Great Britain. The son of missionary parents, Liddell himself became a missionary in north China, where he dedicated his life to working with "the least of these."
The story of Eric Liddell is an inspiration to anyone who is trying to live an authentic Christian life. Obviously, he wasn't perfect; but he did demonstrate an unusually high level of integrity, humility, selflessness, and grace... often under circumstances that would cause many of us to throw in the towel and find another line of work. I can honestly say that this book has challenged me to step up my own practice of the faith, and to consider the life of Eric Liddell to be an example well worth following.
August 27, 2023
3.5*
Biography
-Sports figure
-Christian
-WWII
Likes: 👍
-Learning about Eric Liddell and his family
-Learning about China during that time period and the lives of missionaries.
I don't typically go for biographies as I prefer memoir-style books when reading non-fiction. It was a little slow-going for me as this book had a lot of info/facts which made for a detailed story of Eric's life. Even though I'm not a biography fan, he was such an interesting person to read about and he lived his life well.
Of Eric: "He loved the good things of life as much as any of us. But all his happiness - the happiness that shone so radiantly in his face - all his happiness had its basis in his serene faith in God, his love for God, and his appreciation of God's gifts."
Biography
-Sports figure
-Christian
-WWII
Likes: 👍
-Learning about Eric Liddell and his family
-Learning about China during that time period and the lives of missionaries.
I don't typically go for biographies as I prefer memoir-style books when reading non-fiction. It was a little slow-going for me as this book had a lot of info/facts which made for a detailed story of Eric's life. Even though I'm not a biography fan, he was such an interesting person to read about and he lived his life well.
Of Eric: "He loved the good things of life as much as any of us. But all his happiness - the happiness that shone so radiantly in his face - all his happiness had its basis in his serene faith in God, his love for God, and his appreciation of God's gifts."
January 22, 2013
The only reason this book got a 4 rating was that it took me a while to get into it. This is in no way due to the subject matter but reflects the style of the writing. It is good to have 'real' information to add to a story however I would have been happier with far more use of a simpler referencing system.
Eric Liddell's life is quietly startling. I find it very difficult to come to terms with the amount these missionaries 'gave up'. Having children and then leaving them seems outrageous to me, however is this maybe what is still required in todays society for those in the forces, reporters in war zones, etc?
For any Christian I think this should be compulsary reading! It's a real antidote to the 'lazy' Christianity that seems so prevalent these days. An amazing man who led and amazing life.
Eric Liddell's life is quietly startling. I find it very difficult to come to terms with the amount these missionaries 'gave up'. Having children and then leaving them seems outrageous to me, however is this maybe what is still required in todays society for those in the forces, reporters in war zones, etc?
For any Christian I think this should be compulsary reading! It's a real antidote to the 'lazy' Christianity that seems so prevalent these days. An amazing man who led and amazing life.
February 16, 2021
A well-written biography of the famed "Chariots of Fire" Eric Lidell that tells the story of his whole life. A fascinating read of Christian missionary work in China in the early/mid 20th century before the communist take-over. A refreshing read of a world-class athlete who was at the top of his game, but chose to pursue a life of service rather than the glory of fame.
December 23, 2015
Eric Liddell, the 400 meter Olympic Champion of the 1924 Olympic games in Paris. His exploits expounded in the Oscar-winning film Chariots of Fire. A deeply religious man with deeply held beliefs. Known as the "Flying Scotsman," the hero of Scotland, won the respect and admiration of millions for his controversial decision not to run on Sunday.
A dedicated Christian and man of principle, not only won the hearts of a nation, but of the world. He used his fame as a Olympic Champion as a pulpit to share his faith. A gentle man with selfless character who later became a pastor and missionary in China. A wonderful book and equally inspiring story of an unassuming and graceful man obeying the call of God. This is a 5 star all the way!
A dedicated Christian and man of principle, not only won the hearts of a nation, but of the world. He used his fame as a Olympic Champion as a pulpit to share his faith. A gentle man with selfless character who later became a pastor and missionary in China. A wonderful book and equally inspiring story of an unassuming and graceful man obeying the call of God. This is a 5 star all the way!
August 13, 2016
Having first heard about Eric Liddell many years ago through the film 'Chariots of Fire' I was delighted to find this biography by an author whose books I have enjoyed. This book is honest in its account with none of the Hollywood glamour and tells of a man who gave up fame and fortune for something he held more dear - to make Christ known. It is a well written and moving account of Eric's life and ministry.
July 30, 2008
Was able to read this book with my son, Greg. I never knew the story of this godly man, who inspired the movie, "Chariots of Fire". Very moving, and very humbling, to see how he lived his life for Jesus Christ, and had a huge influence on so many people. Highly recommended.
January 25, 2024
I enjoyed this book thoroughly, found out so much more about his life beyond the Olympics.
Fascinating tributes to him, more than one noting average abilities, but complete obedience to God, and continued growth in his life in all areas.
Fascinating tributes to him, more than one noting average abilities, but complete obedience to God, and continued growth in his life in all areas.
July 21, 2020
Inspiring
Eric Liddell's faith walk was so much more than his much-publicized choice not to run on a Sunday. His daily,steadfast choice to put his Savior first and share that love with others marked me.
Eric Liddell's faith walk was so much more than his much-publicized choice not to run on a Sunday. His daily,steadfast choice to put his Savior first and share that love with others marked me.
July 16, 2025
this might be cheating as I never finished this book. I never found it as I believe it was stolen by one of the college staff and so I may never finish it but it was so amazing the bits I did read
December 22, 2017
This book is absolutely fantastic. It tells the story of a man who gave all so that others could know the gospel of Jesus. If you’re unfamiliar with the story of Eric Liddell, this book is a wonderful place to start.
December 16, 2022
As a runner, I am well acquainted with the movie Chariots of Fire, which chronicles the run-up to the 1924 Olympic games in a fairly accurate manner. From the movie, I knew that Eric Liddell was from Scotland, that he was a man of faith, and that he won gold in the 400m. I also generally knew that he was later a missionary in China who died young in the field.
What I didn't know until reading this biography of the man is that Chariots of Fire retells what is actually one of the least interesting parts of his life! He led a spectacularly fascinating life. He grew up as a missionary kid and as a result was separated from his parents for years at a time. He himself became a missionary and spent more years away from his family. He found himself in an internment camp in China under Japanese control during WWII while his own wife and children were safe in Canada. It was shortly before the end of the war when he would die in the camp without ever having met his youngest daughter.
And yet throughout his life, he maintained deep, abiding faith in Christ. In fact, he ranks among the giants of the faith and helped many scores of people grow in their faith because of the example he set.
What I didn't know until reading this biography of the man is that Chariots of Fire retells what is actually one of the least interesting parts of his life! He led a spectacularly fascinating life. He grew up as a missionary kid and as a result was separated from his parents for years at a time. He himself became a missionary and spent more years away from his family. He found himself in an internment camp in China under Japanese control during WWII while his own wife and children were safe in Canada. It was shortly before the end of the war when he would die in the camp without ever having met his youngest daughter.
And yet throughout his life, he maintained deep, abiding faith in Christ. In fact, he ranks among the giants of the faith and helped many scores of people grow in their faith because of the example he set.
December 25, 2019
From the Chariots of Fire movie, I knew that he was a religious man. Not until reading this book did I realize the depth of his character, filled with unselfish kindness. After winning the olympic medal in 1924, he dedicated his life to serving others, particularly in wartime China. His life is a wonderful example of a christlike life.
My first impression of the book was disappointment that it is historical fiction. I want my fiction to be fiction and my history to be as accurate and unbiased as humanly possible. It’s not possible to be totally accurate, but I’d rather that it not be intentionally fictionalized. Upon completing the book I found that it was thoroughly researched. It even included an afterword.
LMS often referred to in chapter 1, but never defined. It might mean Liddell Missionary Service. At Kindle location 337 the words London Missionary Service appear (but not the initials LMS.)
My first impression of the book was disappointment that it is historical fiction. I want my fiction to be fiction and my history to be as accurate and unbiased as humanly possible. It’s not possible to be totally accurate, but I’d rather that it not be intentionally fictionalized. Upon completing the book I found that it was thoroughly researched. It even included an afterword.
LMS often referred to in chapter 1, but never defined. It might mean Liddell Missionary Service. At Kindle location 337 the words London Missionary Service appear (but not the initials LMS.)
August 14, 2020
This is a must read! I have read numerous books on Eric Liddell including the only book he wrote, The Disciplines of the Christian Life, but this book goes from the beginning of his life, his athletic years, being a missionary to China, and lastly his death in a Japanese concentration camp. I love it especially because David McCasland gives the little, personal details (some funny, some sad) of his life which reminds of us the fact that Eric was just an ordinary human.
Eric Liddell: Pure Gold definitely has a special place in my heart. Eric Liddell is someone I have looked up to over the years. I read it in 2018/2019 and it still challenges and encourages me in my faith and I plan to read it again. I definitely recommend it!
Eric Liddell: Pure Gold definitely has a special place in my heart. Eric Liddell is someone I have looked up to over the years. I read it in 2018/2019 and it still challenges and encourages me in my faith and I plan to read it again. I definitely recommend it!
September 1, 2020
This biography is extremely fact-heavy. It’s amazing how many details the author was able to discover and word to fill a book. At times, this was its fault too. One event and person after another made them fly by without processing what was happening.
But in the end, it was simply astonishing and informative to know what all happened to Eric beyond CHARIOTS OF FIRE. He was a man obedient to God and the ending more than satisfied me without it being a textbook biography ending.
Would recommend for anyone interested in a missionary’s biography!
But in the end, it was simply astonishing and informative to know what all happened to Eric beyond CHARIOTS OF FIRE. He was a man obedient to God and the ending more than satisfied me without it being a textbook biography ending.
Would recommend for anyone interested in a missionary’s biography!
September 28, 2023
The research that McCasland did for this bought is amazing. The detail written about Eric's life are so many, one would think he pulled them from Eric's secret stash of journals.
Eric's life is shining example of a life lived and poured out for the Lord Jesus Christ. Never have I read about a person that made me want to live every aspect of my life for Christ so much, and also reveal so much of my own selfishness, laziness, and lukewarmness in my life. I long to meet my brother Eric and all the other saints in heaven.
Eric's life is shining example of a life lived and poured out for the Lord Jesus Christ. Never have I read about a person that made me want to live every aspect of my life for Christ so much, and also reveal so much of my own selfishness, laziness, and lukewarmness in my life. I long to meet my brother Eric and all the other saints in heaven.
June 13, 2024
An excellent, well-researched bio of the Scot who wouldn't run a race on Sunday. The author goes deep into Liddell's commitment to his Christian faith. The story is equal parts Olympics experience and the Japanese internment camp experience during WWII that followed after he put fame behind him to do mission work in China. Especially relevant in 2024 as it marks the 100th anniversary of his gold medal performance in the Paris Games.
August 30, 2017
Having seen "Chariots of Fire" when it was released, I must say how refreshing, and so fulfilling, it was to read "Eric Liddell: Pure Gold." His commitment to his Lord may have been evidenced on the Olympic race track, but it was that same commitment that empowered him for missionary service in China during troubling times. An awesome read!
April 24, 2024
This is a popular level biography, but readers will get a good understanding of Eric Liddell. There's more to the man than just the Olympic gold medalist--a man with s simple trust in God and a willingness to sacrifice much for Christ. There is much in his biography to inspire greater devotion to the Savior. A fuller, more scholarly biography would fill out more details that I wish were included.
July 23, 2017
A fine biography of a fine man which goes far deeper than the affirming story of Chariots of Fire.
Indeed, Liddell had a lot more to offer the world that the Olympic champion title. I enjoyed it very much.
Indeed, Liddell had a lot more to offer the world that the Olympic champion title. I enjoyed it very much.
January 27, 2018
An interesting book as I knew nothing about Eric Liddell except from Chariots of Fire (which, as it turns out, was just a tiny part of the BIG life he led for Jesus Christ). He was quite a godly man!!
September 17, 2024
I enjoy reading books about people who I know for one thing then find out there is so much more to them. This is one of those books. How Eric lived his life is inspiring. The world would be a better place if more of us follow his example.
September 12, 2017
It wasn't the best biography I ever read.
November 30, 2018
Well written account of this Christian man.
May 14, 2021
Excellent book if you want to know more about Eric Liddell beyond his epic race in the Olympics. Interesting details of missionary life .
August 21, 2022
A phenomenal life lived, veey well written, you wish you could have known him
February 12, 2023
A wonderful story! Liddell's life was so much more than his Olympic triumph. Inspiring, to say the least.
March 7, 2024
Excellent read. Eric Liddell was much more than an Olympic gold medalist. A committed Christian missionary whose life story is something to emulate.
July 11, 2024
Very thorough biography. Excellent read although at times a bit slow.
September 12, 2024
An excellent biography of this well-known story. I loved the greater detail of his service in China and his family.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews