C.B. Fry was Captain of England at cricket, played football for England and became the joint-holder of the world long-jump record. But he was also an Oxford scholar and a writer, and he tried out for Hollywood, represented India at the League of Nations, and stood for Parliament three times.
This was the author's first book and I thought he did a remarkable job. His research was thorough and his conclusions about Fry were thoughtful and well-balanced. I remember there was some negativity at the time this biography was released but I never understood why. That the greatest all-round sportsman may have been less heroic in private life was hardly the author's fault but actually made his story all the more absorbing.
Great life, great stories, great character's, great read
Incredibly well researched and written, linking Dr Grace to Bradman and Trueman a life well lived. Wouldn't have minded a game or two for Hollywood cc.
Iain Wilton’s biography of Charles Fry, simply titled C.B. Fry: An English Hero rekindled my childish admiration of sporting feats. He was a phenomenon, actually – Fry, that is: seemingly, a blending of physique, coordination, athleticism and ambition combined with eagle eyes for both ball and opportunity. The result? Records and achievements that will remain unrivalled, methinks. Sadly, Wilton’s intent on refuting Fry’s own autobiography, A Life Worth Living, hogs the limelight a little too often. But there you go.