Being Freddie: My Story so Far: The Makings of an Incredible Career

by Andrew Flintoff

Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff is one of the most exciting cricketers in the world and has improved out of all recognition during the last two years. In 2003, he was England's best player at the World Cup. Then, explosively, he lit up the second half of the summer in 2004, lifting spirits at Lord's with a bat-smashing 142. He walked off with the England man of the series award and averages to flaunt. This book marks his story so far in his own words, taking us up to and including the summer of 2005, during which Flintoff has performed heroics with both bat and ball against Australia. Freddie will highlight the moments and matches in his career that helped him dramatically on his way forward, and reveals what it is like to play for one of the most successful England cricket teams in history.

Genres: Nonfiction, Sports, Biography, Autobiography

368 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2005

Reviews

[[ J o ] · Rating 2 out of 5]

Jumping on the back of a wonderful success that was the 2005 Ashes series isn't a bad thing, but when it's a quite boring recounting of a barely-lived life, it can be rather tedious to get through. I do love Freddie, and even now, ten years on, he's still one of England's best players and the one fans will always love, but his life and career isn't particularly a good thing to be read about. You should just watch him: words can't really do it.

[Joel Davison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book so it was, although his retelling of 2005 Ashes didn’t do it any justice so it didn’t, still fairly goated

[Daniel Lang · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Being Freddie" by Andrew Flintoff offers cricket fans a glimpse into the life of the legendary all-rounder, but falls short of reaching the heights one might expect from such an iconic figure.

The book presents an account of Flintoff's journey from a Lancashire lad to becoming a cricketing hero. While the narrative has its moments of charm and humor, it often feels like a surface-level exploration of Flintoff's life. The storytelling lacks the depth and introspection that could have provided readers with a more profound understanding of the man behind the cricketing legend.

Flintoff's wit and charisma, which endeared him to fans worldwide, are evident throughout the memoir. However, the narrative occasionally feels disjointed, with anecdotes and events presented in a non-chronological order. This can make it challenging for readers unfamiliar with the intricacies of Flintoff's career to follow the timeline of significant events.

One of the shortcomings of "Being Freddie" is its treatment of certain aspects of Flintoff's life. Personal challenges and low points are touched upon but not thoroughly explored, leaving some questions unanswered. A more candid and vulnerable approach could have added layers to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with Flintoff on a deeper level.

Additionally, the book assumes a certain level of cricketing knowledge, potentially alienating readers who may not be well-versed in the sport. While cricket enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed accounts of matches and rivalries, the memoir could have been more accessible to a broader audience with additional context and explanations.

The inclusion of photographs is a positive aspect, providing readers with visual glimpses of Flintoff's career and personal life. However, the overall design and layout of the book could be improved to enhance the reading experience.

In conclusion, "Being Freddie" is a middling memoir that offers cricket fans some insights into Andrew Flintoff's life but ultimately falls short of delivering a truly immersive and introspective narrative. While it has its moments of humor and charm, the book lacks the depth and structure needed to elevate it to the level of a standout sports autobiography.

[Scott · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very quick and easy read. Pretty much a basic cash grab post Ashes win. Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff is a funny guy on the box but this was just bland and repetitious stuff that barely shed light on the 2005 Ashes that's been reported elsewhere. Barely any anecdotes or memorable passages.
The book does just discuss his cricket career in the main. With a bit about how he met his wife Rachel and his daughter Holly being born but most of it is this - felt unsure about my batting then good about it when I was hitting it out of the park, then I hadn't bowled enough, then I bowled loads and was knackered, then I was injured (he did have a lot bless him, he must be dropping to bits) and had a jab to stop the pain. The lost form, gain form, Neil Fairbrother helped me then we went for a drink down the pub with Harmison and Rob Key.
Disappointing

[Goodwell Mateyo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good recounting of his rise to become one of the best cricketers of his generation, culminating in the 2005 Ashes series between England and Australian. His recounting of his struggles with injuries, fitness, and form shows how human he is in spite of all his achievements in the game. Overall, a good autobiography, written candidly. The book does have a few more typos than one would expect for writing at this level, though.

[Jo Glasgow · Rating 2 out of 5]

Only a low score as the book is strictly cricket. No personal life aside from the occasional comment.
Good quick read for a fan

[Jalem · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super-easy read.

A nice insight into the playing career of one of the best all-rounders of the modern game.

[Ashok Sridharan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Being Freddie is the (ghost written) autobiography of former England cricketer Andrew Flintoff from childhood to 2005, when he was at the forefront of the English cricket team's historic re-conquest of the Ashes. Published just months after that historic win, this book was written primarily to capitalise on the post-Ashes euphoria.

It makes for an interesting and breezy read. Despite a relatively packed schedule, it only took 4 days to read it. To his credit, Flintoff (and his ghost writer) never let the book drift. Having followed the game closely through during the late 90s and early 2000s, I also had the good fortune of being able to relate to much of it, having witnessed it first hand. Flintoff has also dedicated no less than 5 chapters (out of 24) to the 2005 ashes- in my opinion the greatest test series ever played.

However, the book never rises above being a casual narrative of Flintoff's life story. There's little else by way of literary merit and at no stage does it get insightful. Unlike some autobiographies which stay with you long after you've finished, there's nothing in this book that sticks in the mind. It is, at best, a one-time read.

[chucklesthescot · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was another standard cricket book, talking about the early years and covering his career as he became a part of the England team. I actually thought, given Fred's sense of humour, that the book would have been a lot more entertaining than it actually was. A decent enough read for cricket fans but nothing spectacular.

[Shazza Jones · Rating 2 out of 5]

Didn`t really enjoy this book-i read just over half way then i started skipping bits,which i never do!
He literally describes every match in great detail,yet only mentions his wife and daughter fleetingly.I prefer a much more personal biography,this was just about cricket.
Although if you are a cricker fan you`ll probably love this book,but it just wasn`t for me.

[Howard · Rating 3 out of 5]

http://myalchemydiary.blogspot.com/20...

[Bharath Kumar · Rating 2 out of 5]

Couldn't find a page without Injuries & Controversies which actually resembles the actuality of the Career of a very fine ALL-ROUNDER in Modern CRICKET.

[Paul · Rating 3 out of 5]

Memories of the superb 2005 Ashes win. Not brilliantly written though.

[Richard · Rating 3 out of 5]

Passable for cricket tragics like me, but no classic.

[Neal Brown · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not a good read. It is very descriptive and much more of a timeline than an insight into the man. The book was clearly written just to capitalise on the 2005 Ashes win. Disappointing.

[Eoin Donohoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great insight into his life and interests. Has some brilliant stories in it and you get a real insight into his troubles. Overall a good read

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable book of a man that has a dream and lived it. I'm not a cricket fan but Mr Flintoff stands out from the rest.

[Alison Clifford · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great way to relive a wonderful period of cricket, and through the eyes of one of my favourite players.

[Charlotte Corrigan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Freddie’s story was inspirational! 🤩