Picking Up the Threads: The Colours of World Football by John Chandler is a unique title. It covers an often neglected bit of football nostalgia, the history behind the colors and kit of the world’s most famous teams. It is a must for any football trivia fan, covering more than 150 teams and uniforms.
Many soccer historians will tell you about a team’s history, but most will not care to mention their colors or their uniforms. Yet these are an integral part of a club’s history as they are more than just a color. They are symbols of something deeper, a story waiting to be told.
The best part of the book are the illustrations that range from video game-esque portrayals of footballing stars to more realistic cartoons that offer light-hearted commentary on the beautiful game.
The book is a fun look at footballing history that offers something for everyone. The casual fan will be surprised that talking kit may be cool, while the academic will scroll for bits of lore that has never been told before.
It is a joy in every regard and well worth the $15.95 list price. You’ll get a laugh or two, learn more about the game we all love, and have a new respect for the colors donned by your favorite team.
P.S. Its small size makes it a perfect stocking stuffer for any football fan, especially if they adore the EPL, Football League, or the SPL.
