Good fiction in football is hard to come by, but the latest offering from Freight Books is a collection of the very best. Idols and Underdogs is a novel concept, 11 unique stories from 11 countries, that is executed brilliantly.
The book is literally a “literary Copa America,” a collection of special authors from all over Latin America. The authors include some of the world’s most respected, none bigger than Mexico’s Juan Villoro.
The topics in this anthology encompass a wide range of topics, from provincial football and female fan groups to murder and corruption. While the topics vary, the collections always feels unified, unified in a theme of the beautiful game.
We really enjoyed the author interviews, something that provides great insight into what inspires them to write great stories that are incredibly creative. The reader will learn a great deal about their style, background, and passion for the sport.
We have to admit that football fiction is relatively new and there is a need for a standard-bearer for the genre. Idols and Underdogs certainly fits that bill, quality literature that would be enjoyed by anyone that likes good stories. Those that follow the game in Latin America will be afforded a special treat, thoughtful literature that exercises the brain and provides intellectual discussions surrounding the sport.
We have reviewed hundreds of football titles over the years and we found this one to be very special and unique. It’s something different, but very much on par with David Peace’s The Damned Utd or Red or Dead. The great thing about this one is that you get 11 stories from 11 great writers, making this an incredible value when compared to a single novel.
