Into the Wind: The Life of Carwyn James by Alun Gibbard is one of the most comprehensive biographies we have ever come across. It features over 400 pages of content and photographs that capture the life and times of a true Renaissance man.
James was a complex and complicated genius that was good at everything he did, whether that be coaching, politics, broadcasting, academia, writing, or playing rugby.
He’s best known for beating the All-Blacks as coach for Llanelli, but there’s so much more to this great man. He helped grow the game in Italy as the coach of Rugby Rovigo, stood against apartheid in South Africa, and was a hugely influential educator on and off the field.
Surprisingly he never was given the chance to coach the national team in Wales, but did immense work in making Wales a household name in rugby. He was a pioneer in the field of coaching and his attacking style was many years ahead of its time. Most importantly, he was Welsh to his core. The book is a celebration of Welsh culture, community, and history just as much as it is about sport.
This biography is an absolutely incredibly read, content on par with the legendary James. It covers every angle of his life from childhood to death and everything in between. It is done with great precision and detail so that you understand the historical context behind his story.
Y Lolfa is a world-class publisher of football and rugby titles and this offering just continues the trend of offering the very best in sport. This book is literally a work of art, great literature that clearly defines a Welsh sporting legend.