Black, White and Gold

by Kelly Holmes, Fanny Blake

Kelly Holmes made history when she brought home double gold in the 2004 Olympics, becoming a national hero. She won Sports Personality of the Year, was given a Damehood, fully backed London's successful 2012 Olympic bid and became a superstar on the red carpet as well as a much acclaimed and consulted professional in the sporting world.

Now in her staggeringly honest updated autobiography she reveals the times she fought back tears to battle against injury and win gold, plus the emotional decision she made to retire from athletics.

Including details of her unsettled childhood, trials in the army and a struggle with self harm, Kelly's amazing determination carries through to make this inspirational and powerful autobiography a tale of triumph over adversity and a model for readers of all ages and backgrounds.

Genres: Biography, Sports, Nonfiction, Autobiography

Paperback

First published June 6, 2005

Reviews

[Jenny Challis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it, such great story and moved at a fast pace!

[James Scaife · Rating 2 out of 5]

After first hearing Kelly’s story on a podcast, I was keen to learn more about her journey to the pinnacle of Athletics.

But this book was certainly the wrong way to go about it, from initially being eager to keep reading I quickly found myself struggling to read one chapter without getting bored and ended up skim reading the last three completely.

There were some very strong chapters about her continued struggles with injuries and accounts of each Olympic games (although sparse at times) which were enjoyable.

The best way I can describe this book is very few strong chapters sandwiched by a lot of dry, filler content.

A shame that such an extraordinary story of perseverance, dedication and commitment to a sport could become such a chore to get through.

2/5 stars.

[Matthew Senior · Rating 2 out of 5]

As a massive athletics nut I was really looking forward to reading this book, as she is an inspirational runner. I know this is an autobiography and covers all aspects of her life but I skimmed through a lot of the army stuff and the last few chapters. I wasn’t particularly interested in her time on Dancing on Ice. I also thought that her crowning moment of winning the Olympics was not detailed enough and she could have broken down the races & her emotions greater. Overall a story of great perseverance, getting the best out of yourself and going for glory but not quite what I expected/wanted.

[Cath Ly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I couldn’t help watching some of those big races on YouTube after reading each one! The olympic wins especially get the goosebumps going. An inspiring read, but you probably need to enjoy and/or appreciate athletics.

[Orla Macfarlane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good autobiography. Was nice because she spoke about so much more than sport like her upbringing and her time in the army. Very interesting diverse woman. Would recommend if you like a sports autobiography.

[Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book but I don’t think autobiography are for me.

Kelly Holmes has an interesting career and loads of injury. She has suffered a lot for her career

[John Reeves · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting, as I used to live in Tonbridge. Kelly's home town.

[Jo Brodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many athlete biographies are hurriedly (and largely ghost) written to cash in on some particular event such as an Olympic win and might reveal relatively little about the athlete themselves. Kelly Holmes' book was written with assistance from Fanny Blake, but you get the impression that Holmes was more than usually involved and it gives much more detail and insight into the mind of a champion. It is well written and an informative and enjoyable read.

[Bex · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, it was honest, energetic and inspiring. I will definitely read this again down the line.

[Uhurumwinyi]

Inspiring.

[Merelda Ilnora · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really did enjoy this book glad she updated it to cos thing of buying before she updated it glad i never, she is very inspiring woman!..💓💓☺️

[Katie Mac]

Very inspiring read, may have to polish off my running shoes......:)

[OxoNewbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring! Kelly Holmes comes across as a genuinely warm person.

4 stars.

[Laurie-Ann Hitchcock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moving, and Motivational!