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Second Wind
They call me the People’s Champion.
All I’ve ever wanted to do is entertain the public and hear the roar of the crowd as they chant my name.
From the age of just 11, snooker has given me a life of fun, fame, fortune and freedom. But it’s not always been easy – there have been plenty of ups and downs, on and off the table.
I’ve lived the way I’ve played my snooker – fast, hard and with plenty of risks. Some of those risks have nearly cost me everything; my career, my family, even my life.
If I had my time again I might do it differently. Doesn’t mean I have any regrets.
My journey has taken me from Tooting to Thailand, from Higgins to Hendry, from cocaine to the Crucible. I’ve been through a Whirlwind of change and come out the other side.
There’s a reason why I’ve held back from telling my real story. We all need a second chance...
Welcome to my mad, bad world.
All I’ve ever wanted to do is entertain the public and hear the roar of the crowd as they chant my name.
From the age of just 11, snooker has given me a life of fun, fame, fortune and freedom. But it’s not always been easy – there have been plenty of ups and downs, on and off the table.
I’ve lived the way I’ve played my snooker – fast, hard and with plenty of risks. Some of those risks have nearly cost me everything; my career, my family, even my life.
If I had my time again I might do it differently. Doesn’t mean I have any regrets.
My journey has taken me from Tooting to Thailand, from Higgins to Hendry, from cocaine to the Crucible. I’ve been through a Whirlwind of change and come out the other side.
There’s a reason why I’ve held back from telling my real story. We all need a second chance...
Welcome to my mad, bad world.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2014
38 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 14, 2018
This was an interesting read. Jimmy White along with Alex Higgins and Ronnie O'Sullivan seem to be the publics favourite snooker players and Jimmy was the player I knew less about from the aforementioned. History loves a tragic complex misguided hero and that is what Jimmy is here. Snooker/alcohol/drug and woman loving he reveals some of his best and worst moments on and off a snooker table. Parts I enjoyed were his friendship with Higgins, O'Sullivan, The Rolling Stones, one of the Kray brothers.. It is cool to see the wide range of people who frequented with the Whirlwind - whether he is in rough underground snooker bars, at the Crucible or in obscure places the world over. I liked his honesty with the drugs and his relationship with his wife but I think that every time he admitted to doing something wrong he would be too quick to apologise for it or that he didn't agree with it now he looks back. I think part of this book is a bit too sugar coated to say he is talking about some dark truths here. It was a quick and enjoyable book about a hell of a British sporting legend.
June 15, 2015
Not a work of great literary talent...but a fun read from an 80's/90's icon....I'm surprised J White had any time to play snooker given the amount of alcohol and drugs he consumed.....:))
February 7, 2023
Jimmy White is one of the most well-known and well-loved snooker players in history, and he’s perhaps the most talented player who never managed to win the World Championship. Although he’s still playing and still giving it a good go even today at the age of 60.
White has always been known for being a bit of a bad boy, and this book is kind of a tell-all where he goes into all of that and tells us about a lot of the mischief he got up to. He was a heavy drinker and a cocaine addict before cleaning up, and that’s pretty much the main reason why he never won the biggest tournament that snooker has to offer.
The writing here is very basic and workmanlike, but in many ways, that makes it feel more like it’s being told in White’s own voice. I also thought it was interesting that he flat out acknowledges his ghost writer in the introduction and even allows him to thank his friends and family for their support, even though there’s no mention of the ghostwriter on the cover. It’s kind of unusual because of that.
Honestly, I don’t have too much to say about this one. It’s an okay read if you’re into snooker, but even then, it’s not exactly worth going out of your way for it. I only picked it up because I happened to spot it at the book exchange at my local Morrisons, and I think it’s just that kind of book. Grab it if you see it, don’t if you don’t.
It probably didn’t help that White was at his prime before my time, and so I’m more of a Ronnie O’Sullivan fan. I’m glad I read this because I love snooker, but I can think of a dozen players who I’d be more interested in reading an autobiography from. Plus it’s kind of boring to read about someone getting hammered all the time when you’ve quit drinking for good.
White has always been known for being a bit of a bad boy, and this book is kind of a tell-all where he goes into all of that and tells us about a lot of the mischief he got up to. He was a heavy drinker and a cocaine addict before cleaning up, and that’s pretty much the main reason why he never won the biggest tournament that snooker has to offer.
The writing here is very basic and workmanlike, but in many ways, that makes it feel more like it’s being told in White’s own voice. I also thought it was interesting that he flat out acknowledges his ghost writer in the introduction and even allows him to thank his friends and family for their support, even though there’s no mention of the ghostwriter on the cover. It’s kind of unusual because of that.
Honestly, I don’t have too much to say about this one. It’s an okay read if you’re into snooker, but even then, it’s not exactly worth going out of your way for it. I only picked it up because I happened to spot it at the book exchange at my local Morrisons, and I think it’s just that kind of book. Grab it if you see it, don’t if you don’t.
It probably didn’t help that White was at his prime before my time, and so I’m more of a Ronnie O’Sullivan fan. I’m glad I read this because I love snooker, but I can think of a dozen players who I’d be more interested in reading an autobiography from. Plus it’s kind of boring to read about someone getting hammered all the time when you’ve quit drinking for good.
June 4, 2021
A great insight into one of the sports most notorious, brilliant and unruly players. A real whirlwind of a life and career for sure. Jimmy White has always been one off he most interesting and fascinating players to ever pick up a cue. I didn’t see him during the 1980’s or 1990’s when he truly was one of the greatest players to ever grace the table. However, I’ve seen enough over the years of his career to know how much he meant to the game. And of course, how much the game of snooker meant to him.
I had heard and read previously how much of a rebel he was in his day, but only after reading this book do I understand how much of a rebel he actually was. It’s quite crazy how he isn’t dead from the life he lead. The stories are unbelievable and you have to re read some to actually belobe what it was you just read. The fact one person could do and go through some much alcohol and drugs to still live now and tell the story is one crazy happening.
As a player he was the greatest to never win the worlds. Jimmy blames the confine for him not winning it and says he would’ve won 10 without it. He quite clearly and adamantly stands by that comment and to be fair, it’s hard to disagree with the comment when you see his record and what he did before big matches and how he was living his life. It’s a quite remarkable story, one of sorrow and joy. Jimmy doesn’t regret much and doesn’t feel sorry for himself also. One thing I love is that he doesn’t dwell on what could’ve even. A must read for snooker fans.
I had heard and read previously how much of a rebel he was in his day, but only after reading this book do I understand how much of a rebel he actually was. It’s quite crazy how he isn’t dead from the life he lead. The stories are unbelievable and you have to re read some to actually belobe what it was you just read. The fact one person could do and go through some much alcohol and drugs to still live now and tell the story is one crazy happening.
As a player he was the greatest to never win the worlds. Jimmy blames the confine for him not winning it and says he would’ve won 10 without it. He quite clearly and adamantly stands by that comment and to be fair, it’s hard to disagree with the comment when you see his record and what he did before big matches and how he was living his life. It’s a quite remarkable story, one of sorrow and joy. Jimmy doesn’t regret much and doesn’t feel sorry for himself also. One thing I love is that he doesn’t dwell on what could’ve even. A must read for snooker fans.
September 27, 2020
Wow definitely one of the best biographies I have ever read. Jimmy was the reason I started playing snooker myself in the mid eighties. I became amazed by his skill and flair on the table. I read this thinking it was just going to be snooker and more snooker, but was pleasantly surprised. Yes there is a lot of snooker talk (to be expected) but there is also another side of Jimmy White that he kept away from the snooker world. In this book he deals with his three main addictions (four if you count snooker). Alcohol, gambling and the most serious, his addiction to Cocaine and how it ruled his life for so long. I was hooked from the first page and if I admired him before reading this book, then I absolutely worship him now. He speaks frankly and pulls no punches, makes no excuses, or blames no one for everything that has happened in his life, both good and bad. It also deals with his friendships along the way with particular reference to Ronnie O'Sullivan and Alex 'Hurricane' Higgins. Definitely recommend to anyone. Awesome.
February 4, 2021
Disappointing
Obviously the fact that snooker is a recognized game around the world was lost on White. Seems he wrote this book directly to his English compatriots. The parlance of his English upbringing leaves the rest of us wondering what the hell is he talking about. Should have written so all could understand what he’s referring to. White also neglects to explain the game to us readers. He assumes everyone reading the book has complete knowledge of the game. One of my goals in reading this book was to learn more about the game. That didn’t happen. My impression after reading is this book is written by someone who didn’t have what it takes to be a world champion. A book of excuses, a tale of a colorful person who in spite of his runner up status in the game thinks highly of himself. He was right, after watching him play on YouTube then reading this book, I’m not as impressed as I was. Glad however he got his life together.
Obviously the fact that snooker is a recognized game around the world was lost on White. Seems he wrote this book directly to his English compatriots. The parlance of his English upbringing leaves the rest of us wondering what the hell is he talking about. Should have written so all could understand what he’s referring to. White also neglects to explain the game to us readers. He assumes everyone reading the book has complete knowledge of the game. One of my goals in reading this book was to learn more about the game. That didn’t happen. My impression after reading is this book is written by someone who didn’t have what it takes to be a world champion. A book of excuses, a tale of a colorful person who in spite of his runner up status in the game thinks highly of himself. He was right, after watching him play on YouTube then reading this book, I’m not as impressed as I was. Glad however he got his life together.
January 8, 2023
Not a family man with 5 kids
He must of had an iron constitution to survive the amount of alcohol and drugs he went through most of his life,and still played some brilliant snooker which begs the question how much better could he have been.He had a fantastic life with the friends in snooker, sport and rock stars, a really good read.
He must of had an iron constitution to survive the amount of alcohol and drugs he went through most of his life,and still played some brilliant snooker which begs the question how much better could he have been.He had a fantastic life with the friends in snooker, sport and rock stars, a really good read.
January 7, 2018
This was a really depressing read. It is ghost-written (very, very badly). I have loved Jimmy White for his snooker genius and his humility and good grace. Sadly, reading this made me like and respect him less- there is no genuine reflection on his behaviour and no wisdom.
February 3, 2020
Very honest, very Jimmy.
Excellent read. Jimmy doesn't pull punches when he's aiming at himself.
So much respect for the game as well.
Slightly irritating to know he could play like he did while off his face when my highest break is 3. (Go me!)
Excellent read. Jimmy doesn't pull punches when he's aiming at himself.
So much respect for the game as well.
Slightly irritating to know he could play like he did while off his face when my highest break is 3. (Go me!)
August 1, 2018
There's a lot to like about this book especially if you have an interest in snooker or White himself but I just found it a bit repetitive and muddled to keep me wanting to pick up the book again.
August 22, 2018
In the beginning fun. But it s actually more a collection of Annecdotes then it is a real biography. Normally a two star book but the first 100 pages were good fun
June 5, 2020
The best Autobiography of a snooker player I've ever read. A brutally honest and Frank account. Brilliant!
August 30, 2020
A fascinating insight into Jimmy’s life.
April 18, 2021
Honesty
An honest account of his life it is such a shame he did not realise what he was wasting until it was,too late.
An honest account of his life it is such a shame he did not realise what he was wasting until it was,too late.
May 6, 2021
Some brilliant anecdotes, some hilarious, some quite sad. Jimmy certainly never had a boring life.
August 9, 2023
Brilliant
Superb autobiography, thoroughly recommend, up there with Keith Richards, a full life lived, might start watching more snooker now, maybe
Superb autobiography, thoroughly recommend, up there with Keith Richards, a full life lived, might start watching more snooker now, maybe
August 15, 2024
what a life
Thoroughly enjoyed this book of an old school rogue and genius snooker player who lived a rock n lifestyle.
Comes across as a genuine guy as well.
Great read
Thoroughly enjoyed this book of an old school rogue and genius snooker player who lived a rock n lifestyle.
Comes across as a genuine guy as well.
Great read
November 3, 2024
If these are the stories that have made the book and can be remembered… imagine how good the stories which he can’t recall from those days are
December 4, 2024
Great read Jimmy lived such a rollercoaster life,this book will definitely entertain you
April 16, 2025
This is a really good book, I'm a massive snooker fan and could not wait to read this book and so glad I did loved it so much.
January 2, 2026
flawless
December 27, 2025
Working class boy is blessed with talent at snooker and goes on a 20-year alcohol and cocaine-fuelled bender, gambling a small country's GDP, reaching 6 World Championship finals (and winning 6 runners-up prizes), and the three Ronnies -Kray, O'Sullivan and Wood. The descriptions of his substance-based activities get somewhat repetitive in the middle of the book, but snooker fans ought to like it.
January 6, 2015
If I could have, I would have given this book 4.5/5. Not quite a 5, but near as damn it.
The first half - almost - deals with Jimmy's two vices; drugs and booze. I knew he was a bit of a druggie but didn't realise just how much of one! At this point I thought that was all the book was going to be about, but as you get beyond the halfway point it gets very, very good; from his boozed and drugged-up antics to meeting the rich and famous and knocking about with his best friend, Alex Higgins. There are a few sad times and a lot of mad times here, and even some quite hilarious times that had me laughing out loud.
Overall a great book and well worth a read.
The first half - almost - deals with Jimmy's two vices; drugs and booze. I knew he was a bit of a druggie but didn't realise just how much of one! At this point I thought that was all the book was going to be about, but as you get beyond the halfway point it gets very, very good; from his boozed and drugged-up antics to meeting the rich and famous and knocking about with his best friend, Alex Higgins. There are a few sad times and a lot of mad times here, and even some quite hilarious times that had me laughing out loud.
Overall a great book and well worth a read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2015
A snooker player describes his early life and career.
Overall I found this a bit dull and ended up not really liking the player, which is a shame as I was a bit of a fan when younger.
Only worth reading if you are a fan.
Real rating 2.5
Overall I found this a bit dull and ended up not really liking the player, which is a shame as I was a bit of a fan when younger.
Only worth reading if you are a fan.
Real rating 2.5
November 29, 2014
A very nice and honest book written in "The Whirlwind's" own special way. Great treat for the fans of snooker!
February 6, 2015
Fabulous to read . Even after reading his story about his involvment in drink n drugs he is still a legend. a must read for any Jw fan
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews