A great story about Elton John's ownership of Watford Football Club. The author not only covers the period of ownership but also the backstory of both John and the manager that brought great times to the club, Graham Taylor. I highly recommend this book to both football fans but fans of Elton and his music.

"Watford Forever: How Graham Taylor and Elton John Saved a Football Club, a Town and Each Other" by John Preston and Elton John is a compelling and heartwarming tale that goes beyond the world of football. This book captures the remarkable journey of Watford Football Club’s transformation from a struggling team to a top-seeded Premier League contender, all thanks to the unlikely partnership between a rock superstar and a legendary manager.

A Real-Life Ted Lasso Story

Before the fictional charm of Ted Lasso captivated audiences, there was the true story of Watford Football Club. In the mid-1970s, the club was at the bottom of the English Football League, languishing in 92nd place with barely enough fans to fill its stands. Enter Elton John, a lifelong fan with a passion for the club and the resources to make a difference. With his purchase of the club and the hiring of Graham Taylor, a straight-talking former fullback, the stage was set for an incredible transformation.

An Unlikely Partnership

One of the most captivating aspects of "Watford Forever" is the relationship between Elton John and Graham Taylor. The contrast between Elton's flamboyant rock star persona and Taylor’s no-nonsense, practical approach to football creates a dynamic and engaging narrative. Their collaboration was more than just a professional partnership; it was a tender and supportive friendship that helped both men navigate their personal demons and achieve extraordinary success.

Inspiring and Heartbreaking

The story of Watford’s rise is both inspiring and heartbreaking. Preston and John recount the highs and lows of the journey with honesty and humor, making the narrative not only about football but also about resilience, community, and the power of believing in something greater than oneself. The book vividly brings to life the atmosphere of the matches, the excitement of the fans, and the sheer determination of the team and its leaders.

A Personal Connection

When I started the book, it was because I love Elton John in a superfan-type way. However, by the end, I felt a warmth from the unlikely friendship of a lifetime between Elton John and Graham Taylor. It's the type of story that will stay with me long after I close the book. Their journey together, filled with triumphs and trials, highlights the true power of collaboration and mutual support.

A Deep Dive into Football History

"Watford Forever" offers a detailed and insightful look into the history of English football during a transformative era. The authors meticulously document the changes and challenges faced by Watford Football Club, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the broader context in which the club's revival took place. This historical perspective adds depth to the personal stories of Elton John and Graham Taylor, highlighting the significance of their achievements within the larger narrative of football history.

One more note...

"Watford Forever" is a must-read for football fans, music lovers, and anyone who enjoys a good underdog story. It’s a testament to the power of determination, friendship, and the impact of community support. The book offers a unique glimpse into the world of English football, enriched by the personal stories of two iconic figures who came together to achieve the impossible.

"An inspiring tale of resilience and friendship, 'Watford Forever' is a captivating read for sports and music fans alike." #WatfordForever #NetGalley

"A heartwarming and heartbreaking journey, this book captures the true essence of what it means to save a club and a community." #WatfordForever #NetGalley

For anyone looking to be inspired by a real-life story of transformation and triumph, "Watford Forever" is an essential addition to your bookshelf. Dive into the unforgettable journey of Elton John and Graham Taylor, turning a struggling football club into a symbol of hope and pride for an entire town. #WatfordForever #NetGalley

For somebody, like me, who isn’t a fan of soccer clubs in England and in general, this book was easy to read, and I never found myself confused with the verbiage.

It’s really cool to see the progression of how Reginald Dwight saw the team play when he was very young, and then ended up buying the club as Elton John, superstar! He didn’t do it for money, he did it because he loved the team and he had a lot of knowledge of the players. One of his first orders of business was hiring Graham Taylor as the manager.

This book provided extra insight to the town, the team, the owner, the manager, and the players. The last chapter provided a where are they know synopsis, and I enjoyed that part.

Overall, I enjoyed it a lot. It did take me a few more days to complete it than all of my other reads.