Sunderland AFC: The Definitive History

Rob Mason's latest work, "Sunderland AFC: The Definitive History", stands as a monumental contribution to football literature, offering an exhaustive examination of one of England's most historic clubs. Released on July 18, 2024, this 320-page hardcover is the most comprehensive account of Sunderland's rich 150-year journey.
Mason brings unparalleled expertise to this work, having served as Sunderland's official club historian and documented the club's story for over three decades. His intimate knowledge of the club, combined with extensive research and exclusive interviews with key figures, provides readers with both breadth and depth in understanding Sunderland's evolution.
The narrative begins with the club's humble origins in 1879, founded by a group of ambitious teachers, and traces its path to becoming one of English football's most successful institutions. Mason skilfully weaves together the club's impressive achievements—six top-flight titles and two FA Cup victories—with the human stories that make Sunderland more than just a football club.
What sets this book apart is its timing and context. The book captures both the historical grandeur and contemporary relevance of Sunderland, which is currently experiencing a resurgence in the Championship and sitting in a promising position in the 2024-25 season. Mason particularly excels in documenting the club's recent journey, including the dramatic fall to League One and the subsequent rebuild.
The author's detailed coverage of the Stadium of Light era demonstrates the club's remarkable supporter loyalty, with regular attendances exceeding 40,000, positioning them as one of the best-supported teams outside the Premier League. Mason's writing styles strike an excellent balance between academic rigour and accessible storytelling. The book engages both casual fans and serious historians with its thorough research, providing valuable insights into one of football's most storied institutions. This definitive history serves as both a celebration of Sunderland AFC's past glory and a testament to its enduring significance in English football. It's an essential addition to any football literature collection, offering an authoritative account of a club that has helped shape the beautiful game for nearly 150 years.

This book is a masterful blend of historical detail and passionate storytelling that will satisfy both die-hard Sunderland supporters and general football enthusiasts alike. ~ Soccerbooks 2024 
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Published: July 18, 2024
Price: £20
ISBN-10: 1837730164
ISBN-13: 978-1837730162
Hardcover: 320 pages
Dimensions: 163 x 242 (mm)