For boys growing up in post-war Britain, the second edition of The Football Association Book For Boys 1949-1950 was more than just a book—it was a gateway to a world of football dreams. Published by The Naldrett Press in London, this hardback annual whisked young readers away from muddy fields and worn-out boots to the heart of the beautiful game. Its pages were packed with vivid stories, action-packed illustrations, and plenty of behind-the-scenes insights contributed by some of football’s biggest names, including Tom Finney, Stan Mortensen, and Walter Winterbottom. With 192 pages of content, the book was as much about inspiring the next generation as it was about celebrating the sport’s finest moments.
The magic of the F.A. Book For Boys lay in its ability to capture the excitement of the game long after the final whistle had blown. There were quizzes to test your knowledge, league tables to pore over, and puzzles to solve during winter evenings by the fire. The annual wasn’t just for boys, either—fathers often found themselves drawn into its pages, reliving the thrills of their own youth. The combination of practical tips, thoughtful articles, and lively competitions made it the most coveted annual on any young football fan’s shelf.
Physical copies of the 1949-1950 edition are now rare, especially those with an intact dust jacket, even if a little worn with age. This particular copy, with its neat owner’s inscription and just minor edge rubbing, stands as a testament to the generations of boys it entertained and inspired. The dust jacket, now protected by archival covering, speaks of years spent lovingly passed from hand to hand. Owning it today is like holding a piece of football history—a tangible link to the days when heroes wore heavy boots and every match report was devoured with wide-eyed anticipation.
What sets this annual apart is the star-studded lineup of contributors, whose names still echo in the halls of football fame. The likes of John Arlott and Charles Buchan brought the stories to life with authority and warmth, while features by Johnny Carey and Joe Mercer offered expert advice for aspiring players. The book’s blend of nostalgia, practical wisdom, and pure football joy ensures it remains a cherished collectible, evoking an era when the game was simpler, yet just as thrilling as it is today.
