Softcover Published 2016, 200 pages Mergers, Scandals, Triumphs
The Birth of Barnet FC
A History Of Barnet FC – Part One (1882–1912) is a triumph of football scholarship and narrative craft. The author’s meticulous research shines through in every chapter, yet the book never feels bogged down by statistics or minutiae—rather, it’s alive with colour, character, and context. The way the author weaves together the interlocking stories of Woodville, New Barnet, Barnet, Barnet Avenue, and Barnet Alston is genuinely impressive, providing readers with both the big-picture evolution of the club and the fine-grained details that make the saga so compelling. The account of Barnet Avenue’s defection and the subsequent scandal is especially gripping, told with a storyteller’s timing and a historian’s accuracy. Every sentence brims with passion, and the author's distinct voice transforms what could have been a dry chronicle into a vibrant, dynamic piece of football history.
What makes this book stand out is the clarity and originality of its presentation. The season-by-season reviews are not just lists of results—they’re engaging narratives full of memorable personalities and dramatic moments. The inclusion of full statistics, detailed lineups, and firsthand accounts adds real depth, but it’s the author’s ability to make these numbers and names matter that truly sets the work apart. Passages highlighting the shifting alliances, the heartbreak of the original club’s demise, and the rise of Alston Works F.C. showcase the author’s knack for both empathy and drama. This book transcends beyond mere history, embodying a celebration of community, perseverance, and the unique magic involved in building football clubs from their foundations. The author’s creativity and commitment have created a definitive account that any Barnet fan—or student of the game—will cherish.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48
Publisher: Dog 'n' Duck Publications
Published: 2016
Price: £16.99
Paperback: 200 pages