If You Know the History : 113 Years of Celtic Success

Jim Craig, a Lisbon Lion who helped Celtic capture their historic 1967 European Cup victory, delivers an authoritative and engaging chronicle of one of football's most storied institutions. This 192-page hardback isn't just a mere recitation of dates and matches—it's a passionate narrative that captures the soul of Celtic Football Club through its triumphs, tragedies, and transformative moments. 
The book's three-part structure proves particularly effective, breaking down Celtic's rich history into digestible eras while maintaining a compelling narrative thread. In the first section, Craig skilfully reconstructs the club's foundational years, bringing to life seminal moments like the 1892 Scottish Cup victory that launched Celtic's trophy-laden journey. The author's treatment of goalkeeper John Thomson's tragic death in 1931 is especially poignant, demonstrating how certain moments transcend sport to become part of the club's emotional DNA.
The middle section, covering Celtic's golden era, is where Craig's personal experience adds invaluable insight. His firsthand knowledge of the club's culture during this period lends authenticity to the retelling of iconic moments, particularly the seismic 7-1 victory over Rangers in 1957 and the crowning achievement of the "Lisbon Lions" in 1967. Craig's insider perspective offers readers more than just match reports—it provides a window into the dressing room dynamics and the human stories behind these historic achievements.
The final third brings the narrative to the modern era, though it's worth noting that contemporary readers might find the book's endpoint (during Martin O'Neill's tenure) somewhat dated. However, this doesn't diminish the work's historical value. Craig's analysis of Celtic's evolution through the 1990s and early 2000s offers valuable context for understanding the club's current position in Scottish and European football.
The inclusion of both black-and-white and colour photographs enhances the narrative, though some readers might wish for more visual content given the rich history being discussed. The writing style strikes a fine balance between academic rigour and accessible storytelling, making it engaging for both devoted Celtic supporters and general football history enthusiasts.
What sets this book apart is Craig's ability to weave Celtic's sporting achievements into the broader tapestry of Scottish social history. The club's journey from its humble beginnings to European glory is presented not just as a sporting odyssey but as a reflection of Glasgow's changing cultural landscape. 
Minor criticisms might include the relatively brief treatment of some periods and the occasional tendency to gloss over more controversial aspects of the club's history. However, these are small quibbles in what is otherwise a comprehensive and well-crafted historical account.
For Celtic supporters, this book serves as both a valuable reference and a reminder of the club's enduring legacy. For others, it offers insight into how a football club can become inextricably linked with the identity of a city and its people.
Verdict: A meticulously researched, passionately written account that succeeds in capturing the essence of Celtic's remarkable journey through Scottish football history. While it may not be the definitive last word on Celtic FC, it stands as an essential addition to any serious football library.
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Publisher: Visit Transworld Publishers Ltd
Published: Unknown
Price: £Unknown
Paperback: Unknown
ISBN-13: 9781840185225
Dimensions: 234 x 156 (mm)