Blood Over Water
Summary:
On a blustery, overcast April day in 2003, David and James Livingston raced against each other in the 149th Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, watched by over seven million people. It was the first-time brothers had battled each other in this gladiatorial and quintessentially British tradition for over a hundred years. Only one could be victorious.
In this book, David and James tell their stories for the first time, giving an intimate insight into one of our least understood but best-loved national sporting occasions. James, following in his family’s footsteps, is a student at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, while David, wanting to escape his brother's shadow, joins Christ Church College at Oxford University. As the pair embark on training loads almost beyond endurance, their stories reveal the rivalries between these ancient and great institutions.
Told in alternating narratives, “Blood Over Water” is an emotional and searching joint self-portrait, and an account of a brotherly relationship tested to breaking point. David's fervent desire to beat his older brother pushes him on, but drives an impenetrable wedge between the siblings. As the race approaches they are unable even to speak to each other. It is only after the race, James wrestling with his final Cambridge exams, that they start to reconcile their shattered relationship, damaged by their pursuit of a shared dream.
Not only a nail-biting drama for sports fans, “Blood Over Water” also looks at the darker side of sibling rivalry and asks just what you would be willing to sacrifice to achieve your dreams. (Summary and cover courtesy of goodreads.com)
Review:
If you like sports books, first – go read “Boys in the Boat” and then once you’re a proper rowing fan, read “Blood Over Water”. While in London I decided I wanted to learn how to row and took two series of lessons which was 1) very challenging and 2) incredibly fun. It gave me an even deeper appreciation for the sport and what devastation the Livingston brothers must have gone through. This book has the best aspects of a sports book: a huge event, a team of interesting characters and unexpected odds.
The brothers do a great job alternating perspectives and being honest in their opinions and thoughts about each other, even when they weren’t the most charitable. I can’t image what it would have been like for their parents to be in the middle of the situation. And a fair question “Will I still enjoy this if I’m not a rowing fan?” Yes, I think this book is written for anyone who enjoys sports books, but if you’re completely new to the sport I’d recommend “Boys in the Boat” first.
Rating: 5 stars!
Who should read it? Sports fans who are interested in a compelling and psychological challenge.