The Flying Scotsman

by Sally Magnusson

Book Overview

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0704333791
• Release Date: March 1981
• Publisher: Quartet Books Ltd
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Great biography of a hero for our time!

I really enjoyed this book — all of the "Chariots of Fire" excitement, and the story of what happened afterwards. Eric Liddell is an unsung hero whose story should be told. I (young mom and homemaker) found this book interesting and fun to read, but I'd definitely also give it to to young people, especially young men, who may appreciate the story of an athlete who *really* glorified God (not himself, not his sport) through his life.

He loved Jesus

Eric Liddell is the "Flying Scotsman". This nick name comes from the name given to the fast steam train which did the Edinburgh to London route. Eric was fast too - a fast 100 and 400 metres track runner. His exploits at the 1924 Olympics are sketched out in the classic film "Chariots of Fire". This is one of the few books I've read through more than once. But you don't really get to know, even in this well written book, the real driving force behind Eric Liddell; though the book makes you aware of it by emphasising its enigma. Really, the truth is, that he knew how to dwell in the secret place of the Most High (see Psalm 91). Sally Magnusson is, or was, a TV personality in Britain. I can always remember thinking every time she came on the screen: "What a beautiful soul". Whatever Sally's sympathies with Christianity might be, it is interesting that time and time again, she reflects on this self same quality of Eric Liddel: the beauty of his soul. She weaves this theme into the comprehensive and intimate account of his life. Now, it may be true that many loved this man because he excelled in sport (running and rugby), but there is equally no doubt that those who met him were inspired by this other worldly quality which so impressed. Though I myself was born long after he died, I remember an incident which emphasises this point. I had to go down to Tiverton, in Devon, about 20 years ago, and there was no reply at the house I was to call on. The next-door neighbour came out and told me that they were all away. Thinking that this was a wasted journey didn't stop me from talking to the man and it transpired that he had been in China when Eric was there, and had known him personally. He began to speak of Eric with almost an awe, and described this very aspect of his character that Sally had found unable to overlook. Sadly, this gentleman had concluded that Eric was virtually the only Christian that had ever lived, and wasn't interested in the gospel that Eric had so loved. Ironic isn't it? when Christians don't live up to their profession people find excuse for not believing; and when people go beyond all expectation of what holiness can be had down here, they also draw back! Still, I sent him Sally's book and another one that was out at the time, and I am sure he would have read them with great pleasure just as I have.

True Sports Hero of Our Time

Many of our sports-crazed world would do well to study and emulate this great man.From the classic Chariots of Fire movie, I wanted to see how Hollywood handled this accurately. From Magusson's research, certainly one can see from actual photos that Liddell was not as thin or attractive as Ian Charleston. Also to my great disappointment, Jason, the American sprinter, never gave Liddell the Scripture verse right before the race. Interesting sidelight to this is that in 1988 Olympics all but 2 of 19 Israeli athletes refused to compete on the Yom Kippur celebrative day. This is wonderful read. Do not know how this relates to other works on Liddell as I'm just discovering them to find out.

Excellent character portrayal of his personality and faith.

This book portrays the details of this celebrity's daily life through his journals, letters, personal interviews, and the writings of those who knew him. They describe a faithful man of God who didn't prize religiosity or overly pious appearances. Instead, he modeled Jesus' character of love and kindness with his own humor, wit, and laid-back nature. Great book for all who wish to see how the Christian life is lived out amidst the daily grind.

A look at the life of Eric Liddell

If you enjoyed the Oscar winning movie Chariots of Fire, you will probably also enjoy this biography of Eric Liddell, the Scottish sprinter whose refusal to run on a Sunday - even in the Olympics - drew headlines. More than just a successful athlete (who did win the Olympic gold medal in the 400 meters in world record time), Liddell was a man of strong character and religious convictions. His selfless actions were a constant source of inspiration to others. This book is neither boring nor long and can be read with pleasure.