Eric Liddell: Hero of Chariots of Fire

The Financial Times declares Hamilton as a guarantee of quality. The Daily Mail praises Duncan Hamilton's biography for bringing the legend of Eric Liddell to life, portraying him not just as a phenomenal athlete but also as an exceptional human being.

Eric Liddell, portrayed in the movie Chariots of Fire, was renowned for his Olympic achievements and his subsequent missionary work in China. Despite being the fastest sprinter in the world, Liddell refused to compete on Sundays due to his strong Christian beliefs. This decision led to him missing his signature event, the 100 meters, at the 1924 Paris Olympics. Criticized by the British Olympic committee and the press, Liddell instead won the 400 meters in a surprising victory.

After his Olympic success, Liddell dedicated himself to missionary work in China, where he settled down, married, and started a family. With the outbreak of WWII, Liddell sent his pregnant wife and children to safety in Canada while he remained in China to help the locals. Eventually, he was interned in a Japanese work camp along with other westerners.

Even in captivity, Liddell continued to practice his faith and uplift the spirits of his fellow prisoners. He worked tirelessly, counseled others, shared his meals, and organized activities for the children in the camp. Despite his declining health, he remained a beacon of hope until his untimely death from a brain tumor before the war's end.

In the vein of acclaimed books like The Boys in the Boat and Unbroken, For the Glory tells the remarkable story of Eric Liddell's athletic prowess and unwavering faith in the face of adversity. His legacy lives on as an inspiration to many, embodying the true spirit of resilience and determination.

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