Time keeps chipping away at the winter break. Since we're getting closer and closer to March, I wanted to do another installment to my F1 series; parts 1 and 2 can be read in no particular order! This one is focused on biographies and memoirs.
Life to the Limit: My Autobiography by Jenson Button
Jenson Button is the 2009 F1 World Drivers Champion, so his autobiography a good choice to glimpse a less-featured F1 story. Button goes into depth about his relationship with racing, and how it evolves over time. He started racing with his father John Button, a former rally racer, by his side, transitioned through the ranks, and had 18 seasons in Formula 1. Button balances stories of his success with the core love for racing that he shared with his father to evoke ruminations on family, patience, and triumph. He's also written How To Be an F1 Driver: My Guide to Life In The Fast Lane.
Staying on Track: The Autobiography by Nigel Mansell
Nigel Mansell has an impressive track record driving for teams like Williams and Ferrari, and came close to the championship a few times before he took his only title in 1992. His autobiography is a view into the past where one can see the struggles and delights of racing in the '70s, '80s, and '90s. Furthermore, Mansell has unique perspectives into other drivers, and other categories of motorsport since he is also the 1993 IndyCar champion. More than racing, Mansell shares a deep appreciation for his family, especially his wife Roseanne, who are fundamental components of his life.
Winning Is Not Enough by Jackie Stewart
Jackie Stewart is impressive for his accomplishments both on and off the track. A three-time champion in the '60s and '70s, Stewart might be just as well known for his fierce stewarding of the progression of safety in Formula 1. Moreover, he reflects on his time as a racer, his time with family, and his foray back into F1 as a team owner with his son. Stewart's life has always been intertwined with racing, and his autobiography details the highs, lows, and moments away from the track to highlight what Stewart holds most valuable in life. Certainly recommend this short read as an audiobook, since it is narrated by Stewart intentionally due to his dyslexia.
Driven by Determination: A Celebration of the Achievements of Women in Formula 1 by E.J. Agosti
In this biography, E.J. Agosti highlights a variety of women who have had a hand in Formula 1. In some cases, he delves into the past to highlight women racers who made history with their involvement in the sport. He highlights women who have been involved behind the scenes, working with teams in the present to propel their progress and innovation. He also features women of the future who are making names for themselves in feature categories like F1 Academy. This piece is an insight into women and roles within the motorsport world that perhaps don't get as much acknowledgement as they deserve.