The Wood Life: A Not so Helpful How-To Guide on Surviving Cricket, Life and Everything in Between

The Wood Life: A Not so Helpful How-To Guide on Surviving Cricket, Life and Everything in Between is written by Mark Wood, an England and Durham cricketer born, raised and refined in Ashington, Northumberland. It includes a foreword by Ben Stokes and is the winner of the 2023 Sports Book Awards Sports Entertainment Book of the Year.

Wood reflects on a career that, at the time of writing, spans seven years and counting, including winning an Ashes and a World Cup. He describes the demands of life as a fast bowler and the distinctive experience of playing cricket professionally, particularly for England. Alongside the highs, he touches on the hard work, sacrifices and pain that have shaped his journey, from global travel to time spent in waiting rooms and on operating tables, with a recurring fondness for margherita pizza.

Key details

• Author: Mark Wood
• Foreword by Ben Stokes
• Winner of the 2023 Sports Book Awards Sports Entertainment Book of the Year
• Written from the perspective of an England and Durham cricketer

Synopsis

Mark Wood shares a personal account of his life in cricket, from Ashington, Northumberland to playing in locations around the world. He writes about the realities of being a fast bowler, the pressures and privileges of representing England, and the work and setbacks that sit behind the standout moments. The book also captures the everyday details of touring life, including his habit of eating margherita pizza wherever he goes.