A Delicate Game

An investigation into power, sport and the human brain

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Specially Commended at the William Hill Sports Book Awards



A footballer dies of dementia, younger than he should

A 14-year old-rugby player is told to play on through multiple blows. He never wakes up from the last one

A scientist reveals a pattern of brain disease in NFL players and is discredited

A survivor of domestic abuse can't remember details when standing up in court



From the creator of the award-winning podcast A Beautiful Brain.



This is the story of the degenerative brain disease, Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), concussive and sub-concussive trauma. It is also a story of power, of science and sport, and of the bodies that society deems worth sacrificing.

It is an investigation that explores the truth about concussion in sport and beyond it, from the social dynamics that send young men into violent sports, to the scientists searching for truth and the families living with consequences. This story belongs to those families.

A Delicate Game explores the passion and fury of sport, truth and justice, violence against women, privilege, love, greed, hope and redemption. It's going to change the way you think about sport forever.



Reviews





'This book is vital, compassionate and fascinating. It has and will continue to change lives all over the world' - Steve Thompson





'Moving...persuasive...timely...absorbing...well-researched...required reading' Sunday Times



'Walker-Brown takes us on a gripping and heartbreaking journey through the human debris of sport' The Guardian



'Hana Walker-Brown is a powerful new voice in narrative non-fiction. A Delicate Game is sensitive, crushing, vivid and unforgettable' Will Storr



'A MUST read book for anybody involved in sports, the facts and truth needs to be common knowledge for everyone.' - Alix Popham



'A Delicate Game is a beautifully written, deeply moving and absolutely mind-blowing read. Hana Walker-Brown gives such deep insights that it often feels like you are right next to her in her encounters, privileged enough to be listening. A Delicate Game combines excellent investigative reporting with a uniquely passionate voice that is calling for immediate action. Everyone should read this book!' - Julia Ebner



'A heartbreaking but really important book. I can hugely recommend to all' Fi Glover



'Sharp, smart and vital. Walker-Brown is a super duper mega talent' - Anneka Harry



'It is hard to summarise the level of skill required to execute a multifaceted book like this. A book with real depth that will stay with me for a long time. The literary world of investigativ