However, given that this claims to be a true story, the characters have an unsatisfying comic-book feel about them, and are barely recognisable from their real-life equivalents. The action is full of noticeable omissions in the interest of a nice straightforward story. There are heroic goodies and dastardly baddies, and the simmering anti-Americanism that is never far beneath the surface of much English journalism shines through.

Regardless of who did or said exactly what in 1987, there is an interesting debate to be had around creeping professionalism in one of the last truly amateur sports, around the lengths that the universities will go to win this race, and around the vicious spitefulness that successful rowers (particularly in Oxford) often seem to incite, but this book isn't it.


A well written true story of the infamous Boat Race mutiny.   May 7, 1999
 3 out of 4 found this review helpful

This book delves into the feelings and actions in the preceeding year to the 1987 Boat Race. This book follows the life of two of Oxford's most well known people, Donald Macdonald and Daniel Topolski. I have to say that I could not put it down. I have read it three times more and every time still found it to be a great book. Full of betrayal, deceit and the English men that conquered it.


a moving story of courage standing up to unspeakable deceit   April 23, 1999
 3 out of 5 found this review helpful

Topolski tells a tale of brash American students attending Oxford trying to take over the greatest boat race in the world in the most cowardly and deceitful manner. A great tale of integrity and ability prevailing over nepotism. One of the greatest books I have ever read on man's determination to prove that hard work,honesty and ability will always rise above sportsmen believing they should be chosen,not on merit,but on reputation.