This book is an excellent read, not only for the football history, but also for the context of the times. This paints a clear picture of what it was like in Stalinist Hungary after the war, and how even a man in a position of privilege could decide to leave. You don't need to be a football fan to appreciate this book, as it is an easy read, broken up into sections where other key figures are interviewed and offer their take on the same topics. Highly recommended.

This book depicts not only the life story of Ferenc Puskas who without any doubt should always be the member of the World Select, but the intrigues of the Communist system. I happen to personally know some of the participants named in the book, as I have lived In Hungary during the years of the Golden Squad! To have a team such as the Hungarian Select of the '50s may happen only once in a 100 years. The book, brings to life not only the achievements of the players but the intrigues of the totalitarian system that used such talents as Puskas & Co. to prove the superiority of the "Socialist Man".You don't need to be a "soccer" footbal fan to appreciate its true to life account of an era and its players gone by. The play-by-play reporting is outstanding. There was only one Puskas and this book immortalized him forever.It sure brought back the memories of the '52 Olympics, the "6:3" match in London and the thrill and the horrible end of the'54 World Cup... This book is a microcosm of man against the system and the system against the MAN...

What a jewel of a book! Vastly illuminating about why we are so transfixed by entertainers. Why we expect to "feel good" after a performance. Why we imbue entertainers with almost magical abilities. Fascinating theory tracing entertainers back to ancient shamens and healers. I'm thrilled I found this book and had the opportuninty to read it. It has given me things to think about for lifetime. I wish this author would write more on related subjects.