Blink scoops Flintoff's 'unique approach to life'

Blink will publish The Book of Fred by presenter and former cricketer Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff. 

Matt Phillips, publisher for Blink and John Blake, acquired world all language rights from David Luxton at David Luxton Associates on behalf of M&C Saatchi Merlin. 

The Book of Fred showcases the former sportsman’s “unique approach to life", according to the Bonnier Books UK imprint. Publication will be supported by “a top-tier publicity and marketing campaign”. Publishing on 28th October, The Book of Fred will be available in hardback, e-book and audiobook.

Blink said: “It is filled with anecdotes, observations and the odd opinion all told with Fred’s trademark humour and no-nonsense style. Indeed, Fred’s approach to life is taken from all stages of his life from childhood indiscretions to adult, well, indiscretions via observations and the odd nugget of wisdom told with Fred’s trademark humour and no-nonsense style. 

“The Book of Fred will share Fred’s code for success, happiness and a life fully lived, gleaned from half a lifetime of hard yakka on the wicket, in the dressing room, behind the wheel, in the boxing ring, and even treading the boards of a stage musical. This is his way of giving his readers a laugh, some joy, and the occasional pause for thought along the way.” 

Flintoff said: “This is not a book of life lessons. I’m not going to tell you to make your bed or stand up straight. None of that. There is no blueprint in these pages. But, this last year we’ve all had a moment to reflect, and I’ve had the chance to look back and notice that although there’s been little method in the madness of my life, there has been the occasional common thread. I hope readers have a laugh and a good time and maybe, you know, pick up the odd accidental pearl of wisdom.” 

Phillips said: “Fred is a national treasure – a natural storyteller and someone who lives life to the full. It’s hard to imagine anyone else having a career that spans sporting hero, TV star, musical performer and amateur boxer. But somehow Fred’s done the lot. I think we can all learn something from his open, have-a-go attitude. The lesson to take from this book is: be more Fred.” 

Flintoff is an author, broadcaster and former England international cricketer, and has an MBE. Following his retirement from sport, he joined the panel of Bafta-winning “A League of Their Own” and now is a presenter on BBC's “Top Gear”. He has presented documentaries, written for newspapers, fronted his own radio show and has a podcast, “Flintoff, Savage and the Ping Pong Guy”.