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Book at Bedtime

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Readings from modern classics, new works by leading writers and world literature

Readings from modern classics, new works by leading writers and literature from around the world

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Book at Bedtime: Red or Dead

Gary Lewis

Allegra McIlroy

Robin Brooks

David Peace

Book at Bedtime: Red or Dead: Episode 7

Drama: Biographical

Red or Dead

Episode 7

BBC Radio 4 - Book at Bedtime, Red or Dead, Episode 7

Bill Shankly's resignation at the height of his success stuns the football world.

After winning the club's first ever UEFA cup, Bill Shankly's resignation at the height of his success stuns the football world.

By David Peace.

One hundred years ago this September, in a small Scottish mining village in East Ayrshire, Bill Shankly was born. Shankly's passion was football. It was his job and it was his life, both as a player and then as a manager. He transformed the fortunes of Liverpool Football Club, turning the team into a world class side, and he has been immortalised as a hero. From the very beginning, he was as committed to the fans as they were to him.

David Peace, acclaimed author of the 'Red Riding' series and 'The Damned United', now turns his attentions to Bill Shankly. 'Red or Dead' pulls Bill Shankly out of the football world and into the mainstream and tells us the story of the man, not just the manager. Peace describes Shankly as "not just a great football manager. Bill Shankly was one of the greatest men who ever lived."

David Peace's astonishing book takes us into Bill Shankly's home and his heart, beyond Anfield. A tender and intimate side to Bill is revealed.

Bill's resignation sent shockwaves across football and the news left the Liverpool fans reeling. And Bill Shankly himself, the man who said, 'You retire when they put the coffin lid down with your name on top. Until then nobody can retire', found retirement a deeply personal challenge.


Read by Gary Lewis
Abridged by Robin Brooks


Producer: Allegra McIlroy.

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

By David Peace. Novel about Bill Shankly, manager of Liverpool FC

By David Peace. Novel about Bill Shankly, manager of Liverpool FC. Abridged by Robin Brooks, read by Gary Lewis

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