Cover Image: Formula 1 Drive to Survive The Unofficial Companion

Formula 1 Drive to Survive The Unofficial Companion

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Member Reviews

As an avid f1 fan for many years, I alway like to pick these up on netgalley. It's all for laughs and to refresh my memory on things that slip my mind about F1 since there is always so much going on.

It was a fun read with information. Did I need a whole chapter reminiscing on what happened on the last race in 2012? NO, but alas, it is what it is.

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While the majority of the technical engineering terms went over my head, overall I'd say I enjoyed this. I went to my first F1 race in 2019 because a friend's boyfriend dragged her, so she dragged me. I chose a team based on driver attractiveness. It's fine.

Fast forward to the pandemic. My sister and I got very into Formula 1: Drive to Survive. Clearly I grew up, because we have moved on from driver attractiveness to team principal attractiveness.

Anyway, this is great for the casual fan that wants to learn more about the history of F1, famous historical drivers and the like. I need to catch up on the latest season. Who is your favorite driver? Team? Team principal?

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.

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Well written guide to understanding the world of Formula 1 racing. Beginning with a detailed explanation of the principal jobs in each organization, the author takes the reader step by step into how teams function. Reading the back stories behind the infamous rivalry of Mercedes Toto Wolff and Red Bull Christian Horner was fascinating. Chapter 2 details the history of Formula 1 racing, including the woeful lack of protective equipment in the early days. Famous drivers from the past like Jan Manuel Fangio are features, along with the evolution of racing engines and design by manufacturer. The book then covers the extraordinary technology of aerodynamics, engine power evolution. Racing circuits are shown for all the major racing venues, including some history and some that are no longer being used. The governing body is featured with the process of making rules for all the teams to follow, and those that push those limits, bending the rules to the breaking point. Subsequent chapters discuss the role of money in financing and influence in the sport, technological data, tires and strategy. Throughout the book are extraordinary candid and action photographs that would alone make the book a must-have for the Formula 1 enthusiast. My only quibble is the book ends a bit abruptly, and I would have liked to see another chapter bringing all the information together in some way, or looking to the future. Overall, highly recommend for the die-hard racing fan, and a great book for the casual fan who would enjoy the races more by understanding the teams and personalities behind the scenes. Thank you to NetGalley for providing an advance review copy in exchange for an honest review.

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I feel as though this is a good introduction to F1 for those looking for a way into the sport ! As a big fan of the sport I enjoyed this quick and fun read.

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While I've grown up watching F1. This is a good book to teach newer fans some of the history of F1 but also modern day F1. Including what makes up a team.
Very quick easy read.

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