Book review: Soccernomics

Soccernomics is a very much a 'does what it says on the tin' style book. Whilst this no bad thing it does mean that Stefan Symanskis and Simon Krupers work is sometimes predictable and rather unimaginative. For example large periods of the book are dedicated to finding the biggest overachieving football nation. This process is then repeated for general sports, resulting in a rather tiresome read. However, despite this many aspects of Soccernomics make it a worthwhile read.

One of these is the in depth analysis that Kruper and Symanski undertake when it comes to the research that is the basis of the book. With serious thought and care evidently being put into the research it makes for a inquisitive read as the methodology that the two economists use is in itself as fascinating as the overall conclusions that they reach (which are often debatable to say the least!). The data itself is portrayed in a clear and simple manner and whilst there will always be a risk of data overload, interesting sub plots can constantly be detected helping to allow the book to flow.

Whilst the tittle of the book indicated it is for both the hardened football fan and casual economist, im not totally sure this is the case. With economic terminology such as the 'paradox of power'(where an underdog upsets the odds due to the favourite looking at the wider picture) and 'zibhs rule'(the ratio of rankings) being casually tossed around the book isn't as accessible as it could have been. This being said Kruper and Symanski have done a good job of plugging a gap in a fairly congested market where the have managed to add intelligence and guile to what they call in the context of the FTSE 100 a 'small industry'.

Overall rating- 7/10