Future Olympians choose their favourite books

Friday, September 30, 2011

The hopeful future London 2012 Olympians have picked their inspirational books for Bowel Cancer UK's fundraising event, which sees books swapped nationwide throughout October.

They join a host of famous faces who are supporting us and have picked their favourite books including Dermot O'Leary, Jane Asher and Frank Skinner.

Daniel Ritchie GB Men's Eight World Silver Medallist 2011 selected Around the world in 80 days by Jules Verne. Daniel said:

"Phileas Fogg is what epitomises a true English gentlemen. From the beginning of his 80 day race to win the bet with his associates from the reform club in London, he is thrown into a series of events that test his character and resilience, while maintaining his English charm. When all hope of winning the bet is lost Phileas seems unconcerned. I admire his personality and approach to life. This book started my love affair with the world of literature."

Cameron Nichol, GB Men's Eight World Silver Medallist 2011, picked Climbing Mount Improbable by Richard Dawkins. Here's what he said about it:

"The arguments and presentation of the natural world boosted my passion for science and left me amazed at the achievement of all species in 'climbing mount improbable'. A thought-provoking and factual book that everyone of all religious or non-religious beliefs should read".

Greg Serle, GB Men's Eight World Silver Medallist 2011, picked Mitch Albom's The five people you meet in Heaven.

"This book was thought provoking, causing me to reflect upon key turning points in my life. Thinking back, I saw how incidental events shaped my future" Greg said.

Pete Read, GB Men's Pair World Silver Medallist 2011, chose J. R. R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. He said:

"I really enjoyed these books as I'm fascinated at the creative capabilities of the human mind. The detail and complexity of worlds, characters and storyline by J. R. R. Tolkien just shows what is possible."

Hosting a Big Book Swap is easy

Hold one at home or at work and invite friends, family and colleagues to swap their favourite books. Why not hold a competition with colleagues submitting their favourite books and guessing whose is whose - there may be some surprises! Or, if you're part of a book club, use one of the meetings already in the diary.

Simply download a Big Book Swap Pack  or call the fundraising team on 020 7386 4006 to receive yours

• Invite your guests and ask them to bring one or several books to swap
• Ask your guests to donate a minimum of between £5 and £10
• Talk about your books and swap!