Originally published in 2021, An Illustrated History of Welsh Rugby: Fun, Faces and Stories From Over 140 Years of International Rugby is now on its third edition.
Full of tales of fighting clergymen, poisoned arrows and deathbed confessionals, the book takes a unique look at the games, the players, the legends and the myths behind Wales’s national game.
Blending fun and facts with trivia and social history, this is Welsh rugby like you’ve never experienced it before. Containing over 80,000 words and brimming with delightful illustrations from Raluca Moldovan and irreverent humour, this book will fascinate young readers and curious adults alike.
The title has been a consistent best seller in the rugby charts since 2021 and was heavily featured and praise on BBC Wales Radio, BBC Wales Online, the Western Mail, Wales Online and a host of rugby websites, podcasts and print publications.
Publisher: Polaris Publishing (2021, 2022, 2024)
In Unbelievable Underdogs and Rebellious Role Models, James Stafford takes readers on an emotional roller coaster through some of the greatest upsets and shocks in the history of world sport.
It features incredible true tales of athletes who have overcome poverty, racism, injury, disability and even shark attacks to reach the top against all odds. Sports featured include football, basketball, baseball, surfing, athletics, rugby, ice hockey, American football, wheelchair racing, cricket, tennis, speed skating and boxing.
Packed with stunning illustrations by Tuan Nguyen that bring these epic stories and moments to life, this book will inspire, educate and entertain young readers and reveal the remarkable ability of humankind to prevail over seemingly insurmountable obstacles and challenges.
Publisher: Polaris Publishing (2024)
Ragby, co-authored with Czech art historian Petra Nováková (with contributions from writers and photographers around the world), was shortlisted in the ‘Outstanding Publishing Feat’ at the prestigious Magnesia Litera awards in the Czech Republic. It was one of several awards the book was shortlisted for.
A unique book of essays, photography, art and design, Ragby is the most significant and in depth book ever published on the sport in Czech. Five months after its release, a second print was needed to meet demand.
Ragby received wide coverage on Czech television, radio, magazines and newspapers.
Publisher: Labyrint (2023, 2024)
The English rugby team has been scrummaging its way around the rugby fields of the world since 1871.
James Stafford’s An Illustrated History of English Rugby: Fun, Facts and Stories From Over 150 Years of International Rugby takes readers on a thrilling journey through a century and a half of glory, failure, mediocrity and brilliance.
Mixing stats and facts with player profiles, match reports and social history, this book is perfect for hardcore and casual fans aged eight to 80. Packed with delightful illustrations from Raluca Moldovan and at over 90,000 words, this follow up to Stafford’s best-selling An Illustrated History of Welsh Rugby will give readers a new appreciation of the stars of today and the pioneers of yesteryear.
Publisher: Polaris Publishing (2023)
In An Illustrated History of Rugby Rebels, Role Models and Giant Killers, readers can learn all about the players, characters, thinkers and teams that shaped rugby and inspired millions.
From 19th century tactical innovators to 21st century superstars, the latest book in the Illustrated History of Rugby series explores players who overcame the odds to beat everything from injury and illness to racism and sexism to excel and thrill followers of our great game.
It also tells the stories of epic giant killing teams who shocked the world and took the scalps of heavily favoured opponents. From the Tonga team that beat Australia in 1973 to the 2015 ‘Miracle in Brighton’ which saw Japan topple the mighty Springboks, James Stafford and Raluca Moldovan bring to life some of the most thrilling moments in rugby history.
Publisher: Polaris Publishing (2023)
