Don Mullan’s “A Hero Who Could Fly” Released To The World

A Hero Who Could Fly

by Don Mullan

A few weeks ago a small but very moving book ‘A Hero Who Could Fly’ was published about an Irish boy and his English hero. It is the memoir of a boy with learning disabilities who learned to read and write through his sporting idol, Gordon Banks. Through the darkest days of ‘The Troubles’, the influence of the boy’s hero remained constant. It all began 40 years ago this month when, on 30 July 1966, the boy saw Banksy for the first time on TV in the World Cup Final at Wembley. As an adult the boy became a best-selling author with Eyewitness Bloody Sunday – a book that inspired the award-winning movie ‘Bloody Sunday’ – but he never forgot the debt of gratitude he owed to England’s greatest goalkeeper.

The author has received scores of letters and texts from people in Ireland, England and Scotland who read the book and loved it. Here’s what some have written:

… the book arrived today and I have read it in one sitting! I am not a football fan but, as expected, I found your human story poignant and touching – big tears fell a few times! It was captivating and well-written and I congratulate you on it; thank you. Amber, Stockport.

Thank you for a truly lovely book. I’m trying to make it last by not reading it all at once! Difficult! I’ve just forced myself to put it down… There is so much wisdom and understanding here… Thank you for giving me a new hero at the age of 84… With very best wishes and congratulations on writing such an engaging book. Peter (ex-goalie), Perthshire.

… Just finished your Gordon Banks book… I have to say it was a very entertaining read. It had everything from a lump in my throat to laughing my head off, to the situation up north and great football analogy… well done again… your dad would be proud. Nicky Byrne, Westlife

And here is what some of the national Irish and UK media outlets have said:

“Beautifully written”, BBC Sport , June 2006

“… Long after the England legend retired, he remained for Mullan the most vivid and supreme representation of English football. That they would meet decades later, as equals and eventually as friends, is what makes this book ring so powerfully true and heartfelt.” The Irish Times , May 2006

“READ THIS”, Simon Hills , The Times, June 2006

Like those quoted above, I am sure you will find it an entertaining and moving experience. Details on purchasing the book can be found by emailing: albc@eircom.net. Please mention to Don that you were referred by Keeper Skool.

Royalties from the book are donated to the Dyslexia Association of Ireland.