Book Review: Ayrton Senna – Memories and Momentoes from a Life Lived at Full Speed by Christopher Hilton
The first week of May is always an annual remembrance time for Ayrton Senna fans. Despite his passing being 25 years ago, Senna is probably the most written about F1 driver. At last count, there have been at least 30 English language books published on the legendary Brazilian. One book that most recently in the rare category was Christopher Hilton’s “Ayrton Senna: Memories and Momentoes from a Life Lived at Full Speed” was re-released late last year. I was lucky to have a copy of the original print run which has a side one shot of Ayrton in his helmet on the front of the slipcase cover. The 2018 reprint has a different angled front on shot of Ayrton in his helmet.
When it was first published in 2008, this book differed from all of Chris Hilton’s previous Senna books (and all other Senna books) by including reproductions of various personal documents ranging from his birth certificate, school exam results, karting and junior formula press material, Toleman Guest VIP pass for 1984 Brazilian GP, stickers, race programs, FIA invites and telegrams from the Brazilian President. Each of these memorabilia come in paper envelope sleeves that also function as chapter dividers – the inclusion of document replicas is similar in many ways to presentation in Bruce Jones’ book “The Treasures of Formula One“.
Narration wise – it’s Christopher Hilton’s typical narrative style mixed with interviews and quotes from family and associates. There is nothing really new other than material from Ayrton Senna Institute and personal stories from Senna’s sister.
From a presentation perspective – this book comes in a solid large format hardcover with an excellent hard-case slip cover. It definitely has a professional look – enough to mask a little of the gimmicky nature of some of the memorabilia. If you are a dedicated Senna fan though, there is still enough personal Senna material here to make this a worthwhile read and addition to your personal library – in particular, Senna’s handwritten letters and team boss correspondence.
Back in 2008 some of the photos included in the book had never been seen – these days it’s difficult to find any new books that includes Senna photography that previously hasn’t been released. That said, this book is still flush full of excellent colour photos – most of them are Senna off the track though.
With the re-release by Haynes, the book is now more affordable again for new Senna fans. Its still a must have book if you are a die-hard Senna fan – casual Senna fans can give this a miss.
Wow factor/Money Shot: 1982 letter to Armando Teixeira, 1984 Letter from Ted Toleman to Ayrton congratulating him on South African GP.
Suitable for: Senna fans
