The Mechanic's Tale [Kindle Edition]

Steve Matchett's philosophical account of life behind the scenes of Formula One is a gem of a book which will keep the reader enthralled from beginning to end.

In The Mechanic's Tale, a follow-up to his previous offering Life in the Fast Lane, the former Benetton mechanic produces an account of his 10 eventful years in the sport.

From his days as an apprentice, to working with the high-tech Ferrari and BMW road cars and then making the switch to the demanding world of F1 supercars, the author remains level-headed and analytical about his experiences.

The book is an endearing and revealing tale of a young and determined F1 team going from the development of a fast and reliable car to the heady days of a double world championship victory and then back to the drawing board.

The author details the fickle and harsh side of the sport, recounts his conversations with and experiences of some of F1's most famous faces, but never loses touch with the reality of the outside world.

Some may criticise the book as slightly indulgent, but it is well-written and thoroughly entertaining, with a picture section that invokes memories of star drivers such as Brazilian greats Nelson Piquet and the late Ayrton Senna. Such a glowing appraisal is not given out lightly, but this book, offering a unique insight into one of F1's most exciting and eventful decades, truly deserves it.--Joanne Wells

Essential reading for anyone interested in life behind-the-scenes at Formula One.

Formula One Grand Prix mechanic Steve Matchett takes the reader on a compelling journey through his life in the pit-lane, from his beginnings as a young apprentice, through his time at Ferrari and BMW to his later success with Benetton. He gives eye-witness views of the great drivers, including Michael Schumacher, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna. He also talks of key Benetton personalities, and explains how the team was transformed into a strong, competitive organisation, winning three World Championships. His determination and frustration in trying - and eventually succeeding - to break into the high-pressure world of Formula One leaps off the page.

Steve Matchett has worked as a qualified mechanic for Ferrari, BMW and Benetton. He now lives in western France.