From Olympic podium to parent–teacher meetings, Grit and Goose Feathers is the raw, witty and brutally honest autobiography of badminton star Gail Emms.

A former world champion and Olympic silver medallist, Gail takes readers on a whirlwind journey through the highs and lows of elite sport with input from life coach and trauma specialist Stephanie Burge. Inside you'll discover:

• The stark truth of elite sport – the gruelling training, euphoric victories and the crushing realities of retirement
• An unfiltered and chaotic, yet vulnerable account of life after elite sport
• The adventures of a former top-level athlete trying to return to 'normal' life – from Gail rediscovering her love of raving to the chaos of juggling work, life and parenting and the awkward hilarity of dating in her 40s (she holds nothing back!)
• The struggles of identity beyond sport, the mental battles athletes face and the joy of embracing life's unpredictability – told with humour and refreshing candour

Grit and Goose Feathers isn't just a sports memoir – it's a celebration of resilience, reinvention and learning to thrive, no matter what life 'smashes' your way. Perfect for women and all sports fans.

Gail Emms MBE is a retired English badminton player with international success. First chosen to represent England in 1995, Gail became a world champion and Olympic silver medallist at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games with mixed badminton doubles partner Nathan Robertson. She retired from the sport in 2008. Since then, Gail has forged a successful media career, becoming a recurring presence on esteemed platforms such as Fighting Talk (BBC Radio 5 Live) and A Question of Sport (BBC One). She also focuses on motivational talks, hosting and event management with her own successful company.