Coming Up for Air

4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars | 941 ratings

Price: 17.32

Last update: 12-21-2024


About this item

"An illuminating look at what it takes to be an Olympian… In this story, passion reigns supreme." —Cosmopolitan

"An emotionally articulate memoir…[and] an intimate insight into the good-hearted and talented young man behind the medals." —Attitude

A deeply personal and inspiring memoir from the celebrated Olympic gold medal diver and LGBTQ+ advocate

Tom Daley is one of the most beloved athletes of our time, having competed as a diver in four Olympics, garnering medals and finally, in 2021 in Tokyo, winning gold. But few people know the realities of his life beyond the pool—his struggles, his secret triumphs and the mindset he needed to cultivate to become a champion.

In this deeply personal book, Tom explores the experiences that have shaped him and the qualities that brought him success and joy—from the resilience he developed competing at a world-class level, to the courage he discovered while reclaiming the narrative around his sexuality, to the perspective that family life has brought him.

Inspiring, candid and compulsively readable, Coming Up for Air offers an intimate window into the life and mindset of an athlete and advocate who has left an indelible imprint on sports.


Top reviews from the United States

  • Alan Drucker
    5.0 out of 5 stars Left me in tears
    Reviewed in the United States on December 25, 2023
    Heartfelt, full of emotion, devotion, and inspiration. This is a personal and uplifting story which was captivating. Love to Tom, Lance, Robbie Ray, Phoenix, and to Deb.
  • Kelley Smith
    5.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating look at his life and the work to be an Olympian!
    Reviewed in the United States on May 24, 2022
    I really enjoyed this book! It is a balance of stories from his life outside of diving, from childhood to parenthood, and descriptions of his life as a diver and Olympian. It inspired me to reflect on my life's passions and how I am pursuing them. I especially loved his Dad's perspective on his diving performances- even if he came in 18th in a competition, he was so special because he was one of the 18 best divers. Brilliant perspective and parenting ❤️
  • Flowsignal
    4.0 out of 5 stars The title says it all
    Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2024
    I really enjoyed the peak inside of Tom's inner thoughts. As you should know from the title, the book is heavy on diving, with Tom's life, beliefs, passions, and concepts he lives by interdispersed. Since I never knew much about the sport, the descriptions in the beginning sounded like a foreign language, but I caught on later on, but don't quiz me what a twister is. Anyway, I found myself laughing and crying at certain moments because aspects of Tom's life are very relatable. I wonder how the book would be different if it chronicle his career through his retirement in 2024.
  • Torhild B.
    5.0 out of 5 stars Olympian with style
    Reviewed in the United States on October 21, 2021
    Definitely loved this book which is a must read if you have read the last authobio from Tom daley.
    There are so many plusses to this one. His writing has evolved and he gives you insight to things that happens behind and off camera. Tom gives us tidbitds that are so precious, and to be honest...this one is one of those books I gladly will return to for a reread.
    I felt i sat there beside him while he told me a story..
  • lmpartin
    5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect Dive
    Reviewed in the United States on August 17, 2022
    This book was a joy to read. Tom Daley's experience as an Olympics winner and as husband to Lance and Papa to Robbie was inspirational.
  • ILAndy
    5.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable read
    Reviewed in the United States on June 28, 2022
    Tom's story is so interesting. His book offers readers a good look into his life preparing for Olympic diving and the focus that comes to an Olympic athlete.
  • Ralph
    5.0 out of 5 stars A gay hero
    Reviewed in the United States on September 1, 2023
    We need gay heroes and this is one of them.
  • Lee Foster
    4.0 out of 5 stars Shows how to overcome ourselves
    Reviewed in the United States on June 3, 2022
    A sharp story of how one faces the challenges in their life and learns to deal with them. Tom’s hardest critique was himself. Very close to my wheel house. To overcome these blocks so early in life was inspirational. Also a wonderful live story.

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