The Maroons exposes the family factors that helped forge the resolve of every player to represent Queensland in the first 40 years of State of Origin.

This is more than a rugby league book. It’s a book about the children of fruit pickers, butchers, military personnel; of truckers and railway workers. It’s the story of kids who were told they weren’t good enough. And the story of those seemingly always destined for greatness. It’s about Broncos, Titans and Cowboys.

It’s a book about resilience, leadership, Queensland’s history - both proud and shameful - and those who would stop at nothing to realize their united footy dream. Collectively, the stories explain why the northern state has held an edge over its bitter southern rival.