Customer Reviews

John L. Sullivan and His America (Sport and Society)

5 star:		(6)
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3 star:		(1)
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As a boxing writer and historian, I have read hundreds of books on the sport and even authored one. Isenberg's book on the Great John L. is among the best boxing books ever, a very well researched work that dwells into the smallest details of Sullivan both as a fighter and a sociological phenom of his time, the first blue collar sports hero in America.. To end with a cliche: This book is a must read book for fistic fans --Enrique Encinosa

A nicely written biography of a great champion. Isenberg begins with a scholarly discussion of the Irish-American background in which Sullivan was born and extends to the bare knuckle society were he reigned supreme for twelve years. The thorough coverage of Sullivan's career is full of interesting anecdotes of many of the great fighters of the era and you gain real insight into the America of Sullivan's time. But, most importantly, in the end you become genuinely familiar with the man-John L.-himself.

An interesting account of the champion from Boston. Exhaustive research makes for an excellent read. I enjoyed it.

This is a well written history of 1800s boxer and early sports celiberity John L. Sullivan. The author brings the man, flaws and all, and his era to life. Its a popular history in every sense of the work. The author writes well and is able in particular to bring the boxing matches to life. The book also has a good reach into other aspects of American life of the era. It brings the early world of bare-knuckle fighting to life and also illustrates the gradual transition of an underground activity into a mainstream sport. Its a fun book and an enjoyable read.

What a great piece of storytelling. John L. Sullivan is a true giant of American history, and Mr. Isenberg brings him to life in this fulfilling, enlightening read. I opened the book and didn't put it down until 5 hours later, when I finished reading the last word. Mr. Isenberg, well done and thank you for this wonderful book!

Dr. Raymond Hill
Durham, NC

John L. Sullivan was the first great American sports icon, a terrific fighter, a highly flawed human being and a man of his times. This highly researched and well written book by Isenberg is a classic that details both a legendary career and how he effected and reflected America at the time. I have read it more than once and often find myself picking it up and reading passages ... as a boxing historian, it is one of my all time favorite works ...

I liked the book but wish author would of said more about subject and less about social period, over all very interesting.