A review by stevenk
The Sweet Science by A.J. Liebling

4.0

A wonderful collection of the authors pieces on boxing written originally for the New Yorker in the early 50's. At a time when TV was changing boxing Liebling discusses the sport, it's history and culture in a highly entertaining way with great language and references to literature, history, and myth. This book not only brings to life the fights but the atmosphere surrounding the fights from the training camps, the colorful promoters and managers, the sparing partners, the undercard bouts, the crowds, and the pubs. From his descriptions of the fighters and arenas to the chatter of the crowds and atmosphere of the boxing clubs this book was a great read at a time when great boxing writing has disappeared from my local paper.