Dark Trade: Lost in Boxing - Donald McRae

If your a boxing fan, this is a fascinating read, giving a vivid insight into the world of boxing. An absolute must have. More than anything the book takes a more psychological and analytical look at boxing trying to unpick the pieces that make some men pursue such a violent quest. The book was written by Donald McRae a South African sports writer whom won the William Hill trophy in 1996 for his efforts (a feat he repeated in 2002 with his book "The untold story of Joe Louis and Jessie Owens" 2002). Coming from South Africa He more than anyone understands the links between boxing and race....and this link is examined continually ...  Read the complete review

'Dark Trade: Lost In Boxing' was originally published in 1996 to critical acclaim. The book details British based South African journalist Donald McRae's 'personal five year odyssey' into the world of boxing in the nineties and his encounters with the likes of Oscar De La Hoya, Mike Tyson, Prince Naseem Hamed, Roy Jones, Don King, Bob Arum, Chris Eubank, and so on. Through the book McRae touches on themes of 'race, celebrity, poverty, wealth, crime, sex, and death' and asks what drives these diverse characters to seek their fame and fortune in a sport that was once described as 'showbusiness with blood'. The book is just under 500 pages long and is split into ...  Read the complete review