Sweet William

by Andrew O’Toole
Sweet William cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Biography and Memoir
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  • ID: 8232
  • Added: 2025-12-21
  • Updated: 2025-12-21
  • ISBN: 9780252056109
  • Publisher: University of Illinois Press
  • Published: 2024-03-18
  • Reviews: 3

Sweet William delves into the extraordinary life of Billy Conn, an Irish working-class hero from Pittsburgh who captured hearts with his charisma, boxing prowess, and striking good looks. Known as 'the Pittsburgh Kid,' Conn's near-defeat of heavyweight champion Joe Louis in 1941 cemented his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of all time. Andrew O'Toole paints a vivid picture of Conn's career, drawing from newspaper accounts, personal scrapbooks, and interviews with family members to provide an intimate look at the man behind the myth./n/nThe book not only chronicles Conn's boxing career but also explores his ventures into Hollywood and his service in the army. O'Toole offers a compelling narrative that captures the pageantry of sports during the 1930s and '40s, as well as the personal relationships that shaped Conn's life. From his romantic entanglements to his rivalries and friendships, Sweet William provides a comprehensive and engaging portrait of a public icon.

Reviews
BoxingScene · 2019-01-01
excellent 4.50

The book is praised for its detailed account of Billy Conn's life and career, particularly the two Louis-Conn fights. It is considered a must-read for boxing fans.

BoxingScene highlights Sweet William as one of the best books on boxing, particularly for its detailed account of Billy Conn's life and career. The two Louis-Conn fights are noted as the highlights of the book, providing a thrilling narrative that captures the essence of Conn's boxing prowess. The author's research and storytelling make this biography a must-read for anyone interested in the sport of boxing.

Quick quotes

    A solid biography of light-heavyweight great Billy Conn.

    The two Louis-Conn fights are the highlights of the book.

    This book is a must-read for boxing fans.

Goodreads · 2010-01-01
insightful 4.00

The biography provides a detailed look into Billy Conn's life, highlighting his personal relationships and boxing career. It offers a comprehensive view of the champion's journey and struggles.

This biography is a deep dive into the life of Billy Conn, focusing not just on his boxing career but also on his personal life. The author does a great job of capturing Conn's relationships with his girlfriend, manager, and rivals, providing an intimate look at the man behind the champion. The narrative is engaging and well-researched, making it a compelling read for both boxing enthusiasts and general readers.

Quick quotes

    A solid biography of light-heavyweight great Billy Conn.

    The two Louis-Conn fights are the highlights of the book.

    O'Toole compellingly captures the personal life of a champion.

Cincinnati Library · 2010-01-01
compelling 4.25

The book offers an intimate look at Billy Conn's personal life and relationships, providing a well-rounded portrait of the champion. It is praised for its compelling narrative and detailed research.

The Cincinnati Library review of Sweet William emphasizes the book's intimate portrayal of Billy Conn's personal life and relationships. The author's compelling narrative and detailed research are highlighted as key strengths, making this biography a captivating read. The book provides a well-rounded portrait of Conn, showcasing not just his boxing career but also the personal struggles and relationships that shaped his life.

Quick quotes

    Presenting an intimate look at the champion's relationships with his girlfriend, manager, and rivals.

    O'Toole compellingly captures the personal life of a champion.

    A well-rounded portrait of Billy Conn.

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