Champion: Joe Louis, Black Hero In White America

by Chris Mead
Champion: Joe Louis, Black Hero In White America cover
Good Books rating 3.83
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 8240
  • Added: 2025-12-21
  • Updated: 2025-12-21
  • ISBN: 9780860518488
  • Publisher: Robson Books Limited
  • Published: 1993-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Champion delves into the life of Joe Louis, a modest and compassionate figure who became a symbol of American pride despite facing relentless animosity. His journey from a young boxer to a national icon is a testament to his skill and the complex racial dynamics of his time. /n/n This book offers a unique perspective on the concept of fandom in America, highlighting the higher stakes and lower contract prices of Louis' era. It also explores the paradoxical role of nationalism in propelling Louis to hero status, particularly after his victory over Max Schmeling, the symbol of Nazi Germany.

Reviews
Boxing News Online · 2019-12-18
great 4.50

The book is considered a good read and is included among the greatest boxing books. It is praised for its comprehensive coverage of Joe Louis's life and career.

This review places the book among the greatest boxing books, highlighting its comprehensive coverage of Joe Louis's life and career. The reviewer appreciates the depth of information and the engaging way the story is told, making it a valuable addition to the literature on boxing history. The book is praised for its ability to capture the essence of Joe Louis's impact on the sport and society, offering a well-rounded perspective on his legacy.

Quick quotes

    Champion: Joe Louis, Black Hero In White America by Chris Mead is a good read.

    Included among the greatest boxing books.

    Offers a comprehensive coverage of Joe Louis's life and career.

ProQuest · P Andrews · 1986-01-01
mixed 3.00

The book has many admirable qualities but is marred by a significant flaw. It offers a compelling narrative that could have been a classic. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the engaging storytelling.

This reviewer found much to admire in the book, particularly the depth of research and the engaging way the story is told. They believe that if not for a significant flaw, the book could have been a classic. The narrative is compelling and offers valuable insights into the life of Joe Louis. However, the flaw is so debilitating that it overshadows the book's strengths, making it less impactful than it could have been.

Quick quotes

    If it were not for one dreadful, debilitating flaw, the book might have been a classic.

    There is much to admire in the book.

    The narrative is compelling and offers valuable insights.

The New York Times · 1985-10-29
positive 4.00

The biography provides a detailed account of Joe Louis's life and his impact on American society. It is a well-researched and engaging read that offers new perspectives on a historical figure.

This review highlights the book's thorough research and engaging narrative, providing a detailed account of Joe Louis's life and his impact on American society. The reviewer appreciates the new perspectives offered on a historical figure, making it a valuable read for those interested in sports history and social dynamics. The book is praised for its ability to bring a complex figure to life, offering insights into both his personal and public life.

Quick quotes

    A new biography of Joe Louis that provides a detailed account of his life.

    Offers new perspectives on a historical figure.

    A well-researched and engaging read.

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