The Prizefighter and the Playwright by Jay Tunney

The Prizefighter and the Playwright delves into the extraordinary relationship between Gene Tunney, the world heavyweight-boxing champion, and George Bernard Shaw, the renowned playwright. Despite their age difference and disparate backgrounds, the two men formed a deep and lasting friendship, revealing a side of both that is rarely seen. The book is enriched with never-before-published images from Tunney's family collection, offering a unique glimpse into their personal lives and the era they lived in. /n/n Author Jay R. Tunney, son of the famous fighter, weaves a beautifully crafted biography that evolved from the acclaimed BBC radio program The Master and the Boy. This book is not just a story of two famous men but also a fascinating look at their times, filled with surprises and revelations that will captivate fans of both Shaw and Tunney.

Reviews

HP Herald · 2023-06-12

disappointing 3.00

Despite the talented cast and direction, the script and production have shortcomings. The reviewer finds it falls short of being a knockout.

The reviewer acknowledges the talent of the three-person cast and the expert direction by Nick Sandys, but notes that both the script and the production have shortcomings. The reviewer feels that the play, based on the book, does not fully deliver on its potential. They highlight the need for a more substantial role for the supportive woman in the story to enhance the narrative. While the play has its moments, it ultimately falls short of being the knockout it could have been. The reviewer appreciates the effort but finds the execution lacking in certain areas.

Quick quotes

Both the script and the production have shortcomings, despite the talented three-person cast under the expert direction of Nick Sandys.

Based on the book 'The Prizefighter and the Playwright' by Jay R. Tunney, the play is a beautiful biographical look at their relationship.

The play is both a surprisingly bombastic piece that also imparts a subtle exchange between two famous men 40 years apart in age.

Chicago Reader · 2023-06-08

insightful 4.00

The book is noted for its focus on the friendship and conflicts over faith between the two men. It is considered a beautiful biographical look at their relationship.

Douglas Post's book, Shaw vs. Tunney, is a deep dive into the friendship and occasional conflicts between George Bernard Shaw and Gene Tunney. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to capture the essence of their relationship, including the nuances of their differing beliefs and personalities. The narrative is both insightful and engaging, offering readers a glimpse into the lives of these two remarkable men. The reviewer appreciates the book's biographical approach, which provides a comprehensive and nuanced portrait of their friendship. It's a compelling read that sheds light on the complexities of their relationship.

Quick quotes

Douglas Post's Shaw vs. Tunney focuses on the friendship (and conflict over faith) between playwright and prizefighter.

The play is written by Douglas Post and is a beautiful biographical look at their relationship.

Tunney finally delivers as a keenly felt portrait of a seemingly unlikely friendship between two men.

Goodreads · 2009-12-01

heartwarming 4.20

The book offers a unique perspective on the unlikely friendship between a boxer and a playwright. It is praised for its engaging narrative and insightful exploration of their relationship.

This book delves into the curious and heartwarming relationship between Gene Tunney, the prizefighter, and George Bernard Shaw, the playwright. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the narrative, which brings to light the human side of both men. The story is not just about their friendship but also about their personal struggles and triumphs. It's a compelling read that sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of these public figures. The reviewer finds the book to be both informative and emotionally resonant, making it a standout in the genre of biographical literature.

Quick quotes

The story of the boxer and the playwright has helped to put the soul back into an author who hid his humanity behind a screen of words.

It is a particularly engaging narrative that offers a unique perspective on the unlikely friendship between two iconic figures.

The book is a son's tribute to his father, written with a deep understanding and affection.

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