Thrown

288 pages, 2014

Kerry Howley

Takeaways

Description

In this darkly funny work of literary nonfiction, a bookish young woman insinuates herself into the lives of two cage fighters—one a young prodigy, the other an aging journeyman.

Acclaimed essayist Kerry Howley follows these men for three years through the bloody world of mixed martial arts as they starve themselves, break bones, fail their families, and form new ones in the quest to rise from remote Midwestern fairgrounds to packed Vegas arenas.

With penetrating intelligence and wry humor, Howley exposes the profundities and absurdities of this American subculture.

Exploring the World of MMA

Thrown by Kerry Howley offers a deep look into the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). It's not just about the fights, but also the dedication, discipline, and sacrifices the fighters make. It's a great read if you're interested in the behind-the-scenes of this intense sport.

The Power of Passion

Howley's book shows us the power of passion. The fighters she follows are driven by their love for the sport, despite the physical and emotional toll it takes. It's a reminder that passion can be a powerful motivator in any field.

The Role of the Observer

In Thrown, the author takes on the role of an observer, immersing herself in the lives of two fighters. This unique perspective allows us to see the world of MMA from a different angle. It's a fascinating exploration of the observer's role in storytelling.

The Human Side of Fighters

Kerry Howley doesn't just focus on the sport, she also digs into the personal lives of the fighters. She shows us their human side, their struggles, and their triumphs. It's a reminder that behind every athlete, there's a personal story.

The Art of Storytelling

Thrown is not just a book about MMA, it's also a masterclass in storytelling. Howley's writing is engaging, vivid, and full of detail. If you're interested in writing or storytelling, you'll find a lot to learn from this book.

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Quotes 3

Thrown is a philosophical meditation on the body and the spirit, a serious endeavor that never takes itself too seriously. It's a wild, weird, wonderful book.

Maggie Nelson - American Writer, Poet

Thrown is a book about the body that is very much about the mind. It's a book about fighting that is very much about love. It's a book about violence that is very much about grace.

John D'Agata - Essayist, Academic

Thrown is a book about the body that is very much about the mind. It's a book about fighting that is very much about love. It's a book about violence that is very much about grace.