John Davison Little Man, Big Heart

I was given this book as a present as I've known John for a number of years and was told it was good. It wasn't until I started reading that I realised just how good. It is an honest and gripping account of a truely remarkable life story that will appeal to all, not just boxing fans.

The Peoples' Champion (1/1 people found this helpful)

Without doubt this is one of the best books I've ever read, bar none. It's brutal, thrilling and I really couldn't put it down. I challenge anyone to start reading this book and be able to get any sleep. it's that good.

Fascinating and inspirational insight into a local boxing legend (1/1 people found this helpful)

Just finished reading this book, after it was highly recommended by the man himself. Found it captivating and fascinating to gain an insight into what made John Davison tick as a top boxer, but also as a human being. Made more realistic for me, as I live in the same area as John, and can understand the Newcastle lifestyle.

The chapters cover both triumph and tragedy, with a nice sprinkling of real Geordie humour. It made me howl with laughter with regard to one or two phrases. It also made me realize the depth of sheer determination and burning desire he had to achieve his goal to be the best.

Highly recommended for all boxing fans but also for anyone who likes a human spirit biography of the toughest type.

Champions Are Not Made in the Gyms.. (1/1 people found this helpful)

I bought this book last week after a review in the Newcastle Evening Chronicle which could not have been more complimentary.
I knew nothing of John Davisons career, unlike his obviously many fans, but I genuinly couldn't put this down. For those who can't be bothered to read the synopsis fully, his story is summarised thus:
* 25 year old tiny, rock hard geordie takes up amateur boxing to win some
trophies for an MFI cabinet cos he's on the dole and can;t affprd
ornaments.
* Tiny rock hard geordie blasts his way through loads of amateur stars
and becomes england number one within 12 months(!!!!)
* Tiny rock hard geordie turns pro a a rediculously late age and becomes
one of the most feared featherweights in world boxing as he chases a
world title shot.
* Tiny rock hard geordie eventually gets his chance at the age of 35
(buythe book to find out what happens next!!!)
I have to say, this book is beautifully written, hilarious in places, poignent in others, tear jerking yet uplifting as you come to understand just what it is that drives this guy on. There are quotes at the beginning of each chapter, ranging from The Greatest, Tyson and Rocky to Machiavelli, Michaelangelo and Shakespeare. There are some classic lines ('The whole world stopped when Ali climbed in the ring') and some hilarious scams more akin to del boy than a professional sportsman. The fight scenes are some of the best I have ever read and the finale, when it comes, completely blows you away.
A fantastic insight to the world of boxing from grassroots to the very top of the tree. A great way to spend a few nights chilling, although it makes you want to pull on some gloves and smack people in the face.
Enjoy.
Ricky O

Best book I've read this year! (2/2 people found this helpful)

It normally takes something a bit special for me to take the time to do one of these reviews but I didn't have to think twice about this one. I remember watching some of John's fights when I was younger and they really come to life inside these pages - you can practically feel every punch landing!

But even more than that this book lets you into the life of the man behind the gloves - you assume that life as a sporting hero is all plain sailing but there was so much more to John's story than the few minutes he was in the ring. That's why this will appeal even to those who've never even seen a punch thrown - you get to experience John's life first hand.

I think that's one of the reasons why I enjoyed it - the honesty - you get his story warts and all. If you'll pardon the pun he "pulls no punches" (boom boom) - you get the lows as well as the highs and all superbly written.

So anyway - hope this has helped make your mind up - I'd definately recomend it for anyone, non-boxing fans included.

John Davison Little Man, Big Heart

John Davison

Reader Reviews:

Riveting! (1/1 people found this helpful)

The Peoples' Champion (1/1 people found this helpful)

Fascinating and inspirational insight into a local boxing legend (1/1 people found this helpful)

Champions Are Not Made in the Gyms.. (1/1 people found this helpful)

Best book I've read this year! (2/2 people found this helpful)

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