Blows to the Head: How Boxing Changed My Mind

by Binnie Klein

A provocative tale of an unlikely contender and her midlife transformation through boxing.

206 pages, Hardcover

First published December 21, 2009

Reviews

[Teresa Pugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Blows to the Head: How Boxing Changed my Mind” is a delightful story chronicling Binnie Klein’s cathartic journey by way of boxing. Her sometimes hilarious conclusions, observations, and a sprinkling of Yiddish, will cause you to giggle out loud. She finds clarity in the ring, resulting in a new understanding and appreciation for her Jewish culture, family, fears, her dear bubbe, and, more importantly, herself. This shiksa often found herself thinking, “Binnie, that’s me, I know exactly what you mean.” Binnie is someone with whom you’d want to have lunch and just talk, and talk, and talk, she’s a real mensch. “Blows to the Head: How Boxing Changed my Mind” will give you a whole new perspective on boxing, middle age and the courage to pick up that weird stone.

[John · Rating 2 out of 5]

(no 50 of 2020)
(on the reading list from Lu's first-year seminar in 2019-20 - Boxing and American Culture)

update:
https://www.binnieklein.com/single-po...

[Lauren Walker · Rating 2 out of 5]

read for class. i hate boxing

[Susan Henderson]

An utterly fabulous memoir about an unathletic therapist who, at age 55, decides to take up boxing. The story addresses body image, aging, suppressed rage, confidence, and a fascinating history of Jewish boxers. It's funny, thoughtful, and engaging. Had no idea I'd love this book as much as I did!

[Traci]

This is Binnie's book about boxing, and I can't wait to read it!! :)

[Brian Slattery · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really nifty book, written in a style that suits the subject: sharp and smart.