The Contender
The Contender
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1967
Book Brief
190
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • 1960s
1967
YA
13-18 years
Super Short Summary
The Contender by Robert Lipsyte, published in 1967, follows the journey of Alfred Brooks, a black teenager in Harlem who dreams of becoming a boxing champion as a means to escape the challenges posed by drug addiction and gang violence in his community. Readers might find themes involving drug addiction, gang violence, and physical violence to be particularly sensitive.
Challenging
Gritty
Inspirational
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
5,160 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Robert Lipsyte's novel, The Contender, earns praise for its authentic portrayal of a young man’s struggle to rise above adversity through boxing. Critics laud its realistic character development and compelling narrative. Some reviews note that the story can feel predictable, but its inspirational message and motivational themes resonate well with readers.
Who Should Read The Contender?
Readers who will enjoy Robert Lipsyte's The Contender are typically teens or young adults interested in sports fiction and stories of personal growth. Similar to S. E. Hinton's The Outsiders and Chris Crutcher's Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes, this novel appeals to those who appreciate narratives about overcoming adversity and finding one's path.
5,160 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
190
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • 1960s
1967
YA
13-18 years
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