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Girls Can't Hit
A funny, feminist teen story about knowing when to train . . . and when to fight.
Fleur Waters never takes anything seriously - until she turns up at her local boxing club one day, just to prove a point. She's the only girl there, and the warm-up alone is exhausting . . . but the workout gives her an escape from home and school, and when she lands her first uppercut on a punching bag she feels a rare glow of satisfaction. So she goes back the next week, determined to improve.
Fleur's overprotective mum can't abide the idea of her entering a boxing ring, why won't she join her pilates class instead? Her friends don't get it either and even her boyfriend, 'Prince' George, seems concerned by her growing muscles and appetite - but it's Fleur's body, Fleur's life, so she digs her heels in and carries on with her training. When she finally makes it into the ring, her friends and family show their support and Fleur realises that sometimes in life it's better to drop your guard and take a wild swing!
Fleur Waters never takes anything seriously - until she turns up at her local boxing club one day, just to prove a point. She's the only girl there, and the warm-up alone is exhausting . . . but the workout gives her an escape from home and school, and when she lands her first uppercut on a punching bag she feels a rare glow of satisfaction. So she goes back the next week, determined to improve.
Fleur's overprotective mum can't abide the idea of her entering a boxing ring, why won't she join her pilates class instead? Her friends don't get it either and even her boyfriend, 'Prince' George, seems concerned by her growing muscles and appetite - but it's Fleur's body, Fleur's life, so she digs her heels in and carries on with her training. When she finally makes it into the ring, her friends and family show their support and Fleur realises that sometimes in life it's better to drop your guard and take a wild swing!
272 pages, Hardcover
First published April 18, 2017
About the author
T.S. Easton
13 books57 followersT. S. Easton is an experienced author of fiction for all ages and has had more than a dozen books published. He has written under a number of different pseudonyms in a variety of genres. Subjects include vampires, pirates, pandemics and teenage agony aunts (not all in the same book). He lives in Surrey with his wife and three children and in his spare time works as a Production Manager for a UK publisher. BOYS DON'T KNIT is his first novel for Hot Key Books, and you can find out more about him at https://www.hotkeybooks.com or on his website www.tomeaston.co.uk Follow hin on Twitter: @TomEaston
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
April 29, 2018
I'd trained hard too. Bonita may have thought I was some useless piece of dental floss, who'd never worked hard for anything, but she was wrong. I'd run, I'd cycled, I'd lifted weights over and over until I hated the sight of the damn things.
* * * *
4 / 5
Girls Can't Hit is a lovely, emotional, and heart warming story about boxing, friendship, family relationships, and knowing when to fight. Fleur Waters takes up boxing to prove a point and ends up loving it, despite everyone trying to stand in her way. It's about Fleur changing as a person, growing into someone she never thought that she could be and finding she loves it. Only problem is her mother hates her hobby, her boyfriend thinks she's getting too masculine, and her friends think she's becoming too distant. Awkward.
I must admit that I wasn't overly fond of the title - I get that's it is supposed to be satirical and ironic, but I rather fear that girls will be put off reading it. I was also caught off-guard by the opening scenes; the language and writing style seemed like it was aimed at a younger audience than I was expecting (possibly my fault for not examining the back cover closely enough), but that was no big deal. Despite the younger target audience, I found Girls Can't Hit an absolute page-turner, finishing it in under a day! The real draw here is Fleur and her narrative arc.
"I'm starving," I said. "I've been exercising a lot lately."
"Maybe you need to cut down a little on the exercise," George said. I blinked at him. Has anyone ever said that to anyone in the world before?
Fleur as a narrator is wonderful. She's funny, her struggles are genuine, and she's likeable. Her relationship with her parents is particularly well written; as she grows fitter she gets closer to her father, they go cycling together and to the bike shop, she takes up running and he is proud of her progress. On the other hand, her mother is infuriatingly protective - at first it seems like this is out of her feeling like boxing isn't a suitable sport for women, but then we get a little tear-jerker of a scene where we find out why she doesn't want Fleur to box. But I also really empathised with Fleur: she has a boyfriend George, prim and proper who thinks she's getting too muscular and eating too much, and a mother who won't support her new hobby. It's infuriating to read.
And part of me felt as though it was done now. I'd come along, I'd gone with it, and I'd even done okay. I didn't need to come back again. I could leave with my head held high.
Then there's her two best friends Blossom, hardcore radical feminist who is portrayed in an amusing but serious way ("Of course they'll notice you're girls." "We are going to be swishing swords," Blossom said. "Not twirling tampons."), and Pip, a slightly scatty, weedy boy that can't drive properly to save his life. They've got this really lovely trio friendship dynamic going on. Blossom is the one who introduces Fleur to the boxing club as part of making a point about how women can do real boxing, not just boxercise. It's here that the story really starts to take off and I started rooting for Fleur. There's nothing particularly surprising or innovative about the plot, but it's well-written, emotional and engaging.
"It's going too far, Fleur," she replied. "I see you eating whey protein and kissing your biceps. I see you out-cycling your father and clanking weights at all hours. I see you wearing boxing boots to a mess ball."
Being a female martial artist myself (I did taekwondo as a teenager and took up Jiu Jitsu at university where, very fortunately, our club has an excellent male:female ratio) I empathised a lot with Fleur and her entering a male-dominated sport. I think Easton perfectly captured the sort of experience that I have occasionally had: men don't tend to be rude to you or patronising (with a few exceptions), but instead you get enveloped in this kind of male "aura" where they think it is perfectly acceptable to make crass and sexist jokes around you. I, like Fleur, can take a joke, but it sometimes reaches that point where you are uncomfortable but don't want to rock the boat. There's also usually a fair amount of drinking culture, which Easton included and tackled well.
On the boxing aspect itself, I don't know anything in particular about boxing so I can't comment on the accuracy of the depiction. I do think Fleur puts on a lot of weight and muscle mass in an unrealistic amount of time and missed out on a couple of particular quirks that, in my experience and those I know at least, female martial artists tend to get. For example, a lot of forearm, hand, and leg bruises that tend to lead to concerned questions and offers of support from people (I'm very glad they do this, as now I know that if I am ever in a violent situation, people will and do offer their help). Fleur trains once or twice a week for an hour at a time - that's not a lot at all particularly regarding her spike in fitness and appetite, but obviously that's a very minor quibble.
"Girls don't need to be sporty any more than they need to be princesses. You don't get to decide what I should be."
"So what are you?" She asked. "What exactly are you?"
Bonita, the closest person Fleur had to an antagonist, needed more fleshing out at the start. She's a seriously competitive hockey player that seems to dislike Fleur because she can't be bothered in PE lessons. But then she and a couple of her friends join the boxing club - why? Seemingly out of spite. I didn't really get the motivation here. But particularly towards the end of the book, Bonita gets a lot more backstory and depth, her character really coming into its own. There's a couple of moments where Fleur makes assumptions about Bonita which get turned on her head. It's here where I really started to empathise with Bonita too - she's not typically attractive, she's competitive, and seems to love to fight. She becomes a nice contrast to Fleur, making her realise the advantages she's got in life.
A really lovely recurring theme is the Battle of Hastings 1066, Normans versus Saxons. Fleur, Blossom, and Pip work at a castle dressing up, giving tours, and reenacting in mock battles. They all always play Saxons and Easton uses this as a bizarre and charming metaphor throughout the book. I liked the way he wove these little references to British history with Fleur's story of developing as a boxer. He also makes reenacting battles sound really fun!
Overall, Girls Can't Hit is a great little novel that really inspired me to hike up my own training and healthy eating regimen! Even if you don't much like boxing, you might surprise yourself with this one.
My thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for an ARC of this book.
Read this review and more on my blog: https://atlasrisingbooks.wordpress.co...
* * * *
4 / 5
Girls Can't Hit is a lovely, emotional, and heart warming story about boxing, friendship, family relationships, and knowing when to fight. Fleur Waters takes up boxing to prove a point and ends up loving it, despite everyone trying to stand in her way. It's about Fleur changing as a person, growing into someone she never thought that she could be and finding she loves it. Only problem is her mother hates her hobby, her boyfriend thinks she's getting too masculine, and her friends think she's becoming too distant. Awkward.
I must admit that I wasn't overly fond of the title - I get that's it is supposed to be satirical and ironic, but I rather fear that girls will be put off reading it. I was also caught off-guard by the opening scenes; the language and writing style seemed like it was aimed at a younger audience than I was expecting (possibly my fault for not examining the back cover closely enough), but that was no big deal. Despite the younger target audience, I found Girls Can't Hit an absolute page-turner, finishing it in under a day! The real draw here is Fleur and her narrative arc.
"I'm starving," I said. "I've been exercising a lot lately."
"Maybe you need to cut down a little on the exercise," George said. I blinked at him. Has anyone ever said that to anyone in the world before?
Fleur as a narrator is wonderful. She's funny, her struggles are genuine, and she's likeable. Her relationship with her parents is particularly well written; as she grows fitter she gets closer to her father, they go cycling together and to the bike shop, she takes up running and he is proud of her progress. On the other hand, her mother is infuriatingly protective - at first it seems like this is out of her feeling like boxing isn't a suitable sport for women, but then we get a little tear-jerker of a scene where we find out why she doesn't want Fleur to box. But I also really empathised with Fleur: she has a boyfriend George, prim and proper who thinks she's getting too muscular and eating too much, and a mother who won't support her new hobby. It's infuriating to read.
And part of me felt as though it was done now. I'd come along, I'd gone with it, and I'd even done okay. I didn't need to come back again. I could leave with my head held high.
Then there's her two best friends Blossom, hardcore radical feminist who is portrayed in an amusing but serious way ("Of course they'll notice you're girls." "We are going to be swishing swords," Blossom said. "Not twirling tampons."), and Pip, a slightly scatty, weedy boy that can't drive properly to save his life. They've got this really lovely trio friendship dynamic going on. Blossom is the one who introduces Fleur to the boxing club as part of making a point about how women can do real boxing, not just boxercise. It's here that the story really starts to take off and I started rooting for Fleur. There's nothing particularly surprising or innovative about the plot, but it's well-written, emotional and engaging.
"It's going too far, Fleur," she replied. "I see you eating whey protein and kissing your biceps. I see you out-cycling your father and clanking weights at all hours. I see you wearing boxing boots to a mess ball."
Being a female martial artist myself (I did taekwondo as a teenager and took up Jiu Jitsu at university where, very fortunately, our club has an excellent male:female ratio) I empathised a lot with Fleur and her entering a male-dominated sport. I think Easton perfectly captured the sort of experience that I have occasionally had: men don't tend to be rude to you or patronising (with a few exceptions), but instead you get enveloped in this kind of male "aura" where they think it is perfectly acceptable to make crass and sexist jokes around you. I, like Fleur, can take a joke, but it sometimes reaches that point where you are uncomfortable but don't want to rock the boat. There's also usually a fair amount of drinking culture, which Easton included and tackled well.
On the boxing aspect itself, I don't know anything in particular about boxing so I can't comment on the accuracy of the depiction. I do think Fleur puts on a lot of weight and muscle mass in an unrealistic amount of time and missed out on a couple of particular quirks that, in my experience and those I know at least, female martial artists tend to get. For example, a lot of forearm, hand, and leg bruises that tend to lead to concerned questions and offers of support from people (I'm very glad they do this, as now I know that if I am ever in a violent situation, people will and do offer their help). Fleur trains once or twice a week for an hour at a time - that's not a lot at all particularly regarding her spike in fitness and appetite, but obviously that's a very minor quibble.
"Girls don't need to be sporty any more than they need to be princesses. You don't get to decide what I should be."
"So what are you?" She asked. "What exactly are you?"
Bonita, the closest person Fleur had to an antagonist, needed more fleshing out at the start. She's a seriously competitive hockey player that seems to dislike Fleur because she can't be bothered in PE lessons. But then she and a couple of her friends join the boxing club - why? Seemingly out of spite. I didn't really get the motivation here. But particularly towards the end of the book, Bonita gets a lot more backstory and depth, her character really coming into its own. There's a couple of moments where Fleur makes assumptions about Bonita which get turned on her head. It's here where I really started to empathise with Bonita too - she's not typically attractive, she's competitive, and seems to love to fight. She becomes a nice contrast to Fleur, making her realise the advantages she's got in life.
A really lovely recurring theme is the Battle of Hastings 1066, Normans versus Saxons. Fleur, Blossom, and Pip work at a castle dressing up, giving tours, and reenacting in mock battles. They all always play Saxons and Easton uses this as a bizarre and charming metaphor throughout the book. I liked the way he wove these little references to British history with Fleur's story of developing as a boxer. He also makes reenacting battles sound really fun!
Overall, Girls Can't Hit is a great little novel that really inspired me to hike up my own training and healthy eating regimen! Even if you don't much like boxing, you might surprise yourself with this one.
My thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for an ARC of this book.
Read this review and more on my blog: https://atlasrisingbooks.wordpress.co...
July 10, 2023
3.5 ⭐
Całkiem przyjemna historyjka, ale powiedzmy sobie szczerze: nie lubię, kiedy ktoś szufladkuje, że dziewczyny nie mogą robić tego, bo to męskie, a faceci nie mogą robić tego, bo babskie. Strasznie mnie to wkurza, a to w końcu jest sedno tej książki - że boks to męski sport i dlaczego nasza bohaterka w ogóle to robi? Wieszają się na to o nią przyjaciele, wieszają się o nią o to rodzice (brak próby zrozumienia własnej córki, tylko wręcz wykrzykiwanie jej, że zrobi sobie krzywdę to już w ogóle trigger), poniekąd nawet koledzy z klubu, choć ci najszybciej wyciągnęli do niej dłoń.
W tej książce wiele rzeczy woła o pomstę do nieba i brakuje najprostszej komunikacji. Ostatecznie wiadomo - wszystko wchodzi dobrze i można się wzruszyć, ale jak pomyślisz o tym po czasie to jednak nie do końca dobrze to wyszło. Niezaprzeczalny plus, że przez ta historię się płynie, ale dla wielu może być po prostu nie do przejścia i ja to rozumiem. Nie wiem, czy jakbym była na miejscu bohaterki i co chwilę własny trener mówił mi, że za mało się staram, że ciągle robię coś źle, to czy nie rzuciłabym tego w cholerę, zamiast jak ona jeszcze bardziej się starać.
Całkiem przyjemna historyjka, ale powiedzmy sobie szczerze: nie lubię, kiedy ktoś szufladkuje, że dziewczyny nie mogą robić tego, bo to męskie, a faceci nie mogą robić tego, bo babskie. Strasznie mnie to wkurza, a to w końcu jest sedno tej książki - że boks to męski sport i dlaczego nasza bohaterka w ogóle to robi? Wieszają się na to o nią przyjaciele, wieszają się o nią o to rodzice (brak próby zrozumienia własnej córki, tylko wręcz wykrzykiwanie jej, że zrobi sobie krzywdę to już w ogóle trigger), poniekąd nawet koledzy z klubu, choć ci najszybciej wyciągnęli do niej dłoń.
W tej książce wiele rzeczy woła o pomstę do nieba i brakuje najprostszej komunikacji. Ostatecznie wiadomo - wszystko wchodzi dobrze i można się wzruszyć, ale jak pomyślisz o tym po czasie to jednak nie do końca dobrze to wyszło. Niezaprzeczalny plus, że przez ta historię się płynie, ale dla wielu może być po prostu nie do przejścia i ja to rozumiem. Nie wiem, czy jakbym była na miejscu bohaterki i co chwilę własny trener mówił mi, że za mało się staram, że ciągle robię coś źle, to czy nie rzuciłabym tego w cholerę, zamiast jak ona jeszcze bardziej się starać.
May 22, 2018
I was super excited for this book because, hello! Feminist story about a girl who, despite external protests, becomes a boxer? But unfortunately the execution of this premise made it a 2.5 star read for me, rounded down to 2 because I just don’t get Fleur’s humor. This book is also a revamp, as it was published last year already, so check out the cute new cover!
My main gripe with Girls Can’t Hit was the narrative and CONSTANT push of “feminism this! Feminism that!” The writing was so obvious with this theme, and I couldn’t help but feel like it was pushed on me at times. Fleur was an okay character, but her struggles and privilege weren’t really explored in a way that matched the book’s message. Also, all the British jokes went over my head. I didn’t really understand the importance of the Battle (such as the reenactments and Normans vs Saxons ideal) so I kind of skimmed over those. Not like I was missing much, though. There were comparisons between the two and biases that I didn’t understand, which ultimately didn’t matter anyway. Both were colonizers, sooo.
“I think sometimes I just get bored with doing the sensible thing and so I end up doing something idiotic just to see what happens.”
The plot is galvanized when Fleur takes up boxing as a way to get fit and basically prove her friends and family wrong. However, boxing also gives her an appetite and defined muscles that people don’t appreciate, such as her crusty white boyfriend. One of the larger conflicts is the antagonistic relationship Fleur has with a girl in her year (feminism =/= girl on girl hate??) that, in my opinion, was not resolved well. Add to the fact that even though Fleur was constantly on the defensive about her gender, and, well, you could say I wasn’t her biggest fan.
I’m not surprised that this book was written by a man, because Fleur’s narrative just didn’t FEEL right. She and her feminist girl friend were always quick to accuse while ignoring certain things. The actions just didn’t fit the message. Fleur gets saved by this dude, a love interest, and the first thing she says when he asks what she was doing in the alley area was “Why? Is it because I’m a girl?” Cue record scratch. Does the author really think that girls in high school/university talk and think like that? This happens so many times too! It completely baffles me to think that this kind of accusation isn’t called out and is appropriate for a feminist narrative. It honestly makes Fleur and her friends look very superficial and one-sided. Additionally, Fleur’s friend Blossom is written as a cardboard cut-out feminist whose only mission in life is to fight the patriarchy. “Let’s go hold up signs! Let’s go to this boxing club to protest its divisive flier!” Etc. Doesn’t she… have any other interests? Nah. Who needs that.
The love interest was completely useless to the plot and Fleur’s character growth. (Also the random fact that he was Syrian. Congrats Fleur! You have all your bases covered as a feminist. It’s not like he’s the token character or anything, he’s just way more ‘exotic’ than your crusty ex-boyfriend.) The important messages of this book are just glossed over by how superficial the characters’ actions and motives are. I love how Fleur can jab on and on about what girls can/can’t do, while calling places “a dump,” - places like her girl enemy’s house - and going off about Tarik’s (the love interest’s) beautiful, glistening “olive” skin. Intersectionality much?
“‘Fleur, you are an excellent feminist. You’ve just taken a different route than me. Or anyone else. But that’s okay. There are thousands of different ways to be a feminist. And the great thing is, you get to choose which way works for you.’”
I think there was potential to this story, but the execution just did not do it. I appreciated Fleur’s struggles in becoming a successful boxer and the awesome research she did on Women’s Boxing, but the rest of the narrative was forgettable and one-dimensional. I really feel like some of her and Blossom’s dialogue and actions should have been called out on too, which no one really does. They’re amazing because they try their hardest to fight for women’s rights and and and - and what? Remain antagonistic towards the stereotypical sport-y girl who (I believe) is POC? Stay oblivious to their privilege? Think that every single comment is an attack on their gender? I’m not here for that kind of feminism.
My main gripe with Girls Can’t Hit was the narrative and CONSTANT push of “feminism this! Feminism that!” The writing was so obvious with this theme, and I couldn’t help but feel like it was pushed on me at times. Fleur was an okay character, but her struggles and privilege weren’t really explored in a way that matched the book’s message. Also, all the British jokes went over my head. I didn’t really understand the importance of the Battle (such as the reenactments and Normans vs Saxons ideal) so I kind of skimmed over those. Not like I was missing much, though. There were comparisons between the two and biases that I didn’t understand, which ultimately didn’t matter anyway. Both were colonizers, sooo.
“I think sometimes I just get bored with doing the sensible thing and so I end up doing something idiotic just to see what happens.”
The plot is galvanized when Fleur takes up boxing as a way to get fit and basically prove her friends and family wrong. However, boxing also gives her an appetite and defined muscles that people don’t appreciate, such as her crusty white boyfriend. One of the larger conflicts is the antagonistic relationship Fleur has with a girl in her year (feminism =/= girl on girl hate??) that, in my opinion, was not resolved well. Add to the fact that even though Fleur was constantly on the defensive about her gender, and, well, you could say I wasn’t her biggest fan.
I’m not surprised that this book was written by a man, because Fleur’s narrative just didn’t FEEL right. She and her feminist girl friend were always quick to accuse while ignoring certain things. The actions just didn’t fit the message. Fleur gets saved by this dude, a love interest, and the first thing she says when he asks what she was doing in the alley area was “Why? Is it because I’m a girl?” Cue record scratch. Does the author really think that girls in high school/university talk and think like that? This happens so many times too! It completely baffles me to think that this kind of accusation isn’t called out and is appropriate for a feminist narrative. It honestly makes Fleur and her friends look very superficial and one-sided. Additionally, Fleur’s friend Blossom is written as a cardboard cut-out feminist whose only mission in life is to fight the patriarchy. “Let’s go hold up signs! Let’s go to this boxing club to protest its divisive flier!” Etc. Doesn’t she… have any other interests? Nah. Who needs that.
The love interest was completely useless to the plot and Fleur’s character growth. (Also the random fact that he was Syrian. Congrats Fleur! You have all your bases covered as a feminist. It’s not like he’s the token character or anything, he’s just way more ‘exotic’ than your crusty ex-boyfriend.) The important messages of this book are just glossed over by how superficial the characters’ actions and motives are. I love how Fleur can jab on and on about what girls can/can’t do, while calling places “a dump,” - places like her girl enemy’s house - and going off about Tarik’s (the love interest’s) beautiful, glistening “olive” skin. Intersectionality much?
“‘Fleur, you are an excellent feminist. You’ve just taken a different route than me. Or anyone else. But that’s okay. There are thousands of different ways to be a feminist. And the great thing is, you get to choose which way works for you.’”
I think there was potential to this story, but the execution just did not do it. I appreciated Fleur’s struggles in becoming a successful boxer and the awesome research she did on Women’s Boxing, but the rest of the narrative was forgettable and one-dimensional. I really feel like some of her and Blossom’s dialogue and actions should have been called out on too, which no one really does. They’re amazing because they try their hardest to fight for women’s rights and and and - and what? Remain antagonistic towards the stereotypical sport-y girl who (I believe) is POC? Stay oblivious to their privilege? Think that every single comment is an attack on their gender? I’m not here for that kind of feminism.
April 20, 2017
Laugh-out-loud funny, not just for boxing fans, a warm and witty YA novel
I'm not a boxing fan, but I adored this from first page to last. It helped pass a few hours of a hospital confinement (with newborn night feeds), and thoroughly entertained.
This is the story of a rather typical British teen, not particularly sporty, does well enough in school, no particular aspirations. Fleur follows her best friend on feminist crusades, supporting her as she battles to get women allowed to boxing classes. Taking part in one herself, though unfit and exhausted, Fleur finds enough motivation from it to return. Again and again.
She changes her diet, starts exercising, finds a real interest and passion for boxing. Despite her mum's fears about the dangers, and her boyfriend's dislike of her new physique, she finds a talent and joy in her new hobby.
This was just wonderful. It's not exactly a female Rocky, but of course, this and other famous boxing films get mentioned quite a lot. Fleur is an everygirl, tho she and her two best friends (who, living near Hastings, like to take part in Battle reenactments at weekends) are a hilarious threesome and very close-knit and a pleasure to read about. Fleur's mum has her own reasons for her overprotective nature, and she and Dad's arguments had me spluttering drinks.
Easton writes humour well into the book. It feels natural as well, Fleur is enjoyably amusing. When attending the boxing club to protest its anti-feminist policies, they are offered a snack...
'"You take their biscuits and then they've got you.'
'It's not some gateway drug to the patriarchy,' I said. 'It's a custard cream.'"
The feminist angle isn't done to death, but female equality is featured in the story significantly - Fleur changes as her interest in boxing grows, which affects her own body confidence (and shape), and how other people see her. It's fascinating to see the various opinions - from other teenagers on the street treating her differently, to her boyfriend's disapproval, and unusual conversations with other young women that she wouldn't otherwise have had.
Blossom, the best friend, could star in her own novel. I loved their film nights, Fleur selecting a rom-com, Blossom selecting a three hour Japanese film about soy fields. She's brilliantly funny herself:
"Wait... you're telling me a man is asking you to put on weight? Without impregnating you first?"
Great story, loved the training sessions and watching Fleur become enamoured of the sport, and the eventual Rocky-like showdown with her own personal demon (aka a school enemy).
A great read to empower young women. Very funny, with some wonderful characters - would love a sequel or further adventures of the characters.
With thanks to Netgalley for the advance e-copy.
I'm not a boxing fan, but I adored this from first page to last. It helped pass a few hours of a hospital confinement (with newborn night feeds), and thoroughly entertained.
This is the story of a rather typical British teen, not particularly sporty, does well enough in school, no particular aspirations. Fleur follows her best friend on feminist crusades, supporting her as she battles to get women allowed to boxing classes. Taking part in one herself, though unfit and exhausted, Fleur finds enough motivation from it to return. Again and again.
She changes her diet, starts exercising, finds a real interest and passion for boxing. Despite her mum's fears about the dangers, and her boyfriend's dislike of her new physique, she finds a talent and joy in her new hobby.
This was just wonderful. It's not exactly a female Rocky, but of course, this and other famous boxing films get mentioned quite a lot. Fleur is an everygirl, tho she and her two best friends (who, living near Hastings, like to take part in Battle reenactments at weekends) are a hilarious threesome and very close-knit and a pleasure to read about. Fleur's mum has her own reasons for her overprotective nature, and she and Dad's arguments had me spluttering drinks.
Easton writes humour well into the book. It feels natural as well, Fleur is enjoyably amusing. When attending the boxing club to protest its anti-feminist policies, they are offered a snack...
'"You take their biscuits and then they've got you.'
'It's not some gateway drug to the patriarchy,' I said. 'It's a custard cream.'"
The feminist angle isn't done to death, but female equality is featured in the story significantly - Fleur changes as her interest in boxing grows, which affects her own body confidence (and shape), and how other people see her. It's fascinating to see the various opinions - from other teenagers on the street treating her differently, to her boyfriend's disapproval, and unusual conversations with other young women that she wouldn't otherwise have had.
Blossom, the best friend, could star in her own novel. I loved their film nights, Fleur selecting a rom-com, Blossom selecting a three hour Japanese film about soy fields. She's brilliantly funny herself:
"Wait... you're telling me a man is asking you to put on weight? Without impregnating you first?"
Great story, loved the training sessions and watching Fleur become enamoured of the sport, and the eventual Rocky-like showdown with her own personal demon (aka a school enemy).
A great read to empower young women. Very funny, with some wonderful characters - would love a sequel or further adventures of the characters.
With thanks to Netgalley for the advance e-copy.
September 11, 2023
The back of this book promises feminism, funny, boxing, and Saxons, but unfortunately you'll only find two of those things here.
Girls Can't Hit follows 16 year old Fleur, who whilst studying during her first year of A-Levels happens upon a poster advertising boxing at a local gym. With the boxing classes being segregated by gender, Fleur and her friend go to the gym in protest. From then, Fleur ends up signing up in order to prove a point and discovers that she actually really enjoys boxing.
There is a good story here, somewhere, but it's hidden under some elements that I personally felt could have been improved upon. Interspersed throughout are Saxon and Norman battle reenactments which don't quite land amongst the boxing practices and the main storyline. It was quite confusing as to why a bunch of teenagers were so invested and it made it hard for me to get into.
The romances featured in this book also all fell flat for me. The main relationship between Fleur and her 19 year old boyfriend came across as somewhat problematic. This is a man who is training for the navy and has already finished with school and college. It is also revealed that they got together whilst Fleur was in high school and the age difference did not sit right with me. The difference in their maturity levels and their interactions initially made me think that Fleur was a lot younger than 16 and so I was not invested in their relationship at all. For a long term relationship, we never really saw them express any love for each other and so their date nights and interactions took away from other bits of the book that were good.
For the first 50 or so pages the tone of the book seemed off to me and I initially thought it was a middle grade book, but this improved somewhat and felt more like a teen was the MC as the narrative was further established.
There are a lot of misogynistic jokes in this book as well that aren't adequately called out by the so called feminists in this book. Honestly it just made me roll my eyes but I'm aware that there are people like this out in the world so this did feel somewhat realistic.
A girl exploring what she likes and trying to prove herself in a male dominated space actually worked for me, but at times it felt so surface level that I just wish we had more. I came away from the book not entirely knowing who Fleur was, just that she liked to box.
Overall I think the plot of the book needed tightening a bit more and the MC having a little more depth for this to fully work for me, but I would be interested to see what current works by this author are like.
Girls Can't Hit follows 16 year old Fleur, who whilst studying during her first year of A-Levels happens upon a poster advertising boxing at a local gym. With the boxing classes being segregated by gender, Fleur and her friend go to the gym in protest. From then, Fleur ends up signing up in order to prove a point and discovers that she actually really enjoys boxing.
There is a good story here, somewhere, but it's hidden under some elements that I personally felt could have been improved upon. Interspersed throughout are Saxon and Norman battle reenactments which don't quite land amongst the boxing practices and the main storyline. It was quite confusing as to why a bunch of teenagers were so invested and it made it hard for me to get into.
The romances featured in this book also all fell flat for me. The main relationship between Fleur and her 19 year old boyfriend came across as somewhat problematic. This is a man who is training for the navy and has already finished with school and college. It is also revealed that they got together whilst Fleur was in high school and the age difference did not sit right with me. The difference in their maturity levels and their interactions initially made me think that Fleur was a lot younger than 16 and so I was not invested in their relationship at all. For a long term relationship, we never really saw them express any love for each other and so their date nights and interactions took away from other bits of the book that were good.
For the first 50 or so pages the tone of the book seemed off to me and I initially thought it was a middle grade book, but this improved somewhat and felt more like a teen was the MC as the narrative was further established.
There are a lot of misogynistic jokes in this book as well that aren't adequately called out by the so called feminists in this book. Honestly it just made me roll my eyes but I'm aware that there are people like this out in the world so this did feel somewhat realistic.
A girl exploring what she likes and trying to prove herself in a male dominated space actually worked for me, but at times it felt so surface level that I just wish we had more. I came away from the book not entirely knowing who Fleur was, just that she liked to box.
Overall I think the plot of the book needed tightening a bit more and the MC having a little more depth for this to fully work for me, but I would be interested to see what current works by this author are like.
June 6, 2023
TW:zaburzenia odżywania. Dla mnie, jako osoby która w przeszłości zmagała się z tymi zaburzeniami ciagle powtarzanie słowa „kalorie” „przytycie” „waga” „masa” było naprawdę uciążliwe i czułam się niekomfortowo. Nie polecam osobom, które są wrażliwe na tym punkcie 😕
April 26, 2017
Girls Can’t Hit’ is the third book I’ve read by T.S Easton and I think my favourite one yet. The story centres around a teenager called Fleur who gets bitten by the boxing bug and soon finds herself itching to get inside the ring.
I found that the story started quite slowly and initially I wasn’t sure if it was going to be my kind of book. The first few chapters focused on Fleur and her friends Pip and Blossom who all live in a small village near to the site of the Battle of Hastings. They spend their Saturdays dressed as Saxon peasants, talking to tourists about the Battle and the history of the site. Although the start was slow, what really got me hooked was when Fleur discovers a local boxing club. What starts initially as a protest against the division between men and women’s’ only boxing nights, turns into a real passion for Fleur.
I loved seeing how Fleur channels all of her time and energy into her new hobby. She starts cycling with her Dad, she lifts weights, she trains hard and she eats like she’s never eaten before! Although I’ve never boxed, I do run and I know the discipline it takes to train and get yourself into physical shape. Fleur’s newfound love of boxing isn’t embraced by everyone though and she finds herself at odds with her Mum and at times her friends, over the amount of time she is spending on it.
There is an underlying message about feminism and equal rights in the book, but personally, what really struck a chord with me, was how boxing makes Fleur more confident and ultimately improves her relationships with those close to her. She has a fractious relationship with her Mum which takes a different turn near the end of the story, her Dad loves getting to spend time with her on their bikes and her friends gradually begin to see a new side of her. There’s also Tarik, a handsome boxer at the club, who definitely catches Fleur’s eye.
This turned out to be a brilliantly entertaining read which at times made me laugh out loud. I’d love a follow-up book all about what happens to Fleur next.
I found that the story started quite slowly and initially I wasn’t sure if it was going to be my kind of book. The first few chapters focused on Fleur and her friends Pip and Blossom who all live in a small village near to the site of the Battle of Hastings. They spend their Saturdays dressed as Saxon peasants, talking to tourists about the Battle and the history of the site. Although the start was slow, what really got me hooked was when Fleur discovers a local boxing club. What starts initially as a protest against the division between men and women’s’ only boxing nights, turns into a real passion for Fleur.
I loved seeing how Fleur channels all of her time and energy into her new hobby. She starts cycling with her Dad, she lifts weights, she trains hard and she eats like she’s never eaten before! Although I’ve never boxed, I do run and I know the discipline it takes to train and get yourself into physical shape. Fleur’s newfound love of boxing isn’t embraced by everyone though and she finds herself at odds with her Mum and at times her friends, over the amount of time she is spending on it.
There is an underlying message about feminism and equal rights in the book, but personally, what really struck a chord with me, was how boxing makes Fleur more confident and ultimately improves her relationships with those close to her. She has a fractious relationship with her Mum which takes a different turn near the end of the story, her Dad loves getting to spend time with her on their bikes and her friends gradually begin to see a new side of her. There’s also Tarik, a handsome boxer at the club, who definitely catches Fleur’s eye.
This turned out to be a brilliantly entertaining read which at times made me laugh out loud. I’d love a follow-up book all about what happens to Fleur next.
May 30, 2017
I have a couple of books by this author waiting to be read, but when I saw Girls Can't Hit on NetGalley and had to give it a try. When I began reading I didn't realise it was part of a series, and thought it was a stand alone, thankfully nothing was mentioned about the previous books so this one can be read as a stand alone, and definitely a step in the right direction towards the previous books,
The minute I began reading Girls Can't Hit I was hooked, I fell in love with the writing and the characters, and I really needed to know how Fleur would get on in this new world of boxing.
Fleur, Blossom, and Pip are best of friends, and they all have thier own unique personalities and beliefs. It's thanks to Blossoms belief that this trio find themselves at the boxing club, making a stand for women's rights and thier right to be included in the mens boxing club. Fleur soon finds herself signing up to join, and what started out as a way to prove a point soon turn into a hobby. But can Fleur balance her new life with her old one, or will everything fall apart.
I loved Fleur immediately, for her determination, for her belief in herself, and as the book progresses, for her positive attitude about her body and herself. Fleur goes through a lot of changes and difficult times throughout this book. She is faced with losing time with her friends, a unsupportive boyfriend who doesn't like this new Fleur, parents who don't want her to box, and initial unwariness for joining the boy boxing team. She also faces bullies every day of school who are determined to make her life hell, especially during P.E. But she faces each battle head on, and although there are tears, and sweat, she gives it her all. I loved seeing how far she has gone within the pages, and by the end of the book is a very different person
Girls Can' Hit is a very positive book, that shows that girls can do anything they want. It's very reaffirming to see the journey that Fleur takes and how much she has changed and grown as a person, with a lot of battle already won by the last page. It has a great mix of positivity, a tear jerking moment, and humour...
Final Verdict
After finishing Girl Can't Hit I know I need to read the previous books. I loved every single page of this book and really think his should be read by everyone. I would love to see a follow on from this book to see how Fleur gets on after the final page.
The minute I began reading Girls Can't Hit I was hooked, I fell in love with the writing and the characters, and I really needed to know how Fleur would get on in this new world of boxing.
Fleur, Blossom, and Pip are best of friends, and they all have thier own unique personalities and beliefs. It's thanks to Blossoms belief that this trio find themselves at the boxing club, making a stand for women's rights and thier right to be included in the mens boxing club. Fleur soon finds herself signing up to join, and what started out as a way to prove a point soon turn into a hobby. But can Fleur balance her new life with her old one, or will everything fall apart.
I loved Fleur immediately, for her determination, for her belief in herself, and as the book progresses, for her positive attitude about her body and herself. Fleur goes through a lot of changes and difficult times throughout this book. She is faced with losing time with her friends, a unsupportive boyfriend who doesn't like this new Fleur, parents who don't want her to box, and initial unwariness for joining the boy boxing team. She also faces bullies every day of school who are determined to make her life hell, especially during P.E. But she faces each battle head on, and although there are tears, and sweat, she gives it her all. I loved seeing how far she has gone within the pages, and by the end of the book is a very different person
Girls Can' Hit is a very positive book, that shows that girls can do anything they want. It's very reaffirming to see the journey that Fleur takes and how much she has changed and grown as a person, with a lot of battle already won by the last page. It has a great mix of positivity, a tear jerking moment, and humour...
I'd never seen evidence that I had ANY muscles in my arms. Turns out there are dozens of the little fellas and they were all hating on me big-time for waking them up.
Final Verdict
After finishing Girl Can't Hit I know I need to read the previous books. I loved every single page of this book and really think his should be read by everyone. I would love to see a follow on from this book to see how Fleur gets on after the final page.
August 11, 2019
Rating: 4 stars
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 8/10
Enjoyment: 8/10
I really liked and enjoyed this book. It was a bit hard to get into in the beginning but when I did get into it I couldn't stop reading!
The characters were all pretty relatable and likeable. I especially liked Fleur because she didn't make any stupid decisions for any stupid reasons and she never did anything to make me hate her. I liked that she was really funny and had genuine struggles. I also like Blossom and Pip and I thought that Fleur, Blossom and Pip made an amazing trio. I really liked how Blossom is a very strong feminist and does anything for what she believes in.
I really enjoyed the plot of the story, I liked how this book is focused on the fact that no matter your gender you can do whatever you want. There was some times in this book were I could guess what was going to happen next but it didn't really bother me that much.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and there really wasn't anything bad about I just didn't love it (I don't know if that makes any sense to anyone but oh well). I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes books that has feminism in it.
Bye
:)
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 8/10
Enjoyment: 8/10
I really liked and enjoyed this book. It was a bit hard to get into in the beginning but when I did get into it I couldn't stop reading!
The characters were all pretty relatable and likeable. I especially liked Fleur because she didn't make any stupid decisions for any stupid reasons and she never did anything to make me hate her. I liked that she was really funny and had genuine struggles. I also like Blossom and Pip and I thought that Fleur, Blossom and Pip made an amazing trio. I really liked how Blossom is a very strong feminist and does anything for what she believes in.
I really enjoyed the plot of the story, I liked how this book is focused on the fact that no matter your gender you can do whatever you want. There was some times in this book were I could guess what was going to happen next but it didn't really bother me that much.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and there really wasn't anything bad about I just didn't love it (I don't know if that makes any sense to anyone but oh well). I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes books that has feminism in it.
Bye
:)
April 6, 2019
A quick and easy read that made me laugh out loud lots.
August 22, 2018
Fleur Waters doesn’t really care about much, but is happy to come along with her outspoken feminist friend Blossom to fight for co-ed classes at the local boxing club. While there, she signs up for a class. That class is hard, the workout is intense and she’s the only girl, but Fleur finds that she actually enjoys the exercise and feels pride when she lands a good punch on a punching bag. So she continues, much to the shock and dismay of her friends and family. Her mother is overprotective and would much rather her daughter do something safer. Blossom thinks the sport is needlessly violent. Fleur’s boyfriend George is hesitant as she develops muscles and becomes stronger. But Fleur doesn’t care, and just wants the thrill of the ring. Fleur learns when it’s her time to fight in T. S. Easton’s GIRLS CAN’T HIT.
GIRLS CAN’T HIT is a fantastic feminist novel. It offers a good message to its audience: that girls can do what guys do. That it’s not only a guy’s world. That girls can be strong and powerful. That girls can have a say in the world. That girls can enjoy both traditionally masculine and feminine things. Easton tackles a lot of these issues in GIRLS CAN’T HIT, but still manages to keep the book lighthearted and entertaining. It’s inspiring to read about a normal girl who does something special. It’s also nice to read a book where feminism isn’t just a joke, and it’s treated as a real, positive movement. Especially by a male author.
My favorite thing about this book is how relatable Fleur is. She does a lot of the things she does out of spite and enjoys proving people wrong. I know quite a few of us have done things for this reason, and it works. Boxing is hard for Fleur, it’s not like she just shows up one day and is suddenly the best boxer ever. She has to work hard and she knows she’s not the best, but she likes it so she keeps working to improve. Fleur is stubborn and obviously not perfect, but her determination and passion make her a good character to look up to.
This book made me want to put on a pair of boxing gloves and use them to destroy the patriarchy. It wasn’t hard to read, but it was motivational. It’s empowering for teen girls to know that they can do what they want and excel at it --- and this book isn’t only for the young women. Boys out there should also read it because it’s entertaining and they can learn that anyone can be a feminist. GIRLS CAN’T HIT is funny and great reminder for everyone that outward appearances don’t always express what’s on the inside. I’ve already recommended this book and I would do it again.
Quick disclaimer before you read --- there are some jokes in this book that are a little dirty, and it briefly mentions the topics of rape and sexual harassment.
Reviewed by Becky N., Teen Board Member
GIRLS CAN’T HIT is a fantastic feminist novel. It offers a good message to its audience: that girls can do what guys do. That it’s not only a guy’s world. That girls can be strong and powerful. That girls can have a say in the world. That girls can enjoy both traditionally masculine and feminine things. Easton tackles a lot of these issues in GIRLS CAN’T HIT, but still manages to keep the book lighthearted and entertaining. It’s inspiring to read about a normal girl who does something special. It’s also nice to read a book where feminism isn’t just a joke, and it’s treated as a real, positive movement. Especially by a male author.
My favorite thing about this book is how relatable Fleur is. She does a lot of the things she does out of spite and enjoys proving people wrong. I know quite a few of us have done things for this reason, and it works. Boxing is hard for Fleur, it’s not like she just shows up one day and is suddenly the best boxer ever. She has to work hard and she knows she’s not the best, but she likes it so she keeps working to improve. Fleur is stubborn and obviously not perfect, but her determination and passion make her a good character to look up to.
This book made me want to put on a pair of boxing gloves and use them to destroy the patriarchy. It wasn’t hard to read, but it was motivational. It’s empowering for teen girls to know that they can do what they want and excel at it --- and this book isn’t only for the young women. Boys out there should also read it because it’s entertaining and they can learn that anyone can be a feminist. GIRLS CAN’T HIT is funny and great reminder for everyone that outward appearances don’t always express what’s on the inside. I’ve already recommended this book and I would do it again.
Quick disclaimer before you read --- there are some jokes in this book that are a little dirty, and it briefly mentions the topics of rape and sexual harassment.
Reviewed by Becky N., Teen Board Member
March 18, 2017
3.5 stars and a full review to follow some time when it isn't 3.30am and I've made better life choices. Even though in places the writing style felt a little clumsy or unpolished, it still cracked me up, sometimes to a disproportionate extent. I think I just have a soft spot for 1066 jokes. And for the gift shop at Battle Abbey, where I once got into a long discussion with the guy working there about mead, swords, and his dissertation on 14th century torture methods (and via that, Game of Thrones). I felt the characters were a little disparaging about the gift shop, really. It's not bad. It has swords.
FULL REVIEW
This book was a little bit odd, in that my favourite thing about it was also one of my least favourite things about it -- the writing style. In many ways, the phrasing seemed clumsy and unpolished and it felt like it needed editing. At the same time, it cracked me up. Seriously, there were so many parts of this book that I found hilarious, which was a little bit unexpected. I found myself highlighting all sorts of things just because they amused me.
Maybe this is because I have a soft spot for Saxon jokes and there are a few of those because the characters live near Battle -- never let it be said that my sense of humour isn't fairly niche. But whatever the reason, this made me laugh, which in turn made me forgive any other weaknesses of the style.
I did, however, think the characters were a bit too disparaging about the gift shop at Battle Abbey. Unless it's gone downhill since I was there (which was a few years ago), it's rather a good one, with a range of actual swords and a substantial mead collection. I once got in a really long conversation with the guy working there: it started about being about the differences between Viking and Celtic mead, and ended up going via his dissertation on 14th century torture devices to discussing Game of Thrones, which I'd just been reading. Plus there were definitely swords. So I don't understand why they disliked it quite so much. But anyway.
Also, this book was bizarrely relatable considering the subject matter. I have no interest in boxing -- the closest I'd get would be my love of hitting people with swords. The idea of working out and bulking up on protein and all of the sports-related things that the protagonist goes through is alien to me, and you would think as a result I wouldn't be able to relate to her. However, her motivations are just so ... me. Half of what she does in the book is because somebody told her she couldn't, and when she actually dislikes something, there's no way she'll admit that to the people who didn't want her to do it in the first place. It's sheer stubbornness that drives her decisions, and I can relate to that SO HARD.
I could also relate a lot to Pip, who I'm pretty sure is dyspraxic and has hypermobility -- his joints are described as seeming to have been put together back to front and he's clumsy and incompetent and exercise makes him want to die. I mean, same. The descriptions of him attempting a boxing class were both relatable and funny.
In some places the book's not exactly subtle with its feminist message, and Fleur's best friend is quite the stereotypical teenage feminist who is far too up in arms about everything, to the point where it's sometimes difficult to tell if the author is supporting or mocking her. However, on the whole it's a funny, surprisingly relatable story about stubbornness and girl power.
Also, while there's a romantic element, it mostly keeps to the background, and doesn't interfere with the other themes, which I appreciated it.
FULL REVIEW
This book was a little bit odd, in that my favourite thing about it was also one of my least favourite things about it -- the writing style. In many ways, the phrasing seemed clumsy and unpolished and it felt like it needed editing. At the same time, it cracked me up. Seriously, there were so many parts of this book that I found hilarious, which was a little bit unexpected. I found myself highlighting all sorts of things just because they amused me.
Maybe this is because I have a soft spot for Saxon jokes and there are a few of those because the characters live near Battle -- never let it be said that my sense of humour isn't fairly niche. But whatever the reason, this made me laugh, which in turn made me forgive any other weaknesses of the style.
I did, however, think the characters were a bit too disparaging about the gift shop at Battle Abbey. Unless it's gone downhill since I was there (which was a few years ago), it's rather a good one, with a range of actual swords and a substantial mead collection. I once got in a really long conversation with the guy working there: it started about being about the differences between Viking and Celtic mead, and ended up going via his dissertation on 14th century torture devices to discussing Game of Thrones, which I'd just been reading. Plus there were definitely swords. So I don't understand why they disliked it quite so much. But anyway.
Also, this book was bizarrely relatable considering the subject matter. I have no interest in boxing -- the closest I'd get would be my love of hitting people with swords. The idea of working out and bulking up on protein and all of the sports-related things that the protagonist goes through is alien to me, and you would think as a result I wouldn't be able to relate to her. However, her motivations are just so ... me. Half of what she does in the book is because somebody told her she couldn't, and when she actually dislikes something, there's no way she'll admit that to the people who didn't want her to do it in the first place. It's sheer stubbornness that drives her decisions, and I can relate to that SO HARD.
I could also relate a lot to Pip, who I'm pretty sure is dyspraxic and has hypermobility -- his joints are described as seeming to have been put together back to front and he's clumsy and incompetent and exercise makes him want to die. I mean, same. The descriptions of him attempting a boxing class were both relatable and funny.
In some places the book's not exactly subtle with its feminist message, and Fleur's best friend is quite the stereotypical teenage feminist who is far too up in arms about everything, to the point where it's sometimes difficult to tell if the author is supporting or mocking her. However, on the whole it's a funny, surprisingly relatable story about stubbornness and girl power.
Also, while there's a romantic element, it mostly keeps to the background, and doesn't interfere with the other themes, which I appreciated it.
February 27, 2019
Fleur Waters is always goofing around. She never takes anything seriously. However, one day at school she heard a snarky comment about how girls were far in-superior to boys, and couldn't hit. Fleur was offended by this comment. Not only because she is a woman, but also because she is a feminist. If I were to hear this come out of someone's mouth, I would feel offended too. This is because I believe that men and women are equal in every way possible, just as Fleur does. After hearing these statements, Fleur started to show an interest in boxing. I am not really interested in boxing, because I don't think that I would want to punch someone unless they were to attack me first. Fleur then signs herself up for a boxing class. When she gets there, she finds herself in a room full of boys. She is the only girl there. If I were in this situation, I would feel pretty awkward. Fleur feels awkward too. She feels embarrassed and ashamed for being interested in boxing. Even though she feels all of these emotions, she decides to box anyway. Fleur fights (boxes) through hate. Fleur fights through bullying. Fleur fights through embarrassment. Through disgust, humiliation, and weird looks. But most importantly, Fleur fights through the doubt. The doubt that she cannot be as strong as a boy. I can relate to this type of situation because I am harassed for being strong at times as well. I wish that these types of comments and hate didn't occur in the world, but in reality, it does. It happens every day and whether others see it happen or not, the people that are harassed for their amazing abilities will carry it with them every single day. It makes them who they are. Heck, it makes me who I am. Fleur has now been boxing for three months. She then challenges Jack, the boy that doubted women, to a fist fight. However, Jack didn't know that Fleur had been boxing over the time that she had kept quiet at school. Jack told Fleur to meet him on the playground after school, where they would fight. I'm rooting for Fleur, how about you? I found this book very empowering because I could relate to what Fleur was going through and therefore had a pretty good idea of how she was feeling. I believed in Fleur throughout this book, just as I have had to believe in myself through my similar experiences. Who are you rooting for? Read the book to find out who will win the fist fight!
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July 29, 2018
3.5 stars
Fleur Waters never takes anything seriously. She drifts about, content to be content with what she has. She's not particularly big into sports or very competitive, her friend Blossom is the activist, and her boyfriend George is a straight-laced military academy student. She's never been keen on challenging herself until she discovers boxing. Despite warnings from her friends and parents about the dangers of the sport, Fleur takes to it for the fitness, the new friends and the challenge. But can she fight in the ring?
I'm on the fence about this one. Yes, it's funny. Yes, it says the right things at the right times (although it can be a little over-the-top). Yes, it has some inclusivity with its characters, and it addresses the challenges girls face when it comes to their bodies. It IS a feminist novel. However, there were a couple parts where I was like, "Yup, this is written by a dude," and while I enjoyed the story, it didn't feel authentic. It said the right things and did the right things but like there was little emotion behind them (towards the end, the emotion ramps up a bit). And yes, I just became the stereotypical "authenticity-craving reviewer."
I loved the characters, particularly Pip with his Norman-Saxon side-switching, his Woods, his wild sense of fashion and his erratic driving. I also liked Fleur's dad, however, Blossom, Bonita, Tarik and Ricky all felt like caricatures (The Activist, The Poor-Aggressive-Girl, The Diversity Boxer, and The Coach) instead of actual people.
Despite my criticism, I did enjoy this a lot. I liked that it was basically Rocky (with a twist! And no, I'm not talking the gender swapping).
There was just something missing.
I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
Fleur Waters never takes anything seriously. She drifts about, content to be content with what she has. She's not particularly big into sports or very competitive, her friend Blossom is the activist, and her boyfriend George is a straight-laced military academy student. She's never been keen on challenging herself until she discovers boxing. Despite warnings from her friends and parents about the dangers of the sport, Fleur takes to it for the fitness, the new friends and the challenge. But can she fight in the ring?
I'm on the fence about this one. Yes, it's funny. Yes, it says the right things at the right times (although it can be a little over-the-top). Yes, it has some inclusivity with its characters, and it addresses the challenges girls face when it comes to their bodies. It IS a feminist novel. However, there were a couple parts where I was like, "Yup, this is written by a dude," and while I enjoyed the story, it didn't feel authentic. It said the right things and did the right things but like there was little emotion behind them (towards the end, the emotion ramps up a bit). And yes, I just became the stereotypical "authenticity-craving reviewer."
I loved the characters, particularly Pip with his Norman-Saxon side-switching, his Woods, his wild sense of fashion and his erratic driving. I also liked Fleur's dad, however, Blossom, Bonita, Tarik and Ricky all felt like caricatures (The Activist, The Poor-Aggressive-Girl, The Diversity Boxer, and The Coach) instead of actual people.
Despite my criticism, I did enjoy this a lot. I liked that it was basically Rocky (with a twist! And no, I'm not talking the gender swapping).
There was just something missing.
I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
April 12, 2018
What a breath of fresh air after some of the dreary novels I've read recently. It feels impossible to find a funny YA with believable and relatable characters that you can see yourself in. After reading Easton's 'Boys Don't Knit', I knew I'd have to pick up this story as a nice female equivalent.
Tom Easton does a great job at keeping a story light and entertaining while still packing a lot of important topics that are expertly handled. There's a lot here on what it means to be a woman and be a boxer who happens to be a woman or any male-dominated field, really. There's discussions on what it means to be a good feminist and being true to yourself and following your own paths. And it can be read in a day because it's such an easy read and enjoyable story. This was just what I needed.
5/5
Tom Easton does a great job at keeping a story light and entertaining while still packing a lot of important topics that are expertly handled. There's a lot here on what it means to be a woman and be a boxer who happens to be a woman or any male-dominated field, really. There's discussions on what it means to be a good feminist and being true to yourself and following your own paths. And it can be read in a day because it's such an easy read and enjoyable story. This was just what I needed.
5/5
January 4, 2019
Not quite as fun as the previous two books, but still entertaining enough. It could be the change of writing style from diary format, or just the fact that it’s a different MC. Not quite sure. The boxing bits were fun but weren’t as gripping as they could’ve been, as we didn’t get to know the other boxers, and the time skips resulted in a lot of telling vs showing.
There was still the author’s trademark humor that didn’t fail to make me laugh every chapter or so, and it does have me wanting to reread sports manga, so it isn’t like I didn’t enjoy it. Just not as much as reading about knitting!
There was still the author’s trademark humor that didn’t fail to make me laugh every chapter or so, and it does have me wanting to reread sports manga, so it isn’t like I didn’t enjoy it. Just not as much as reading about knitting!
June 4, 2017
I loved this book. It is the story of Fleur a teen girl who isn't particularly sporty but finds herself joining a boxing gym and taking on sexist stereotypes and proving those around her wrong. This book particularly reasonated with me because it reminded me of the time around my late teens when I was kick boxing and went to some classes at a particularly rough gym in the city for some of my sessions and when I was reading the scenes with Fleur at classes I could picture her in that spit and sawdust gym with all the interesting characters I used to encounter there. I particularly liked what the book had to say about girls doing sport. All so often as a girl you are classed as either being a sporty girl who is on the school teams or you are not sporty. there never seems to be that middle ground which is a real shame because school PE doesn't reflect the sort of exercise most adults do. I therefore loved seeing this girl getting out there and doing her thing without being one of the "sporty" girls in her school. As always I also loved the friendships between the main characters and her friendship group but also the friendships she starts to develop with other members of the gym
January 30, 2020
More like 3.75/5
March 7, 2021
C’était super fun ! J’ai adoré le perso principal qui ne lâche rien et qui a une repartie d’enfer ! Ça change vraiment de ce que j’ai pu lire auparavant. Une heroine qui fait de la boxe et qui s’y investit à 200% c’est pas commun mais justement la littérature de jeunesse aurait besoin de plus de portraits comme celui ci.
November 27, 2021
It's a really short novel but it doesn't matter in this situation. This book is amazing. The power it holds. Girls can hit. We all can. And that's beautiful for all times.
July 14, 2022
Po przeczytaniu tyłu książki raczej wiadomy jest koniec ale mimo to czytało się przyjemnie. Fabuła została dobrze poprowadzona, dzięki czemu nie straciłam zainteresowania a wręcz je zyskałam.
April 13, 2023
Tylko dlatego, że dziewczyny się w końcu pobiły
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2018
Surprisingly really good!
April 5, 2021
Un contemporain drôle et féministe qui donne un coup de boost au moral et l’envie de déplacer des montagnes !
https://auxpetitsbonheursweb.wordpres...
https://auxpetitsbonheursweb.wordpres...
September 6, 2017
GIRLS CAN HIT!! Enjoyed this empowering read that made me go out to jab more often, lol. If there's a sequel for this (just like its predecessor,
Boys Don't Knit (in Public)
, will definitely pick it up!
March 13, 2020
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Fleur wasn't really an activist, but she was stubborned and didn't like being told she could or couldn't do something. When a local boxing club advertised separate classes for women, all she heard was "girls can't hit", and Fleur was determined to show them they were wrong. What started out as a sort of protest turned into a life changing experience for Fleur.
• Pro: Fleur was stupendous! She was wry and witty and I loved her sense of humor. The growth she experienced in this book was tremendous. It was incredible to see how participating in a sport put her on this path to self discovery. She changed both physically and mentally, and she began to see herself and her place in the world in a very different way.
• Pro: Fleur had two besties, Blossom and Pip, who were so different from her, but also enriched her life in so many ways. They were steadfast friends, and even when they didn't seem 100% behind her, they were supportive. Blossom and Pip were also quite amusing and provided many, many laughs.
• Pro: Since all I knew about boxing was learned from Rocky movies, this book expanded my knowledge greatly. I enjoyed learning about the sport a lot more than I even thought I would, and I really felt like Easton did a great job pulling me into that world.
• Pro: I like English humor and found this book hysterical. I laughed often and audibly. It was exchanges like this, which kept me smiling: "Not everything in life has a metaphor in a Rocky film," Tarik said. "You're so wrong," I told him.
• Pro: One of the major things this book does is challenge gender norms. It was so refreshing to see a female character happy about gaining muscle, eating, eating, and eating some more to get her weight up. Fleur didn't buy into that dainty-girl garbage, and I loved her even more for it.
• Pro: The relationship that grew between Fleur and her parents really warmed my heart. Fleur began biking and this helped her connect to her dad. They would ride and chat, and I think she grew to understand both of her parents a lot more as she began to understand herself.
Overall: A hilarious and feel good tale of self discovery, which touched upon themes of family, friendship, and feminism.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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Fleur wasn't really an activist, but she was stubborned and didn't like being told she could or couldn't do something. When a local boxing club advertised separate classes for women, all she heard was "girls can't hit", and Fleur was determined to show them they were wrong. What started out as a sort of protest turned into a life changing experience for Fleur.
• Pro: Fleur was stupendous! She was wry and witty and I loved her sense of humor. The growth she experienced in this book was tremendous. It was incredible to see how participating in a sport put her on this path to self discovery. She changed both physically and mentally, and she began to see herself and her place in the world in a very different way.
• Pro: Fleur had two besties, Blossom and Pip, who were so different from her, but also enriched her life in so many ways. They were steadfast friends, and even when they didn't seem 100% behind her, they were supportive. Blossom and Pip were also quite amusing and provided many, many laughs.
• Pro: Since all I knew about boxing was learned from Rocky movies, this book expanded my knowledge greatly. I enjoyed learning about the sport a lot more than I even thought I would, and I really felt like Easton did a great job pulling me into that world.
• Pro: I like English humor and found this book hysterical. I laughed often and audibly. It was exchanges like this, which kept me smiling: "Not everything in life has a metaphor in a Rocky film," Tarik said. "You're so wrong," I told him.
• Pro: One of the major things this book does is challenge gender norms. It was so refreshing to see a female character happy about gaining muscle, eating, eating, and eating some more to get her weight up. Fleur didn't buy into that dainty-girl garbage, and I loved her even more for it.
• Pro: The relationship that grew between Fleur and her parents really warmed my heart. Fleur began biking and this helped her connect to her dad. They would ride and chat, and I think she grew to understand both of her parents a lot more as she began to understand herself.
Overall: A hilarious and feel good tale of self discovery, which touched upon themes of family, friendship, and feminism.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
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