Antoinette's Reviews > Fight Night

It’s always a shock to my system when I go from a book written in 1949 to a contemporary book. The writing style, the dialogue- it all feels like I have stepped into a modern world that I cannot identify with.
But luckily, Miriam Toews knows how to draw a reader in. I would call this book a high energy book- there is always some antic or joke going on. Borders on exhausting at times.

I loved meeting this trio- Swiv (100 months old), so almost 9; her mother, who is pregnant with “Gord” and her grandmother, Elvira. Grandma has instilled strength in her daughter and Swiv. Thanks to telling Swiv to fight for herself, she has been suspended from school. She stays home and helps take care of her grandmother, including helping her shower and making sure she takes her pills. Loved the relationship between the three, which is the heart of the story.

My only quibble: I found that Swiv was too “ grown up” and “capable” for her young years. I found it hard to believe she could do all that she did in this book.
Nonetheless, a wonderful exploration of family and the timeless love between these three wonderful characters. It is a testament to embracing life at all costs.

I picked up this book to read for a lecture series I attend, and I must admit I wasn’t totally sold on it at first, but I ended up loving it and being ecstatic that I read it !

One other think I loved- I am a huge Toronto Raptors ( basketball) fan, and I loved the references to them in the book.

So much to love in this book! Definite recommendation if you love eccentric families.

Published: 2021