Abysmal Brute

Published in 1913, 'The Abysmal Brute' by Jack London follows 22-year-old Pat Glendon, a natural athlete and prize-fighter raised in the wilds of northern California. Trained by his father, a former heavyweight champion, Pat enters the corrupt world of professional boxing under the guidance of manager Sam Stubener. The novel explores themes of innocence and the brutality of the sport, while also weaving in a romantic subplot. It has been adapted into films twice, including a 1936 version starring John Wayne.