It was the best of times. It was the worst of times. IN FIGHTING RUBEN WOLFE, Aussie newcomer Markus Zusak brings us into a world of dogfights and illegal boxing matches. Enter Ruben and Cameron, two young punks hungry for money and a lot more dignity. Downtrodden and poverty stricken, the brothers Wolfe are living on the edge of Sydney's blue collar world, a world where the working poor try to increase their meager earnings by betting on dog races and boxing matches. When the boys get the opportunity to fight for a sleazy fight promoter bent on exploiting their inexperience and vulnerability, they jump at the chance to pick up a few bucks and help out their unemployed father. But really, the stakes are much higher. Cameron is younger, more sensitive and not much of a fighter. Rube, as he's called, is harder, more streetwise and a natural fighter. Together, they fight for identity, pride, and for each other.

Semi-autobiographical in nature, Zusak's first-person narrative is electrifying. His simple and direct writing style is shot through with one, two and three word sentences, much like the jabs and combinations his characters throw. Coarse and poetic at the same time, the power of Zusak's prose and vivid imagery will continue to reverberate long after the last punch is thrown.

   --- Reviewed by Tammy L. Currier

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