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A Fistful of Legends By Alida and Samantha Toweel

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R 330.00
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Please Note: This is a long lead time item due to the festive season. Delivery of this item will take place after 2nd January 2025
Price in points: 330 points
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Beyond The Vale Publishing
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Thoroughly researched story of Hall of Fame boxer, Willie Toweel and the boxing Toweel family When Willie Toweel was inducted into the Hall of Fame, he was asked which achievement in his illustrious boxing career stood out most for him. “When I realised that I had a voice to help others up,” he replied. Building that voice is a family story which includes many struggles, which have remained untold – until now. It began in 1912 with the death of Willie’s grandfather, and the consequent journey of a family across the treacherous seas from Lebanon to family in South Africa. Faced with dire poverty, the struggle to survive, and unrelenting xenophobia, this family found solace – against all odds and to the distress of Willie’s mother – in one safe space, the boxing ring. Inside and outside the ring, they struggled against all odds as they are together and his seven children fed. legacy that elevated a nation and challenged the evils of apartheid. As testimony, today, Willie and his brother, Vic Toweel, stand in the South African Sports Hall of Fame. In addition, the Growing Champions Organisation, built on the inspiration of the Toweel story, helps children who struggle to survive, and in turn to contribute to community upliftment

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Jacintha McLeod
South Africa
5
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What an incredible and inspirational read. i could not put this book down - so well written. Such a moving story of overcoming adversity which culminated into the formation of Growing Champions. Looking forward to the sequel Sam!!!!
Comment
Highly Recommended - great idea for gifting :-)))
Anonymous
South Africa
5
Comment
'A Fist full of Legends' is a beautifully written and remarkable biography about a family of sporting legends who dominated the boxing ring with their incredible careers. But even more so, it is a story of resilience—a family who defied the odds to survive tragic loss and crippling poverty. Through their love, courage, and faith, they not only rebuilt themselves but also united boxers across divides, all while living under the shadow of apartheid.

This engaging and moving story will capture the hearts of sports fans, historians, and anyone inspired by the courage and perseverance of others.

I couldn't put 'A Fist full of Legends' down, and was sad when I finally did!
Clinton van der Berg
South Africa
5
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See my review here: https://gotgame.co.za/a-journey-through-time-with-a-fistful-of-legends/
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See my review: https://gotgame.co.za/a-journey-through-time-with-a-fistful-of-legends/
Magna Malan
South Africa
5
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Reading A Fistful of Legends was like sitting down for a long heartfelt conversation with an old friend. From the very first page, I was drawn into their journey- a story of resilience , vulnerability and unyielding hope.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is how authentically Alida and Samantha shares not just the triumphs, but also the struggles that shaped their family. What truly warmed my heart was the family's unwavering belief in the power of connection and kindness. They have a way of finding light even in the darkest moments, and that optimism shines through on every page.
This book isn't just a recounting of events, it's a guide to living with courage, faith and authenticity.
If you are looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry and leave you inspired to chase your dreams, this is it. It is rare to find a story so personal yet so universally relatable. Well done my friend.
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Puffy eyes after crying
Comment
Extraordinary.
Ancilla Schroeder
South Africa
5
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I loved reading this book. One of a family who had the courage despite their circumstances to rise above the odds. Fabulous read
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None
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Loved it
Natalie Kalil
South Africa
5
Comment
An incredible story that evokes so much emotion. It is a reminder of days gone by that can still teach us today of what we should be prioritizing - faith and family. It is a reminder of what hard work and love can do even when the odds are against you. This story has inspired me to look at my own heritage and has reminded me that our roots help us stand firm and steady the shakiness in an uncertain world. It is an entertaining story that keeps you hooked right through and leaves you thinking about it for weeks after, with life lessons that linger and motivate you to want to do more.
Anonymous
South Africa
4
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A Fistful of Legends!
Captivating,Courageous,Family,Faith and so much more in this great book. Many life lessons can be learn.
Thoroughly enjoyed the book.
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None
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A must read.
Anonymous
South Africa
4
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The book "A Fistful of Legends" by Alida Toweel and Samantha Toweel-Morgan tells the story of one of South Africa's great boxing and sporting families. Known affectionally as "The Fighting Toweels", they impacted the sport of boxing nationally and internationally in the 20th century. It traces their humble beginnings from family patriarch Mike Toweel's immigration from Lebanon in the early 20th century and hardship overcoming racial discrimination and xenophobiia in South Africa and extreme poverty. Central to overcoming these seemingly insurmountable struggles is faith and fight. Deeply religious and a devout Catholic Mike instills these values in his seven children, to have faith and fight physically and mentally no matter the struggles faced. He also transfers his love for the sport of boxing to his children, of which his 5 sons become professional boxers. In addition Olympian boxers (Vic and Willie) representing South Africa and Willie winning the bronze medal at the Helsinki Olympics in 1952. Both Vic and Willie's meterotic rise as boxers is chartered in the book. Obtaining national, empire and world titles. Vic Toweel being the first South African to obtain a world title. The book is a page turner and keeps one utterly enthralled and transfixed. You'll not want to put it down. It's a book for both the boxing enthusiast and anyone who is inspired by the lived experiences of others. Further, the book recognises the role the family played in transforming boxing in South Africa to a non racial sport. Additionally, through the Toweels triumphs, elevating the Lebanese immigrant in the eyes of other South Africans.

Highly recommended, enjoyable and captivating read.
Comment
Delightful and personal tale and all can relate to.
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