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Sparring with Shadows cover art

Sparring with Shadows

By: Archimede Fusillo
Narrated by: Stephen Phillips
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Editorial reviews

David Martenesi is an Australian boy who is self-conscious about his Italian background, doesn't fit in with the cool crowd, and lacks in self-esteem and confidence. Being faced with the peer pressures of gangs, bullying, and violence doesn't make things any easier. Archimede Fusillo's young adult novel takes a marvelously clear-eyed look at the emotional lives of boys and the importance of self-expression. Keeping with the themes in Sparring with Shadows, Stephen Phillips gives a lovely performance, full of sensitivity and nuance that makes David a relatable and sympathetic character as he navigates the cruelty of the world around him.

Publisher's Summary

David Martinesi is a first generation Italian Australian growing up in an inner city suburb. He is fighting the shadows cast by his Italian upbringing, and this summer he is quietly waiting for change. Change comes when he is befriended by confident, street-wise Nathan. But tragedy comes too...
©2003 Archimede Fusillo (P)2003 Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd.
Literature & Fiction
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    5 out of 5 stars
Profile Image for Stargirl456

bitter sweet coming of age

Written and narrated with honesty , humour and wonderful memories of growing up as men
It's set in Australia, in I think 60's . Focusing on 2 young men, learning what it was it was to be in each others shoes. Both from different worlds, both secretly longing to live each others lives, but only admitting it to themselves.
I loved this coming of age book, I love the pace, the characters were really enjoyable,and the story was totally relatable for me.

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