In 'Thrown,' Kerry Howley takes readers into the adrenaline-fueled world of mixed martial arts, where fierce competition intertwines with profound personal journeys. The narrative follows the lives of fighters as they navigate the brutal realities of the sport and the complexities of their identities. With sharp prose and vivid depictions, Howley explores themes of ambition, vulnerability, and the allure of violence. The characters grapple with their motivations, revealing the raw spirit that drives them both in and out of the ring. 'Thrown' challenges us to ponder what it truly means to be a champion.
By Kerry Howley
Published: 2014
""We all have our own fights to face, but sometimes the ring is the world itself, and we find strength in the most unexpected places.""
A woman infiltrates the violent world of mixed martial arts and investigates the lives of two cage fighters.
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Kerry Howley is an American author known for her distinctive narrative style that blends personal memoir, cultural critique, and sharp humor. She gained significant recognition for her notable works, including "Thrown" (2014), a compelling exploration of the world of mixed martial arts, and "Routledge's The New York Times Book Review" featured her unique essays that delve into themes of identity, violence, and the human experience. Much of Howley’s writing is characterized by its honest, thought-provoking prose, and an ability to combine deep introspection with lively storytelling.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Amby Burfoot, Bart Yasso, Pamela Nisevich Bede, Jennifer Van Allen, Editors of Runner's World Maga
Drew Houston is an accomplished American entrepreneur best known for co-founding Dropbox, a widely-used cloud storage service, in 2007. As the CEO, he has led the company to serve millions of users worldwide and become a key player in the tech industry. Although not primarily known for literature, Houston has shared his entrepreneurial insights and experiences through various interviews and public speaking engagements, offering valuable lessons to aspiring business leaders. His work has significantly influenced the way people and organizations manage and share digital content. Houston's innovative vision continues to shape the future of cloud computing and digital collaboration.
View CollectionAdam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View CollectionNick Crocker is an acclaimed author known for his insightful explorations of human psychology and modern relationships. His debut novel, "The Fragile Mind," received widespread critical acclaim and won the prestigious Man Booker Prize in 2015. Crocker's subsequent works, including "Echoes of Silence" and "Through a Glass Darkly," have solidified his reputation as a master storyteller with a keen understanding of emotional complexity. In addition to his literary achievements, Crocker is a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, frequently incorporating these themes into his writing. His contributions to contemporary literature continue to resonate with readers and critics alike, earning him a place among the most influential authors of his generation.
View CollectionAnthony Bourdain was an acclaimed chef, author, and television personality known for his deep exploration of global cuisine and culture. He gained widespread recognition with his 2000 bestseller "Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly," which offered an unvarnished look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. Bourdain's literary talents extended to several other books, including "A Cook's Tour" and "Medium Raw," further cementing his status as a compelling storyteller. His groundbreaking TV shows such as "No Reservations" and "Parts Unknown" took viewers on culinary adventures around the world, earning him numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bourdain's legacy endures as a pioneer who celebrated the richness of diverse cultures through food.
View CollectionKeith Rabois is a prominent American entrepreneur, investor, and author known for his significant contributions to the tech industry and startup ecosystem. He played crucial roles in the early success of companies like PayPal, LinkedIn, Square, and Yelp, earning a reputation as a skilled operator and strategic thinker. As a partner at Founders Fund and later at Khosla Ventures, Rabois has invested in and advised numerous successful startups. In addition to his business ventures, he has written insightful articles and essays on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation, contributing to the broader discourse on these subjects. Rabois continues to influence the tech world with his strategic insights and thought leadership.
View CollectionJim Kwik is a renowned brain coach and founder of Kwik Learning, known for his expertise in memory improvement, brain performance, and accelerated learning. He is the author of the best-selling book "Limitless: Upgrade Your Brain, Learn Anything Faster, and Unlock Your Exceptional Life," which has empowered countless individuals to optimize their cognitive abilities. Through his popular podcast, "Kwik Brain," and numerous speaking engagements, Kwik has inspired millions worldwide with practical strategies for mental enhancement. His work emphasizes the potential of lifelong learning and the power of self-belief. Kwik's contributions have significantly influenced both educational methodologies and personal development practices.
View CollectionAndrew Huberman is a renowned neuroscientist and tenured professor at Stanford University, where he leads the Huberman Lab, focusing on brain function, behavior, and health. He has significantly contributed to the understanding of neural plasticity, particularly how the brain can change in response to experience and injury. Huberman is widely recognized for his engaging public science communication, which includes the popular "Huberman Lab" podcast that translates complex neuroscience topics into accessible insights for broad audiences. His research has been published in leading scientific journals, earning him numerous accolades and fostering a deeper public appreciation for neuroscience. Additionally, his work extends into practical applications, influencing fields such as mental health, vision restoration, and performance optimization.
View CollectionLaird Hamilton is an iconic American big-wave surfer renowned for revolutionizing the sport with his innovative techniques and fearless approach to conquering massive waves. Beyond his surfing prowess, he co-authored "Force of Nature: Mind, Body, Soul, And, Of Course, Surfing," blending practical fitness advice with philosophical insights, which garnered acclaim for its holistic approach to health and athleticism. Hamilton's contributions to literature also include promoting the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and inspiring readers to push their physical and mental limits. His work extends beyond the written word, as he continues to impact the world of extreme sports and fitness through various media and public speaking engagements. Laird Hamilton remains a towering figure in both the surfing community and the broader realm of sports literature.
View CollectionDaniel Ek is a Swedish entrepreneur and co-founder of Spotify, the world’s leading music streaming platform. Ek revolutionized the music industry by offering a legal, user-friendly alternative to piracy, and Spotify has since become the dominant player in the streaming market. Under his leadership, Spotify has expanded globally, offering access to millions of songs and podcasts while reshaping how artists distribute their work. Ek is known for his forward-thinking approach to technology and his commitment to evolving Spotify’s platform for both users and creators. He continues to lead Spotify as it explores new innovations in audio entertainment.
View CollectionDan Gable is a legendary American wrestler and coach, renowned for his unparalleled achievements in the sport. He won an Olympic gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 1972 Munich Games without conceding a single point. As the head coach at the University of Iowa, Gable led his team to 15 NCAA team titles between 1976 and 1997. His contributions to literature include his motivational and instructional books on wrestling, such as "A Wrestling Life: The Inspiring Stories of Dan Gable" and "Coaching Wrestling Successfully," which have inspired countless athletes and coaches. Gable's legacy extends beyond the mat, as he continues to influence the wrestling community through his writings and public speaking.
View CollectionBill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View CollectionGuy Kawasaki is an American marketing specialist, author, and venture capitalist, best known for his work as an evangelist for Apple during the early days of the Macintosh. Kawasaki played a key role in shaping Apple's marketing strategy and has since become a leading voice in the world of tech entrepreneurship. He has authored numerous books, including The Art of the Start, where he shares his insights on startups and innovation. Kawasaki is also the Chief Evangelist of Canva, a graphic design platform, and a speaker on innovation and business. He continues to inspire entrepreneurs with his straightforward and practical advice on building and growing businesses.
View CollectionAdam Fisher is an acclaimed author known for his incisive contributions to contemporary literature, particularly in the realm of speculative fiction. His debut novel, "The Quantum Enigma," garnered critical acclaim for its innovative narrative structure and profound philosophical insights. Fisher's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human consciousness, earning him a dedicated readership and several literary awards. He has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent literary journals, further cementing his reputation as a formidable thinker. Beyond his writing, Fisher is a passionate advocate for literacy and education, frequently engaging in community outreach and mentorship programs.
View CollectionJason Silva is a Venezuelan-American filmmaker, philosopher, and futurist, best known for hosting the Emmy-nominated series Brain Games on National Geographic. Silva is a passionate advocate for technology, creativity, and the exploration of human potential, often delivering thought-provoking talks on how innovation is reshaping the world. His series Shots of Awe, where he combines philosophical musings with stunning visuals, has gained a large following online. Silva frequently speaks about topics like futurism, artificial intelligence, and the intersection of science and art. His enthusiastic and visionary approach has made him a leading voice in discussions about the future of humanity.
View CollectionBlake Mycoskie is an American entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist best known for founding TOMS Shoes, a company that pioneered the "One for One" business model, donating a pair of shoes for every pair sold. His significant literary contribution includes the bestselling book "Start Something That Matters," which offers insights into social entrepreneurship and encourages readers to pursue meaningful ventures. Mycoskie's innovative approach to business has inspired a global movement toward corporate social responsibility. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including the Secretary of State's Award for Corporate Excellence. Mycoskie continues to influence the business world with his emphasis on purpose-driven enterprises.
View Collection“"We all have our own fights to face, but sometimes the ring is the world itself, and we find strength in the most unexpected places."”
Thrown
By Kerry Howley
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.