Shadowboxing is a collection of short stories that are connected through the main character; Michael. It is written by Tony Birch, who is an Australian poet, short story writer and novelist. Shadowboxing is Tony’s first book, and it was published in 2006 by Scribe Publications Pty Limited.
The stories of Shadowboxing take place in inner-Melbourne in the suburb of Fitzroy in the 1960’s. There are ten short stories that explain who the main protagonist Michael is, as well as who he becomes as he continues growing. Michael’s family is led by his alcoholic father and sick mother, and his life is plagued by violence and brutality though he experiences dear moments of love.
Tony’s first book, Shadowboxing, was received with great reception, being shortlisted for the Queensland Premier’s Literary Awards-Arts Queensland Steele Rudd Australian Short Story Award, as well as 2011 commended the Kate Challis RAKA Award. Tony himself contributes to the ABC local and national radio, and lectures at universities as well as attending writers’ festivals.
