Djevojka od milijun dolara, priče iz kuta

The book, published in 2000 in English as "Rope Burns: Stories from the Corner", provides an intimate look into the world of boxing "from the corner" - through the eyes of trainers, managers and boxers. The stories are not just about the fights in the ring, but about lives, ambitions, pain, racism and human vulnerability.

The title story follows Maggie Fitzgerald, a headstrong waitress from a poor family who joins the men's boxing ring. With the support of skeptical trainer Frankie Dunn, Maggie becomes a star, but tragedy at the height of her fame highlights the fragility of dreams. The story was the basis for the 2004 Oscar-winning film by Clint Eastwood.

Other stories include: "The Rhythm of Life", about a young black man who fights street gangs and racial intolerance; "Middleweight", about corrupt managers and ethical dilemmas; "The Blind Man", about an elderly boxer who faces dementia from beatings; and "Traces of the Rope" about the rise and fall of a young talent in a violent neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Toole's style is raw, realistic and poetic – mixing detailed descriptions of boxing technique (balance, tactics, breathing) with deep emotional portraits. Boxing is not just a sport, but a metaphor for life: will, risk and respect. The book reveals the hidden magic of this "male" world, where destinies are intertwined in sweat and blood. Touching, sad and indispensable for fans of sports and human dramas.