From Trench Town to the top of the world — one man's inspiring fight for meaning, dignity, and respect.

Tiga’s Tale chronicles the remarkable life of world champion boxer Barrington “Tiga” Francis, who survived crushing poverty and violence in Jamaica’s notorious ghettos and the insidious racism of 1980s Montreal to emerge as one of Canada’s most successful professional fighters.

This riveting narrative is told in the twelve rounds of Barrington’s fight for the coveted British Commonwealth title, coupled with twelve vignettes that capture his exceptional story of perseverance, faith, and, ultimately, triumph.

Paul Harrietha is a former board chair, CEO, and academic. He is the co-author of The Invisible Rules: What's Really Holding Women Back in Business — and How to Fix It. Paul lives in Toronto.

Paul Harrietha's profile page

Barrington Francis is a Jamaican-Canadian professional feather/super feather/lightweight boxing champion.

Barrington Francis' profile page

A must-read for sports fans, Tiga’s Tale gives Francis the attention he so rightly deserves.

Elaine McCluskey, award-winning Canadian novelist and author of Going Fast

This book is so beautifully constructed and written.

Jason Winders, author of George Dixon: The Short Life of Boxing’s First Black World Champion

Tiga’s ability to overcome adversity, both inside and outside the ring, serves as an inspiration to all aspiring athletes.

Otis "Magic" Grant, Canadian boxing legend and former WBO world middleweight champion

An inspiring and gripping read…It is, in every sense of the word, a knockout!

Ralph Oates, British boxing historian and author

An inspirational read for any young immigrant — or person who feels unable or unworthy to be successful in life.

Dr, Fitzroy "The Whip" Vanderpool, Canadian boxing great and former WBF world super welterweight champion

So passionately written, Tiga’s Tale is a truly fantastic read.

Deborah Down, Honorary Secretary Commonwealth Boxing Council

This well-written, fast-paced story will ultimately leave you cheering for Tiga’s tremendous accomplishments both inside the ring and out

Louis Eisen, renowned boxing historian, writer and podcaster

Poignant, honest, emotional, and thoroughly detailed…Harrietha has scored a scintillating knockout!

Russ Anber, legendary trainer, corner man, colour commentator and boxing entrepreneur

A thoughtful and well-researched biography of one of Canada’s greatest fighters ever.

Andrew Applebaum, host of the Toronto Legends podcast

Tiga’s Tale offers a memorable account of one man’s stubborn pursuit of athletic excellence with enough detail and explanation to please the novice and the aficionado alike.

Literary Review of Canada