This well written fictional account explores race relationships and the drug culture in America as seen through the eyes of Takuan Amaru, the son of an African American father and a Japanese mother. The author explores the assumptions and stereotypes reinforced by society, which can have a detrimental influence on one’s perception of self and the world. As the story evolves, we witness the trials and tribulations Takuan faces during his adolescent years. Thinking he has all the answers, he begins to engage in illegal drug dealing but his continuous attempts to get over may soon catch up with him. The narrative reflects not only some of American’s ills but the world at large when it comes to the issues that affect people of color on a day by day basis.

Being someone who is not familiar with basketball or football lingo I was surprised that I could relate to the sports analogies. I almost felt like I was there on the side lines watching the action go down. The author mixes in-depth analysis with gripping story-telling. It makes for quite an awesome read. I grew up in the 1980s and only read about how the flygirls and bboy culture took over African-American culture. It was nice to now also finally get a glimpse of what family life was like and the coming of age of a young black man.