For older students who get in trouble a lot, this autobiography by Walter Dean Myers has good lessons about rising above what you have been dealt and moving on. Boys who have been in trouble like this book. ( )

An interesting memoir recounting the difficulties of growing up smart and black, both adding to his sense of alienation. Writing simple and straightforward which nonetheless left me anxiously anticipating what would happen next. Includes good depictions of Harlem in the 1940's and 50's. ( )

The author paints a vivid picture of 1940's Harlem. Good for Freshman/Sophmore levels.

Myers writes about his childhood in Harlem during the 1940's and 1950's. Some chapters interesting; others dragged on. ( )

Walter Dean Myers recounts what life was like growing up in Harlem, NY during the 1940's and 1950's. Appropriate for middle school and beyond. ( )

Walter Dean Meyers rocks. Another great book that puts you in the narrator's shoes--this time it's the author. Fascinating look at life in Harlem in the 40s and 50s. Beautiful writing.