I read this book because my son had to read it and I wanted to be able to discuss it with him. Due to the urban idioms, at first I found it difficult to understand the dialogue. Once I figured it out I found the book rather interesting. A 13 year old boy, Benjie, from Harlem is faced with several disturbing choices. Eventually he puts himself in a situation that he is not mature enough to handle and makes a bad choice, which is to try heroin. Once he makes that choice he struggles with the acceptance of being a heroin addict and repeatedly denies it. Yet, all the signs of an addict exist. Ms. Childress uses other characters to explain the ripple effect that occurs in the boy's life and how it has affected the other lives. I recommend the book, however, it is a tough read for young people.