WAR OF THE BLOODS IN MY VEINS examines a life wrought with sadness unknown to many Americans. Jiwe's transition from a child full of promise to the boy who commits his first drive-by at age 11 is a tragic tale of modern childhood. It is this pivotal moment when the reader knows that his relationship with the Bloods is no fleeting romance, but a long-term commitment. Neither the passing of friends, fears for his own safely, nor the guilt which plagues Jiwe, are enough to extricate him from the grip.
It is later, through a high school football coach, that Jiwe finds a substitute father; one of a few adults looking after his best interests. When he is recruited by Delaware State University on a football scholarship, he has every reason to look forward to a future in the NFL. Things are even looking up on the personal front, as he has found true love and is awaiting the birth of his first child. However, his past catches up with him and he is charged with attempted murder. Prison time, though lonely, allows Jiwe time to reflect on the true purpose of a gang; to protect and support the community. Now, he looks to reform the very concept of “gang culture”.
WAR OF THE BLOODS IN MY VEINS is a revelation for the vast majority of Americans, including those familiar with urban communities as well as those who see themselves as separate.
What Jiwe wants readers to know is that no one is separate or removed from the bleak truth related in his book and that, if ignored, the current definition of gang culture will claim many more victims.
Softback: 222 pages
Release Date: April 8, 2008
Publisher: Scribner
Height: 9.1 in
Width: 6.3 in
Price: $25.00
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"War of the Bloods in My Veins" challenges us with unrelenting openness and honesty to examine the consequences of abandoning our children. A must read for parents, care-givers, and policy makers.”
-Ilyasah Shabazz, daughter of Malcolm X
“The telling points of Morris’ tough narrative aren’t in the stereotypes (shockingly gruesome and, at times, oddly sexy), but in the sensitivity and intelligence of the characters. A survivor, Morris is a smart writer who reveals the haunting aspects of gang life.”
-Mark Eleveld, Booklist
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