3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
You can take the boy out the ghetto, but you can't take the ghetto out the boy!!! You betta ask somebody!, Sep 21 2005
By Tazzyt2bossye "A Book Junkie fiending for a g... - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Hoodlum: A Novel (Paperback)
"Hoodlum" is a classic mobster tale African-American style. Sitting at the helm of the throne as the infamous "Godfather" is 'Poppa Clark'. He has played the game well and is ready to enjoy the fruits of his labor. Of couse he is ready to pass the crown to his first born, Tommy, to continue the legacy of the Clark family. Tommy is anxious to play his role, because as a new generation, he thinks 'changes need to be made.' But, a quick temper, smart mouth, and a hard head does not lead to a successful transition. Then enters, cool, calm, and classy Shai, the baby boy, that has been steered away from 'the life' his entire life. But the thrill of the streets is much to intriguing for Shai to ignore. Contemplative, manipulative, and wise, Shai quietly steps into the shoes that were designed for his feet only and rides the waves, tornadoes, and all the storms like no other. If you enjoy action, drama, edge of the seat suspense, this is the party you want to attend! K'wan has put it down Kwanstyle, in which it's like no other. Come and witness how our people overcome all obstacles gangsta wise!
If my opinion meant anything, my vote would be for the silver screen. I can envision Ving Rhames as 'Poppa Clark', Mekhi Phifer - Tommy, Omar Epps- Shae, and Larenz Tate- as Swan. Urban lit continue to let your light shine!!! They can't sleep on your forever!
4 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Harlem Stand Up, Aug 24 2005
By Ms. Georgie "Urban book lover" - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Hoodlum: A Novel (Paperback)
I hesitated buying this book at first, but the reviews that this book has recevied made me go buy it to see what I was missing. I seriously could not put this book down. K'wan took you into the belly of the beast. He showed you what Harlen is really like. Nothing sugar coated. Real life. As I read this book, I saw exactly what was being potrayed to me, it was like I was right there. I am offically a true fan of this author. This book is a must read.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Gritty Urban Novella, Aug 28 2006
By A. L. Jones "Thebrotheraj" - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Hoodlum: A Novel (Paperback)
I had the pleasure of meeting this author @ the Harlem Book Fair, in NYC during the summer where I purchased his "Street Dreams" book which he autographed for me. I was watching the way he handled himself out there dealing with all the people & decided to purchase a book from him.
Well..., after starting the book, I was definitely impressed & got to a point where I just couldn't put it down. After finishing it, I was amazed @ how well he weaved the tale together, the strength of his characters, & the way the last quarter of the book picked up steam & tied everything together neatly.
I decided to see if he was a flash in the pain or a new voice I should pay attention to. I ordered 2 more novels from him & now I am hooked... I started telling folks if they want gritty street type drama, give Kwan a read & see if you can feel his flow...
He's a cool guy, very personable, easy to talk to, & his personality doesn't give off the impression of the tales he's writing about. So he's gained a fan from NJ who will keep his eye on this Harlem, NYC talent.