About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is navigating a significant lapse in judgment, feeling lost in their transition to adulthood, or struggling to see how a past mistake can be transformed into a future purpose. This raw and honest memoir follows Jack Gantos as he recounts his real life journey from a directionless young man involved in a high stakes drug smuggling operation to a federal prisoner and, eventually, a celebrated author. It is a powerful exploration of accountability, the consequences of chasing easy money, and the redemptive power of the written word. Parents will appreciate how Gantos avoids glamorizing his past, instead offering a gritty, realistic look at life behind bars and the hard work required to rebuild a life. It is an ideal pick for older teens who value authenticity and need to see that one terrible choice does not have to define their entire existence.
