"We are spiritual beings trying to master a human experience; not human beings in search of spirituality."
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Ghetto-Logik by Jerome "Guydance" Jewet Trafford Publishing
book review by Michael Radon
In this nonfiction outreach title, the author offers solutions to the plight of low-income urban citizens through faith. With a criminal past and having reaped the consequences of that lifestyle, Guydance draws parallels between his young days hustling and his efforts now to obtain a more spiritual wealth. Stories and ideas are shared in short tales or topical monologues that give a perspective from inside the ghetto. Using a marriage of religious morals, African heritage, and appreciation for hip hop culture, the author lays out his vision, sometimes lyrically, in the hopes of improving the lives of all the people he sees stuck in a vicious circle of events that can span generations. With a balance of the direct approach and the parable style of preaching, the author wants "ghetto-logik" to make a positive impact in his New York neighborhood and beyond.
Addressing the readers directly, this book wastes no time in outlining its mission statement. Speaking from experience and from the heart, there is a lot of honesty both in the desire to make things better in the projects and in resisting the power of constant temptation. With short chapters and a variety of topics, readers can draw daily inspiration or improve their lives one aspect at a time. The balance of fiction and non-fiction, as well as pragmatism and idealism makes for a well-rounded read no matter who thumbs through it. Those stuck in the loop will find light at the end of the tunnel, and those who are outside looking in will be compelled to contribute to fixing a serious problem in our country.