Review: You don't Have a Story: Growing Up Black and Poor in Scottsdale Arizona by Zachary Q. Watson

My Review: 

I enjoy reading stories about people and their lives, I’ve learned that this past year. That being said, I don’t think I could make one of myself—so props to the author.

The author and I are actually around the same age, so I get a lot of the references and I understand some of the things going on without context. I do wish some things weren’t as explained, but I get it, because not everyone would know what these things are or would understand just what it is or does right off the bat.

Definitely pick this book up if you want a different perspective on growing up.

4 stars.

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Summary: 

Zachary Watson, a young black kid from Chicago moves to an upscale rich white neighborhood in Scottsdale Arizona with his single mother and older sister. Overwhelmed by anger, racism, and the bullying of his classmates, he spends his formative years trying to prove his detractors wrong and rise above the stereotype labels they place on him. Zachary loses his friend and collaborator to cancer. A journey that forces him to discover more about himself than he ever thought possible. 

Growing up Black and Poor in Scottsdale Arizona is Zach’s first literary creation, a memoir that shows the unjust and racist side of modern American society and highlights the struggles that people of color have in growing up in racially biased communities. Through his book, Zach intends to teach self-love, healing, and the art of dealing with prejudiced behaviors to achieve success in life. This memoir follows the memories of Zach's childhood to coming of age in Scottsdale, Arizona, highlighting the trials and tribulations of adolescence and adulthood. It also shows the difficulties and challenges with dating as a African-American male. And due to politics and lack of funds Zach couldn't quite make it as a music artist. A dream he had been chasing ever since he was a kid. Zach also deals with depression, hardships, rejection, and heartbreak. This book is a journey through the life of a young man raised in an all-white world and how he could never quite fit in.

Amazon