This is a very genuine story of growing up in poverty in Jamaica, told with the patois. Uton, or Tall T, as he's known, lives with three brothers, twin sisters and his mother. His father, Brother John, is a mighty figure in town. He's big and strong, can row faster than any man and plays the devil in the Jonkonnu dance at Christmas. Problem is, he's moved in with the women next door after drinking some soup, and he gambles away any money he has. Tall T can no longer go to school as the new rule states your uniform must not be tattered. He takes himself to the library where he takes charge of his own learning.

A touching story of a difficult life and how this boy makes his own way to manhood. Recommend for 5th and up. A quick read. ( )