Buck: A Memoir

M.K. Asante

Aug 2013 · Sold by Random House

About this ebook

“A story of surviving and thriving with passion, compassion, wit, and style.”—Maya Angelou 
 
“In America, we have a tradition of black writers whose autobiographies and memoirs come to define an era. . . . Buck may be this generation’s story.”—NPR
 
A coming-of-age story about navigating the wilds of urban America and the shrapnel of a self-destructing family, Buck shares the story of a generation through one original and riveting voice. MK Asante was born in Zimbabwe to American parents: his mother a dancer, his father a revered professor. But as a teenager, MK was alone on the streets of North Philadelphia, swept up in a world of drugs, sex, and violence.
 
MK’s memoir is an unforgettable tale of how one precocious, confused kid educated himself through gangs, rap, mystic cults, ghetto philosophy, and, eventually, books. It is an inspiring tribute to the power of literature to heal and redeem us.

Ratings and reviews

I appreciated the real language and first person narration as if the events were happening in the now. His detailed account of moments, descriptions and creative analogies allowed my mind to see pictures, as well as video as I read. I'm proud to say that I attend Morgan State University where Mr. Malo teaches. It's so refreshing and rewarding to witness the remarkable strength of a young black man in our unfortunate society today that defied the odds.

This was an enjoyable read. There is something about MK's writing style that is so authentic, effortless and clear. I found myself easily relating to the humanness that shines through the characters within this very personal piece of literature. Highly recommended.

I think its a good book to be honest 💯👌we reading this book in English class😄😊

About the author

MK Asante is an award-winning writer, filmmaker, hip-hop artist, and professor of creative writing and film at Morgan State University.