This is the inspiring memoir of an Afro-American male who grew up in the 1930s, 40s, and 50s when poverty and segregation were in bloom, yet defied the odds to become a science educator and greatly admired member of his community. He discusses the many impediments of "The Bottoms", the colorful yet complicated riverbank neighborhood where he grew up. He frankly points out the reasons he initially fell through the cracks and became a high school dropout before personal and professional triumph through education.

His life choices demonstrate that though the difficulty of overcoming one's circumstances may be the cause of falling, one does not have to remain down. In reading this memoir, seeking to discover and discuss the seminal events in the life of the author that allowed him to find a path to success will be beneficial to youth as they forge their own road through present day struggles.