From a young black male's prospective growing up in the rural South, the author lived and experienced what life offered during the period. Beginning from early childhood, the author tells about his desire to learn and his pursuit of limited educational opportunities. Sections of the book give some of the author's first time experiences, many of historical significance. Throughout his growing up years, strong relationships with his siblings and his father were readily apparent. After giving rich accounts of his youth, the author shares his experiences as a young soldier during World War II, and lastly, experiences he believes contributed to his life calling-that of being an educator and mentor to youths.