Community Reviews

Rating(4.3 / 5.0, 20 votes)
5 stars
9(45%)
4 stars
7(35%)
3 stars
4(20%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
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20 reviews
July 14,2025
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I read this book a long time ago.

I read it because I was working in the same company as Solomon Jones.

I found the book completely engrossing. It didn't feel like a debut novel at all.

I was very glad that I read it. Then, I lent it to a friend and unfortunately, I never saw it again.

Now, I would love to re-read it and see how it holds up after another 10+ years that I've had in Philly.

I think I'll pick up another one of his books and observe how he has progressed as a writer.

I can truly say that he really has a great voice in his writing, which makes his works very captivating and engaging.

I'm looking forward to exploring more of his literary creations and experiencing the unique charm that his writing brings.
July 14,2025
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I first read this book back in 2001.

At that time, I was already deeply attracted by it.

This time around, I found it even better.

Solomon Jones is truly a phenomenal writer.

His words have a magical power that can draw readers in and make them unable to put the book down.

From the prologue of this book, I was on the edge of my seat.

The plot was so exciting and full of twists and turns that I couldn't wait to turn the page to see what would happen next.

And until the very last page of the book, I was still沉浸在 the wonderful story.

This book is definitely a must-read for all lovers of good literature.

It will take you on a thrilling journey and leave you with a deep impression.
July 14,2025
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I truly liked this book.

It's not your typical street fiction. Most times when you read about drugs in street fiction, it's typically about the drug dealer. You don't get to hear the voice of the addict. That's what I liked about this book. Although Solomon Jones may not be the first to do it, it's still a rarity.

It's so easy to see the drug addicted bum on the street corner begging for change at your annoyance and treat them as if they are a lesser people. Jones makes even the most shallow, judgemental person realize that crack addicts are people too. That's what I respect about this book.

It has been quite some years since I've read this book. I plan to reread it and then give a better review. This time, I hope to delve deeper into the characters and the story, to understand the author's intentions more fully. I'm looking forward to seeing if my initial impressions still hold true and if I can discover new aspects of the book that I may have missed the first time around.

I believe that this book has the potential to open people's eyes and change their perspectives on drug addicts. It's a powerful and important work that deserves to be read and discussed. I can't wait to embark on this rereading journey and share my new insights with others.
July 14,2025
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The book club is excited to announce that Mr. Jones will be our guest on Tuesday, the 28th of June. We are really looking forward to his presence and the insights he will bring. It's going to be a great opportunity to engage in interesting discussions and share our love for books.


We hope to see all of you at the Barns and Nobel in Willow Grove. This is a wonderful venue where we can gather and enjoy the company of fellow book lovers.


Don't miss out on this event. Mark your calendars and come along to meet Mr. Jones and have a great time with us at the book club.

July 14,2025
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This is a really good book.

It presents an interesting crime drama that is told from the point of view of four crack addicts who are involved in the murder of a high-profile City Official.

The story is fast-paced, which keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. It is also gritty, painting a vivid and realistic picture of the seedy underworld of drug addiction and crime.

However, at times, the plot can be a bit predictable. But this does not take away from the overall enjoyment of the book.

Overall, it is a very good read that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys crime dramas or stories that explore the darker side of human nature.

It offers a unique perspective on a familiar genre and is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
July 14,2025
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This is a very good book indeed.

I have always been deeply fascinated by the inner workings of how junkies think and live their lives.

The question of what drives them to embark on a life of hard drugs has always intrigued me.

This book has been extremely informative in addressing those very questions.

It provides valuable insights into the complex world of drug addiction, exploring the psychological, social, and environmental factors that contribute to this destructive lifestyle.

By reading this book, I have gained a better understanding of the challenges that junkies face and the difficult choices they make.

It has also made me more aware of the importance of prevention and treatment programs in helping those who are struggling with addiction.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about the topic of drug addiction.
July 14,2025
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I read this book subsequent to Philly author Solomon Jones giving a speech at Career Day in my school. His words regarding how his life experiences in North Philly, grappling with drug addiction and homelessness, influenced the writing of several of his novels truly intrigued me. I was completely engrossed in this novel; it was a real page-turner.


The story is set at the infamous intersection of Broad and Olney. It delves into the unlikely overlapping lives of some highly believable Philly characters. The vivid descriptions and the way the plot unfolds make it impossible to put the book down.


Solomon Jones, who now teaches writing at Temple University, has a remarkable talent for bringing the city of Philadelphia to life through his words. His personal experiences add a layer of authenticity to his novels that is truly captivating. I look forward to reading more of his work in the future.

July 14,2025
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Intense!

Here is an interesting account of the relationships between people we may not regularly interface with - drug users.

Drug users often exist in a world that is hidden from the mainstream. Their relationships are complex and multifaceted. Some drug users form bonds with others who share the same addiction, creating a sense of community within their group. These relationships can be both supportive and enabling.

On the other hand, drug users also have relationships with those who are trying to help them overcome their addiction, such as family members, friends, and healthcare professionals. These relationships can be filled with challenges and frustrations, as the user may resist treatment or relapse.

Understanding the relationships of drug users is important for developing effective treatment strategies and for helping them to reintegrate into society. By exploring these relationships, we can gain a deeper understanding of the human experience and the power of connection.
July 14,2025
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If you haven't read it yet, it's truly amazing. It's about real stuff that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story is filled with excitement and drama that will make you feel like you're a part of it. You'll be able to relate to the characters and their experiences, which will make it even more engaging. The author has done an excellent job of bringing the story to life and making it a must-read. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up this amazing article and get ready to be blown away!

July 14,2025
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While this book didn't dazzle with its prose or its thematic content,

it still managed to be an interesting and moving story. It has the power to make us step out of our comfort zones and empathize with people with whom we typically would not empathize. The author has crafted a narrative that challenges our preconceived notions and forces us to see the world from different perspectives.

Moreover, it is an exciting story filled with plot twists and diabolical plots. Just when you think you know what's going to happen, the author throws in a curveball that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The story is full of suspense and mystery, making it a page-turner from start to finish.

Overall, although the book may not be a literary masterpiece, it is a worthwhile read that offers both entertainment and food for thought. It reminds us that there is always more to people than meets the eye and that we should strive to understand and empathize with those who are different from us.
July 14,2025
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Is this a genre within a genre?

The reporter who crafts a novel from his newspaper articles?

Well, if this fellow, Jones, serves as any indication, at least one ends up with a beautifully written story.

It reads effortlessly, flowing smoothly even through subjects in which I had no interest.

However, the entire thing was larger than life.

It was as if the events and characters leaped off the page and into a world of their own.

The way Jones weaves together the narrative is truly remarkable.

He manages to bring a sense of authenticity and excitement to every scene.

Whether it's a description of a bustling city street or an intense courtroom drama, he makes it all come alive.

One can't help but be drawn in by the vivid imagery and engaging plot.

It's a testament to his skill as a writer that he can take the mundane and turn it into something extraordinary.

Overall, this is a work that defies easy categorization and leaves a lasting impression.

July 14,2025
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Philadelphia author Solomon Jones' first novel is set in North Philly during the 1990s, a time when crack cocaine reigned supreme.

It is truly fascinating to be able to step into the minds of crack smokers and understand their thoughts and experiences. The author does an excellent job of bringing these characters to life and making them relatable.

One of the things I particularly love about this book is the attention to local details. Jones vividly描绘s the streets, neighborhoods, and culture of North Philly, giving readers a sense of what it was like to live there during that era.

Overall, this is a compelling book that keeps you engaged from start to finish. It offers a unique perspective on a dark and often overlooked aspect of society, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in exploring the human condition.
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