Overview

The Crack Era: The Rise, Fall, and Redemption of Kevin Chiles chronicles one of the most treacherous periods in New York City's history. As told by a man The New York Times once described as, ""The biggest drug lord in Harlem since Nicky Barnes,"" Chiles lays bare the harrowing exploits of the narcotics trade Uptown during the late '80s and early '90s -- a world where the lust for freebase cocaine set off a veritable gold rush that turned ghetto boys into young millionaires almost overnight. ""Baseheads"" wreaked havoc on the black community. What's worse, upper Manhattan became the epicenter of murder and mayhem as drug-related killings pushed the city's annual death toll well into the thousands. A teenager at the time, Kevin earned a rep' as a boss among bosses and, along with a handful of hustlers from his 'hood, he would directly influence the very music and fashion that ushered in the golden age of hip hop. The crack epidemic parlayed money, power, and respect for Kev but it also took his freedom as well as the lives of close friends and family. Now, this candid memoir exposes liars, dispels urban myths, and sheds light on an otherwise dark epoch that has bittersweet implications for many today. Having seen and survived it all, one of America's most iconic street figures recounts a bygone era of fast cash and high stakes hustling in Harlem.

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9780979171055

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This book is a BESTSELLER! It is more than just a cautionary Bronx tale, the Crack Era is a gold mine of teachable moments and an insightful historical treatise on a period of time (in the 80's) that many would agree, was almost as impactful on our society as the Civil Rights era. Kevin Chiles gives us the rare perspective of a transformational leader baptized by the fire of his own personal experiences within the confines of the Game . In my opinion, this book would be well received in the realm of academia/education. - Carl Hall This book is a straight-talking first-hand account of the inner development and movement of the CRACK ERA. For those that lived through it, this book serves as a throwback to a different time... A view from the inside out. for those who did not live it first hand.... this book serves as an account of how it all played out. Either way... GREAT READ... I truly appreciate the vulnerability of the writer. in today's age, we have become accustomed to just being in the know about the lives of others..... BUT they have NO obligation to share ... I appreciate KEVIN CHILES FOR HIS HONESTY IN SHARING - Bisi Ruckett I really learned so much about the Crack Era I once lived in as a child from Mr. Chile's book. Although tough decisions were made and some will judge; Mr. Chile's book is raw and real. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn about a stand-up guy who survived a tough time in US history with gains and losses but never cooperated with the Feds and allowed his family to walk the streets with their heads high because of it. - Dora Danner Words would not suffice. So I'll spare a review I simply encourage you to not only purchase this book, but to allow it to braid its principles with your own walk of life. I appreciate the transparency Kev. - Ernest Jeffers Jr.

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