Publisher's Description

What would make a young, gifted college student well postured to achieve her place in the American dream decide to pursue another dream - one that would force her to take food stamps and move into a violent urban community? What would sustain her for over two decades while she raised five children in a context of failed educational systems, lead poisoning, and chronic theft? What would eventually compel her to move and yet still embrace the issues of city?

This is one woman's story of a return to a city that many have fled. It is about the challenges, heartbreaks, lessons, and joys of a woman participating in the transformation of the city while being transformed herself.

This title includes a discussion guide at the end of the book.