[rating:5]
Growing up in an urban environment, young Latino men often face limited opportunities and difficult choices. Some end up on paths that lead to serious consequences, including incarceration or the loss of life.
Occasionally, individuals manage to rise above those circumstances. Enter “Rise to Grace“, a memoir that tells a story of struggle and transformation, ending in a truly memorable way. The author, Angel Huertas, shares his story in a casual, conversational tone that makes the book feel like sitting down with a friend.
Huertas opens the story from the end, a strong writing technique that immediately pulls the reader in and builds curiosity about how he arrived at such a pivotal moment in his life.
From the first chapter, we learn about Angel’s difficult beginnings, raised without a father figure or consistent support in a challenging urban setting. Given those circumstances, it is understandable how he found himself drawn into criminal activity. As Tupac expresses in his song “Dear Momma”:
Now ain’t nobody tell us it was fair
No love from my daddy cause the coward wasn’t there
He passed away and I didn’t cry, cause my anger
wouldn’t let me feel for a stranger
They say I’m wrong and I’m heartless, but all along
I was lookin for a father he was gone
I hung around with the Thugs, and even though they sold drugs
They showed a young brother love
When people think of Williamsburg today, many picture a vibrant neighborhood filled with trendy restaurants and art galleries. Huertas describes an earlier era, a time when certain blocks carried real danger and the wrong turn could have serious consequences. He recounts his journey through Brooklyn’s streets, the choices he made, and the violent incident that ultimately led to a spiritual awakening and his “Rise to Grace.”
This memoir shares themes with Piri Thomas’ “Next Stop“, stories of Latino men facing tremendous adversity, narrowly escaping tragedy, and finding a new direction in life. This book offers a valuable perspective and stands as a meaningful cautionary tale for young people weighing the consequences of the choices before them.
Absolutely loved this book. It brought back alot of memories as I grew up in same area and attended the same school as the author. Angel Huertas’ His story was captivating from beginning to end! I couldnt put it down, a true page turner. This story that makes one have hope in life after street/thug life and is inspiring to who want to turn themselves around for the better. This book has all the makings of a great movie!!!!!!
He’s looking to make it a movie, and I’m looking forward to that happening! Can’t wait!
Just found Angel on the Jhs50 page. Definitely going to read this book. Lost contact with him many years ago. We were good friends. We use to break dance together. (Good old days)