56 pages • 1 hour read
Fist, Stick, Knife, Gun: A Personal History of Violence
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Book Brief
192
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
New York City • 1950s
1995
Adult
18+ years
1020L
Super Short Summary
Fist Stick Knife Gun by Geoffrey Canada is a 1995 memoir about his upbringing in the South Bronx from age four to young adulthood, showcasing the progression of violence he faced. Beginning with his father's departure and the theft of his brother's jacket, the memoir details his education in the codes of street survival, his encounters with escalating violence, and his eventual move to a small college in Maine.
Informative
Gritty
Challenging
Suspenseful
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
3,106 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Geoffrey Canada's Fist Stick Knife Gun offers a powerful memoir on urban violence and youth. Critics praise its raw, compelling narrative and insightful social commentary. However, some find the storytelling occasionally disjointed. Overall, it's acclaimed for its honest portrayal of systemic issues impacting marginalized communities.
Who Should Read Fist Stick Knife Gun?
Readers who would enjoy Fist Stick Knife Gun by Geoffrey Canada are likely interested in social justice, youth empowerment, and urban studies. Fans of Alex Kotlowitz's There Are No Children Here or Wes Moore's The Other Wes Moore will find Canada’s memoir thought-provoking, with its firsthand look at violence and resilience in inner-city America.
3,106 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mike
Mike
An older boy who befriends Canada and serves as a guide and protector, sharing an interest in books and serious discussions.
Canada’s Mother
Canada’s Mother
A loving and determined single mother of four boys, who strives to support her family on her own in a difficult neighborhood.
John
John
Canada’s second-oldest brother, whose early experiences on the street foreshadow changes Canada will undergo.
Butchie
Butchie
A large but gentle boy who unintentionally teaches Canada about the harsh reality of being perceived as weak in their neighborhood.
192
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
New York City • 1950s
1995
Adult
18+ years
1020L
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