52 pages • 1 hour read
We Beat the Street: How A Friendship Pact Led to Success
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Book Brief
We Beat the Street
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | YA | Published in 2005194
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Newark, New Jersey • 1990s
2005
YA
10-14 years
860L
Super Short Summary
We Beat the Street by George Jenkins, Rameck Hunt, Sampson Davis, and Sharon M. Draper follows the lives of three friends from Newark, NJ, who overcome the challenges of growing up in violent, drug-ridden neighborhoods to become doctors. With the support of dedicated teachers and mentors, and each other’s friendship, they navigate through pressures, crimes, and personal setbacks, ultimately achieving their dreams through education and perseverance. The book contains descriptions of drug use and violence.
Inspirational
Challenging
Hopeful
Emotional
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
3,031 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
We Beat the Street by George Jenkins, Rameck Hunt, Sampson Davis, and Sharon M. Draper is praised for its inspirational true story of friendship and ambition. Reviews highlight its realistic portrayal of overcoming adversity and the power of mentorship. Criticisms include occasional preachiness and a somewhat simplistic narrative. Overall, it’s an uplifting read suitable for young adults.
Who Should Read We Beat the Street?
Readers who enjoy We Beat the Street by George Jenkins, Rameck Hunt, Sampson Davis, and Sharon M. Draper are often inspired by real-life stories of overcoming adversity, particularly in urban settings. Fans of The Pact by these authors or Breaking Night by Liz Murray will find this book equally motivational and engaging.
3,031 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
George Jenkins
George Jenkins
A determined and clear-sighted young man with a talent for dentistry, who often acts as the voice of reason among his friends, encouraging practical aspirations.
Sampson Davis
Sampson Davis
Inspired by an early hospital visit to pursue emergency medicine, he navigates the challenges of peer pressure and aspirations of quick wealth with the support of friends.
Ma
Ma
Rameck's caring grandmother, whose unwavering belief in him and advocacy for his education bolster his confidence and success.
Reggie
Reggie
A local martial arts enthusiast who imparts wisdom to Sampson, focusing on mental strength and self-control rather than physical combat.
Miss Johnson
Miss Johnson
George's influential third-grade teacher who inspires her students to dream beyond their immediate surroundings through exposure to the arts and encouragement.
Carla
Carla
A supportive mentor who guides the three friends during their studies, offering encouragement and assistance in both academic and personal challenges.
194
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Newark, New Jersey • 1990s
2005
YA
10-14 years
860L
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