Little A and Growing Up

About the Book

Growing Up is the story of a twelve-year-old boy who lives in an inner-city neighborhood in Memphis. So yes, it has gangs and some street language, but it’s also full of courage and love. Growing Up is a story made up of many stories. Each story has its own moral lesson. A note to parents and grandparents: This book will help open doors for you to talk with your son or grandson about important things, private things. It will help him have the courage to ask you the hard questions, maybe embarrassing questions. Boys today grow up in a world full of mass-media and misinformation. Our boys, your boys, need to know that it is okay to ask questions about anything. This book will help both of you open doors of communication and trust.

About the Author

Shirley Nelson Kersey, Ph.D. Readers of the books of fiction featuring Little A, a boy living in the projects of Memphis, are instantly aware that the writer is eminently qualified to focus on this young hero. Only a person who has taught in the inner city schools is able to create a fictional, yet realistic account of the life of a youngster struggling to find himself in this environment. John Chipley, whom the boys fondly have dubbed Mr. Chip, taught in Memphis inner-city schools for over fifteen years. In retirement he offers weekly volunteer sessions that focus on encouraging boys to read. This is a lofty goal, for the boys live in homes and neighborhood environments not structured to develop reading skills or dreams of career advancement. Mr. Chip’s goal surpasses development of reading ability to encourage the boys to enjoy this privilege. Chipley is formally prepared to teach, for he holds both Bachelor and Master of Education degrees. However, the most memorable aspect of his classroom presence is his heart. He cares deeply about each one of his students and is there for them both now and in the future. Through the persona of Little A, Chipley gives the boys a fictional character with whom they can identify. Little A’s life style echoes theirs. While reading this series of books, the boys witness someone they can relate to. Little A is a wonderful fictional character full of wisdom, character, adventure, and confidence.