What do Lyric Crenshaw, Juicy Brown, and Precious Paine have in common? They’re all girls from “around the way.”
In “Around the Way Girls 2,” readers find a new set of girls dealing with life on the streets of Brooklyn, N.Y. This sequel to “Around the Way Girls” is a collection of three short stories about young black women who are street smart, but still have a lot to learn about life.
Lyric, Juicy, and Precious all come from different backgrounds and face various trials and tribulations during their journeys from know-it-all teens to wiser, more mature young adults.
Kashamba Williams’ “The Life of Juicy Brown” is a hardcore look into the life of a young woman who grew up too fast for her own good. The 30-year-old Juicy is faced with constant struggles as the single mother of five children. However, she does not allow this to get in the way of her favorite pastimes, which include drinking, smoking, clubbing and other not so motherly activities.
“Diamond n Da Rough” by Thomas Long tells the story of young Precious Paine, the daughter of drug-addicted parents. Her difficult childhood causes her to become a hardened spirit who believes everyone is out to get her. Precious’ life consists of stealing and using men to get whatever
she wants. Her two best friends and her mother’s crack-
addicted friend join her in her schemes, which soon catch up with her. She believes that she has everything she ever wanted in life, but still feels that something is missing.
“Who Got Game?” by LaJill Hunt tells the story of self-proclaimed diva Lyric Crenshaw who is determined to be on top of her game. Lyric believes she has to use her assets to get what she wants in life, otherwise meaning she uses men for money and gifts. She vows to never fall in love, but after meeting Jeremiah, she begins to think twice about her vow and her scheming ways.
Each story of the lives of the young women was very entertaining and well written. The authors combined just the right amount of comedy, tragedy, and drama to make each story unique and interesting. The readers are able to relate to the characters’ situations and emotions. These stories will keep readers turning that next page, wondering what is going to happen next in the lives of these relatable, yet somewhat dysfunctional, ghetto superstars.
“Around the Way Girls 2,”Authors: Lajill Hunt, Kashamba Williams, Thomas LongPublisher: Urban BooksFormat: Paperback 304 pages List Price: $14.95