This book presents the story of a young boy who overcame the obstacles of a neglectful home life, juvenile crime, and abusive foster parents, to become a successful professional. It provides an account of growing up in poverty and neglect, explaining the complexities of juvenile gangs and deviant behavior. The book also discusses the shortcomings of the foster care system and provides recommendations for how to improve it. The eight chapters are as follows: (1) "The Blue Collar Scholar: Life in the Ivy League"; (2) "The Early Years in New Haven"; (3) "Divorce, Desertion, and Desperation"; (4) "Runnin' and Bangin' in the Streets"; (5) "They Called Me Oreo: Race in the Inner City"; (6) "Neglect, Abuse, and State Intervention"; (7) "Culture Shock and Labeling"; and (8) "Final Thoughts." A selected bibliography is attached. Each chapter includes references. (SM)