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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Heaven Is a Playground summary
Rick Telander
Brief summary
Heaven Is a Playground is a captivating non-fiction book by Rick Telander that delves into the world of street basketball in 1970s Brooklyn. It offers a raw and honest portrayal of the players, their struggles, and their unrelenting passion for the game.
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Heaven Is a Playground
Summary of key ideas
An Inside Look at Brooklyn's Basketball Culture
In Heaven Is a Playground by Rick Telander, we are transported to the streets of New York City in the 1970s, where the game of basketball is more than just a sport - it's a way of life. Telander, a former college basketball player, immerses himself in the gritty world of playground basketball, particularly at Foster Park in Brooklyn. Here, he meets a colorful cast of characters, from the talented players to the hustlers, and experiences firsthand the unique culture surrounding the game.
As Telander delves deeper into this world, he becomes fascinated by the players' raw talent and their relentless drive to make it big in the NBA. He introduces us to individuals such as the charismatic Fly Williams, who is hailed as a local legend. However, despite their exceptional skills, most of these players are trapped in a cycle of poverty and violence, making their dreams seem increasingly unattainable.
The Reality of the Game
Through Heaven Is a Playground, Telander sheds light on the harsh realities these young men face. While the basketball court offers them an escape from their daily struggles, it also serves as a microcosm of the wider societal issues prevalent in their community. The author doesn't shy away from discussing the prevalent drug culture, gang violence, and systemic racism that these players confront daily.
Despite these challenges, the players remain fiercely dedicated to the game, often playing for hours on end, honing their skills on the cracked concrete courts. Telander's admiration for their passion and resilience is evident throughout the book, as he captures their heart-wrenching stories with empathy and understanding.
The Role of Basketball in the Community
Beyond the personal struggles, Heaven Is a Playground also explores the unifying power of basketball within the community. The park becomes a melting pot, bringing together individuals from different backgrounds, all bound by their love for the game. Telander vividly describes the electric atmosphere during the games, with spectators cheering, trash-talking, and betting on the outcomes.
Moreover, the park serves as a safe haven for these young men, providing a sense of belonging and camaraderie. It's a place where they can momentarily forget their troubles and simply enjoy the thrill of competition. Telander's portrayal of the unique basketball subculture in Foster Park is both captivating and bittersweet.
An Unforgettable Journey
In conclusion, Heaven Is a Playground offers a poignant exploration of basketball's profound impact on the lives of inner-city youth. Telander's narrative is a compelling mix of sports journalism and sociological study, providing a rare glimpse into a world that exists beyond the NBA glamour. Through his immersive storytelling, we gain a deeper understanding of the individuals behind the game, their aspirations, and the harsh realities they confront.
Ultimately, Heaven Is a Playground is a powerful testament to the resilience and spirit of these young athletes, who continue to play the game they love, despite the odds stacked against them. It's an unforgettable journey through the heart of Brooklyn's basketball culture, leaving a lasting impression on the reader long after the final buzzer.
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What is Heaven Is a Playground about?
Heaven Is a Playground is a captivating non-fiction book by Rick Telander that delves into the gritty world of street basketball in Brooklyn, New York. Telander immerses himself in the lives of the local players, offering a raw and honest portrayal of their struggles, dreams, and the game that gives them hope. Through vivid storytelling, the book sheds light on the complexities of inner-city life and the power of basketball as a means of escape and redemption.
Heaven Is a Playground Review
Heaven Is a Playground (1990) delves into the world of inner-city basketball in Brooklyn, showcasing the raw talent and challenges faced by aspiring athletes. Here's why this book is a captivating read:
- Offers a realistic portrayal of the struggles and ambitions of young basketball players striving for success against all odds.
- Provides a glimpse into the streetball culture of New York City, depicting the unique environment where talent thrives and dreams are born.
- The stories shared are compelling and authentic, immersing readers in the high-stakes world of urban basketball without a dull moment.
Who should read Heaven Is a Playground?
Readers who are passionate about basketball and want to gain a deeper understanding of the sport
Individuals interested in the intersection of sports and urban culture
Those who enjoy immersive and insightful non-fiction narratives
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Book summaries like Heaven Is a Playground
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Heaven Is a Playground FAQs
What is the main message of Heaven Is a Playground?
The main message of Heaven Is a Playground emphasizes the transformative power of basketball in inner-city Chicago.
How long does it take to read Heaven Is a Playground?
Reading Heaven Is a Playground takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in under 15 minutes.
Is Heaven Is a Playground a good book? Is it worth reading?
Heaven Is a Playground is worth reading for its raw portrayal of urban basketball culture and personal growth.
Who is the author of Heaven Is a Playground?
The author of Heaven Is a Playground is Rick Telander.
What to read after Heaven Is a Playground?
If you're wondering what to read next after Heaven Is a Playground, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Simply Complexity by Neil F. Johnson
- Trust Me, I’m Lying by Ryan Holiday
- The World Without Us by Alan Weisman
- The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz