“From the Hood to the Hill: A Story of Overcoming” speaks volumes of the importance of mothers:Barry Black preaches the gospel of matriarchal appreciation as he describes the strength and wisdom imparted to him by his mother and wife. He provides carefully written insight concerning the singular importance of God in the life of the human being who yearns for success. This is the best “self-help” book that I have read. It is a must read for students. Indeed, it is a wonderful example of African-American autobiography. And just to think–his fore- parents were enslaved Africans, and he prayed himself out of the ghetto. My suggestion: This book should be read by every African-American male child. What a story; indeed, what a compelling story!