Ticket to Exile: A Memoir

by Adam David Miller

Cultural Writing. Memoir. African American Studies. At age nineteen, A. D. Miller sat in a jail cell. His crime? He passed a white girl a note that read, "I would like to get to know you better." For this he was accused of attempted rape. TICKET TO EXILE recounts Miller's coming-of-age in Depression-era Orangeburg, South Carolina. A closet rebel who successfully evades the worst strictures of a racially segregated small town, Miller reconstructs the sights, sounds, and social complexities of the pre-civil rights South. By the time he is forced into exile, we realize that this fate was inevitable for a young man too intelligent and aware of the limitations of his society to remain there without disastrous consequences.

237 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2007

Reviews

[Patrick · Rating 2 out of 5]

There are some interesting observations and impressions of growing up black in a small southern town, and at its best this is a window into that world. However, this would have been better as an extended essay. There is not enough material here for a novel, and the writing would have benefited from a good editor. The central story takes up about 10% of the book, and the resolution of that narrative is pretty anti-climactic.

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

A friend gave me this book written by her brother-in-law. And I found it most interesting as I grew up in the South and could relate. Different written style that was refreshing. Surprised by this gift and how much I enjoyed it!

[Arnoldo Garcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ticket to Exile is the memoirs of an African American who recounts his childhood as he sits in jail, accused of "attempted rape" -- passing a note to a white girl where he wrote "I would like to get to know you...."

[Red · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adam David Miller will be speaking at Red Hill this Saturday the 26th at 7pm. All are highly encouraged to come out and hear this very inspiring, influential man.
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[Karin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surprisingly gripping for a book told in such an even, dignified sometimes humorous voice. Every American should read this.