In this raw, unflinching, and sometimes shocking memoir, Steve Evans takes readers on an extraordinary journey through the highs and lows of his life. Skatá recounts Steve’s tumultuous battle with his drug and gambling addictions fueling the consequential spree of prolific crimes that sustained his dangerous existence on the fringes of society.
From the scorching streets of the Phoenix Valley to the dazzling neon lights of Las Vegas, through the rugged landscapes of Big Sky country, and the peaceful beach communities along California's Pacific Coast, Steve's story is set against some of America's most picturesque backdrops.
Amid the turmoil and self-destruction, there lies a powerful tale of redemption. As Steve navigates his way through his darkest moments, he uncovers the strength and resilience needed to reclaim his life.
Skatá is not just a cautionary tale; it’s a testament to the human spirit's capacity for change and the enduring power of family and hope.
$500,000 was gone in just under 8 months.
The life, the life, the life. Stevie and her two friends were gone about five or six weeks before the money ran out. Strippers are just like THAT. We had gotten into this whole blown-up argument about something I can’t remember anymore. The bottom line was Stevie left. Nay left. Brooke left.
I mean, less than a year and I had blown through the entire settlement; while snorting, smoking, and screwing my way back into the poor house. It happens so quickly. I mean, I had dope, and I could sell some of that, but I was doing so much, that the cash I was making was just getting dropped back into the process for precursors, chemicals, and other supplies.
Around this time an ounce of glass was running between $800 and $1000 all day, every day. My shit was premium, and I was getting like $1800. Even at that price, I was losing money because of how much I was using, and with the cost of acquiring raw materials jumping all the time, it was getting worse and worse.
It makes no sense. I get that. If you have never been wrapped up in the dope game, it is hard to comprehend the amount of money and resources it takes just to remain broke as fuck all the time. I used to think it was crazy when I would read somewhere or see it on a TV show that an addict had a $200 or $ 300-a-day habit. I was calling bullshit on all of that. The truth was, my habits at several times in my life were considerably larger than that. And then I had my gambling issues.
Steve Evans has been a gardener, bartender, gold prospector, mushroom farmer, social worker, librarian, and journalist. He lives in a small town in New Zealand, but writes books based in Europe. He has published Evilheart, The Kleiber Monster, Savonarola's Bones, Demented, The Russian Idea, Tobi's Game and Kaos. He dreams of a life in Europe.
I just so happened to walk into a book store the other day and had the pleasure of meeting author Steve Evans. He was so charming and handsome. We talked a little about the book and it seemed so interesting that I had to buy it. This is not the kind of book that I would normally read but I was intrigued. Wow! Once I started i couldn't stop! This book brought out so many different emotions. There were times that I laughed out loud and times that I had tears in my eyes! I highly recommend this book and hope there will be more in the future. Maybe even a movie. Steve proves that the human spirit is strong enough to overcome addiction. This is one of the best books I have read in a long time!
Skata is a true story that offers a gripping and emotional journey through real-life experiences. From the very first pages, the book drew me in with its raw storytelling and heartfelt narrative. Skata is a powerful and inspiring read that showcases the strength of the human spirit and a tale of resilience and hope. Evans's journey through his darkest moments leads him to uncover the strength needed to reclaim his life. His story serves not only as a cautionary tale but also as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for change and the enduring power of family and hope. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys heartfelt, true stories of resilience and courage.
WOW! Couldn’t wait to turn the page to see what other kind of mess he was going to get himself into. Even if this was not based on a true story or a real person, I would have still found it hard to put down. I would have finished the book in one day if it weren’t for having to go to work. Turbulent life based on decisions made mainly to support a drug habit. God bless his family for continually reaching out and helping. I would definitely recommend this book.
Where to begin! I would have given the book a 5 star rating but for misspelling and grammatical errors which made me believe the book had not been edited. It is raw and untouched and right from the horses mouth so to speak. Some of the language and graphic nature attest to it. It’s hard to believe that Steve is still alive to even tell his story. There are parts that are so unbelievable I question its truth but then along comes more of the story and a moment or passage I, from knowing who he is, can attest to being real. How can one person with so much potential to be great, do so much damage to his life? I would have loved to know more of how he was feeling at times but then I think with all those drugs is there really any feelings left inside a person? The book left me sad for Steve which I guess makes it a great read because it leaves you emotional. I recommend you read Steve’s book, putting yourself in his place throughout his journey, thinking about how he came out at the end of it, how you would have come out feeling. To the boy from Butler, Wisconsin- we are all very thankful you made it out the other end of this story to see a better kind of life ahead of you. Keep reaching for the positive each day brings and thank you for sharing your story.
Must read! my friend randomly met this author in a bar in Sheboygan Wisconsin. Sounds like he's as charismatic as he is in writing this book. Steve signed a copy for both my friend and I and I have plans to track this guy down for a bar bookclub session next time I'm in Wisconsin.
The book itself is the rawest I've ever seen someone write about their life. It felt like I was reading Steve's diary. This book encompasses every single human emotion. I rooted for him throughout the whole book.