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Hood Struggle
In a place where Drugs, Domestic Violence, Incarceration, H.I.V-Aids, and Murders are found and encountered on a daily basis, America tends to omit the struggles of the ghetto. This is a book that will reveal the definition of the hood through three sentiments. Antoine is young, ambitious, stubborn, and fearless. Being the stepson of a pastor, at thirteen Antoine gets fully introduced to the street life. 70 percent of Antoine’s outlook tells him to “get it how you live”, while the other 30 percent says “never lose your integrity”. In a world that’s full of gunshots, sirens, and rap music, Antoine gets caught up – But regardless of the crime, a son’s love for his mother will always be justified. Monique represents the female sentiments of the ghetto. Being from the projects, Monique and her home girls are only the typical clubbing click. Even though Monique would rather stay at home and cater to her man Lester, if Lester is never at the house his self, what else is there for her to do? While one of Monique’s home girls lives the life of promiscuity, Monique only wants her man – But if Lester skeletons come out the closet, should she still want him? What’s a hood without its glitter? Jersey Phat will represent the silver and gold glitter of South Side Baton Rouge. Jersey Phat theory is simple; get money, stay out of jail, and shine hard! While Jersey Phat is no doubt a trendsetter, he encounters the rich and famous, and will go down in history as another ghetto legend.
- GenresNonfiction
255 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2013
20 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 23, 2019
My son bought this book for me when we were at the French Quarter Market on Mother's Day. He talked with Mr. Guillard and was very impressed with him and wanted to support him. At first I had a hard time accepting the writing style and grammatical errors, but my opinion changed as I understood that this was written in the vernacular of today's black youth. I admire Mr. Guillard for the story he told and his efforts to publish similar stories at A. R. Publications.
March 26, 2019
This is a spot-on choice for an "Own Voices" reading prompt. Guillard's book is a compelling read, if somewhat unsettling for happy middle class readers. He portrays ghetto life from a street "nigga's" view (I respectfully use his word, which I have no real right to use) in their own mode of language. His writing does not come across as ignorant or uneducated, though. While the content can be unsettling with freeflowing drug use and selling, rampant loose sexuality and violence, the characters captivate you with their interconnections, dysfunctions, hopes, and ties of the heart. This book gives you a ground level view of what life is like when you're a male teen in the ghetto, and by extension, those of the people around him.
I give this 2 stars for personal liking, 3 stars for content, 4 for captivation and 5 for value. I would love to read any follow-ons that Mr. Guillard writes.
I give this 2 stars for personal liking, 3 stars for content, 4 for captivation and 5 for value. I would love to read any follow-ons that Mr. Guillard writes.
April 20, 2018
In a tradition of cotton candy literary voices Guillard delivers a hard-edged honest account of life in the Baton Rouge hood where he grew up as a kid. It is an intriguing coming of age story. The characters are well developed and believable. Hood struggles is a story that needs to be told. I look forward to his next installment in the trilogy.
April 28, 2022
I loved it! As an Assistant Public Defender in Chicago for 30 years, I did not need a translation of a book written in "Street Ebonics". The typical white American simply has zero idea of ghetto street life and the "Hustle".
I imagine the "lick" on the dice game was fictional, as deadly revenge would have been a given.
I imagine the "lick" on the dice game was fictional, as deadly revenge would have been a given.
January 17, 2020
I bought this book at the French Quarter in New Orleans. I like how raw and authentic it is. It is a very interesting read and teaches a lot about the culture in the hood that I wasn't aware of.
June 17, 2020
I bought this book while at an open air market in New Orleans in 2019. The author was the seller and signed it for me. I finally got around to picking it up and I enjoyed the story. I'll admit the book was a bit difficult for me to read due to the street language it was written in, but once I got into the rhythm and understood the language it was a cool story about living on the streets of New Orleans in our times.
January 8, 2026
Plot
A teenager living in the projects in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, deals with family troubles and street troubles.
My Analysis
I know that’s not much of a blurb, but Amazon didn’t have any details.
So, where to begin with this? While in New Orleans for Bouchercon, I met this guy on the sidewalk selling this book. I looked it over, took a picture of the cover, and told the guy I’d think about it since I like to support emerging authors. Later, I purchased the book through Amazon.
It begins with a foreword from the author stating that while a lot of the book is true, he did embellish and created fictional characters.
This tells the story of thirteen-year-old Guillard in Baton Rouge, whose mother is shacked up with a pastor who is abusive. The kid sells drugs, drinks, smokes weed, and has sex with various girls… and all his friends are the same.
The book also explores the story of Monique, Guillard’s aunt, who is pregnant, yet still smokes and drinks and parties with friends. the father of her baby, Lester, is in prison for gun possession (arrested while on his way to pick up a shipment of cocaine). Monique already has two young children, but cares for Guillard.
We also see Lester and his story when he is released from prison doing a heist, and the story of his friends living it up in Florida.
The book moves through Guillard’s story until he’s fifteen and attracted to a girl, but he runs into trouble along the way. Serious trouble.
So, I like the realism, and except for the fictional characters, it’s all real. This is how life is for so many teens, and it really makes you realize how crappy our inner cities are. You understand that this is nationwide, and this isn’t even the worst set of stories out there.
I like characters, although there were so many, I lost track of who was who at times. They came and went so much, they sort of blended. Maybe that was the point, that everyone is in the same boat spiraling down the toilet, and only the resilient few escape.
The storytelling is honest and straightforward with the language of the streets and the black, inner city culture. So, there’s vulgarity and slurs.
Okay, now for some honest critique. While I am okay with many of the words used, many taken from the Urban Dictionary, I am not okay with blatant mistakes in spelling/punctuation/grammar. This book should have been edited to help the reader get through it. The author used incorrect words numerous times, and I stumbled each time.
The short chapters were fine, but this missed… something. With the title, I wanted a goal that the main character wanted to achieve and overcoming—or not—the obstacles. One central theme might have been basic survival in a world where drug sales and sex and clubbing and fights and murder are the norm. While that’s fine, I don’t think it’s enough. It’s too broad.
There are storylines here. We see an ending to one of Monique’s friends (however, Crystal and Evet dropped out of the book with no “where are they now” scene). We see the conclusion to Lester’s story. We see some of Guillard’s friends go the way of so many.
Even Guillard’s “story” has an ending. Sort of. I see there is a second book in the works, so maybe we’ll get more in that.
However, this book felt a bit disjointed, and I cannot ignore the egregious errors. I admire the effort of the writer to put this story down and get published, but he should have taken time to have it properly edited. It would have been so much stronger and had more impact.
So, usually, I’d rank this type of book pretty low with the numerous errors. Probably down to at least a Yellow. However, I think the rough running story itself moved it up to:
Camouflage Belt
A teenager living in the projects in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, deals with family troubles and street troubles.
My Analysis
I know that’s not much of a blurb, but Amazon didn’t have any details.
So, where to begin with this? While in New Orleans for Bouchercon, I met this guy on the sidewalk selling this book. I looked it over, took a picture of the cover, and told the guy I’d think about it since I like to support emerging authors. Later, I purchased the book through Amazon.
It begins with a foreword from the author stating that while a lot of the book is true, he did embellish and created fictional characters.
This tells the story of thirteen-year-old Guillard in Baton Rouge, whose mother is shacked up with a pastor who is abusive. The kid sells drugs, drinks, smokes weed, and has sex with various girls… and all his friends are the same.
The book also explores the story of Monique, Guillard’s aunt, who is pregnant, yet still smokes and drinks and parties with friends. the father of her baby, Lester, is in prison for gun possession (arrested while on his way to pick up a shipment of cocaine). Monique already has two young children, but cares for Guillard.
We also see Lester and his story when he is released from prison doing a heist, and the story of his friends living it up in Florida.
The book moves through Guillard’s story until he’s fifteen and attracted to a girl, but he runs into trouble along the way. Serious trouble.
So, I like the realism, and except for the fictional characters, it’s all real. This is how life is for so many teens, and it really makes you realize how crappy our inner cities are. You understand that this is nationwide, and this isn’t even the worst set of stories out there.
I like characters, although there were so many, I lost track of who was who at times. They came and went so much, they sort of blended. Maybe that was the point, that everyone is in the same boat spiraling down the toilet, and only the resilient few escape.
The storytelling is honest and straightforward with the language of the streets and the black, inner city culture. So, there’s vulgarity and slurs.
Okay, now for some honest critique. While I am okay with many of the words used, many taken from the Urban Dictionary, I am not okay with blatant mistakes in spelling/punctuation/grammar. This book should have been edited to help the reader get through it. The author used incorrect words numerous times, and I stumbled each time.
The short chapters were fine, but this missed… something. With the title, I wanted a goal that the main character wanted to achieve and overcoming—or not—the obstacles. One central theme might have been basic survival in a world where drug sales and sex and clubbing and fights and murder are the norm. While that’s fine, I don’t think it’s enough. It’s too broad.
There are storylines here. We see an ending to one of Monique’s friends (however, Crystal and Evet dropped out of the book with no “where are they now” scene). We see the conclusion to Lester’s story. We see some of Guillard’s friends go the way of so many.
Even Guillard’s “story” has an ending. Sort of. I see there is a second book in the works, so maybe we’ll get more in that.
However, this book felt a bit disjointed, and I cannot ignore the egregious errors. I admire the effort of the writer to put this story down and get published, but he should have taken time to have it properly edited. It would have been so much stronger and had more impact.
So, usually, I’d rank this type of book pretty low with the numerous errors. Probably down to at least a Yellow. However, I think the rough running story itself moved it up to:
Camouflage Belt
February 22, 2023
Hood Struggle was both an surprising experience and exactly what I expected when I purchased it from the author at New Orleans open-artist market earlier this month. By that, I mean that the author’s brief description was perfectly accurate—the book did indeed provide a glimpse into daily life in the “hood” that needs to be shared and is not unique to its setting or to the author’s generation.
What made the experience surprising was the quality of the writing. The characters were quite compelling, the story was engaging, and the vernacular was well captured (and beyond the first few pages I was able to follow it effortlessly).
Beyond a few unfortunate typos, the prose felt lyrical and I could hear the characters speaking in my mind as if I had been present. I could feel the struggle and appreciate how often what I might judge as a “bad choice” was merely a choice that had consequences when there often wasn’t really a “good choice” available.
Sure, from my privileged position, I might be able to see that better choices, ones that might have led to better outcomes, could have been made, but it’s not my place to judge as I don’t know what it takes to survive in that environment. I’m grateful to Kevin Guillard for helping me appreciate the world he grew up in a little better and for the well-told story that captured my imagination and left me wanting more.
What made the experience surprising was the quality of the writing. The characters were quite compelling, the story was engaging, and the vernacular was well captured (and beyond the first few pages I was able to follow it effortlessly).
Beyond a few unfortunate typos, the prose felt lyrical and I could hear the characters speaking in my mind as if I had been present. I could feel the struggle and appreciate how often what I might judge as a “bad choice” was merely a choice that had consequences when there often wasn’t really a “good choice” available.
Sure, from my privileged position, I might be able to see that better choices, ones that might have led to better outcomes, could have been made, but it’s not my place to judge as I don’t know what it takes to survive in that environment. I’m grateful to Kevin Guillard for helping me appreciate the world he grew up in a little better and for the well-told story that captured my imagination and left me wanting more.
March 24, 2024
First, I'll start with the story. It was ok. It was a story about the worst of Louisiana. The violence and drugs and unwed mothers. But anyone with knowledge of the real world knows this is happening. I wanted to give this a better rating, but the author should have had an editor. It didn't need to be a professional, even an old school teacher might have been able to help.
Some of the characters weren't fully detailed, and often a character from earlier in the story appears and I couldn't remember how they fit in the story. Several characters only appear in quick moments.
The writing was mostly first-person, but sometimes switched. The narrative should have been corrected for grammar and spelling. I liked the slang from the characters, not not as part of the entire story. I also didn't realize there was an urban dictionary at the back until I finished. I used Google to look up all the words I didn't know as I was reading the story.
I hope the author gets some assistance if/when he writes his next book.
Some of the characters weren't fully detailed, and often a character from earlier in the story appears and I couldn't remember how they fit in the story. Several characters only appear in quick moments.
The writing was mostly first-person, but sometimes switched. The narrative should have been corrected for grammar and spelling. I liked the slang from the characters, not not as part of the entire story. I also didn't realize there was an urban dictionary at the back until I finished. I used Google to look up all the words I didn't know as I was reading the story.
I hope the author gets some assistance if/when he writes his next book.
February 20, 2022
Like many, I bought this from the author at the French Market. At the time I remember thinking that it was more than I usually pay for a paperback but there was something about how he described what he was hoping to get across in his narrative that made me buy it. It sat on my bookshelf for almost two years, having only read the first 10-15 pages. It took me a little bit to get into the street lingo but once I did, the story and the characters came alive and I couldn’t put it down. Hood Struggle is like nothing I’ve ever read and I will forever look differently at folks that may have come from or are still in a similar environment. I believe we as a society need to do better in so many ways to change what some are born into and others see no way out of. I trust that the author’s message has hit me exactly where he intended. Well done and my best to you, Kevin.
September 10, 2022
Written in raw language (supplemented by an urban dictionary at the back of the book), author Kevin Guillard crafts a contemporary story known to too many in our inner cities- poverty, family members in prison, teenage pregnancy, excessive drug use, joblessness, truancy, and more- to illustrate the struggles of those who live in the ‘hood. Guillard is a talented story teller who created a publishing company to tell stories like this and who has been known to sell one book at a time at the French Market in New Orleans. I look forward to his next book. (Just one suggestion- find someone to help edit the story to review for flow, spelling, etc. Another set of eyes is always a good idea. Good luck!)
November 13, 2022
Kevin masterfully captures the reality of the life and struggle many young black men and women go through. The conversational style that he uses for writing shows the way that many of these young men and women think and live. It is their world. Many never escape and the cycle of the struggle repeats generation after generation. This is the only life that many know in many cities across the US. I am thankful that Kevin made it out and moved his life forward. Especially meaningful to me as I looked in Kevin’s eyes and shook his hand when I bought this book directly from him one week ago today in New Orleans. I could see and feel his resolve to make something of his life. Hopefully he inspires others who are trapped in the hood struggle to do the same.
July 4, 2024
Hood Struggle is a very eye opening book to the reality that MANY people are facing not only now, but for decades. I purchased this book from Kevin Guillard at the French Market in New Orleans, LA. After purchase he signed the book for me, and we had a conversation about the contents of the book, and I told him it sounded very interesting to me, as I work in area facing some of the very same topics discussed within the book. The way the book is written, is as if someone is literally speaking to you about the hardships and reality they have experienced. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who either sees these thing on a daily basis, or someone who needs the veil pulled from their eyes to truly see what other people are living with in their life.
February 9, 2022
A few months ago, I went to New Orleans, while there I met the author. He was selling his book in a market in the French Quarter. I was first intrigued that he wrote it himself. The book is very heart breaking. He writes of his teenage years ages 12-15 and I just find it so hard to fathom all that he saw and experienced. I kept comparing him to my 12 and 14 year old sons. There is a lot going on in the book; AIDS, rape, guns, prison, drugs, etc. It is written in a very raw way (as that was the intent). It did end abruptly and I would like to know what happens next in his life. (note: lots of language and very graphic scenes)
April 12, 2022
I bought this book from the author at the French market in NOLA. I was very intrigued by the author and impressed with what he was trying to do with his life and the effort he was making to share his and those from his same upbringing's struggle. A lot of reviews mention the editing, or lack thereof, I actually thought it fit with the theme and point of the book.
Definitely not the type of book I'd normally read. And the ending left me with more questions than answers but I think that was the authors intent. Very eye opening. I'm glad I read it. I think more people should.
Definitely not the type of book I'd normally read. And the ending left me with more questions than answers but I think that was the authors intent. Very eye opening. I'm glad I read it. I think more people should.
May 10, 2022
This was a great read! There are so many topics to unpack and opportunities for wider discourse- I truly hope this book (and Author) flourishes. That it hasn't gone through the copy editing process that many of us are familiar with enhances its appeal.
The next book is expected to be released soon and I look forward to getting my copy. For the sequel, an authors note delving into what has or hasn't changed for this neighbourhood since the release of the first book would have great value.
Thank you, Kevin!
The next book is expected to be released soon and I look forward to getting my copy. For the sequel, an authors note delving into what has or hasn't changed for this neighbourhood since the release of the first book would have great value.
Thank you, Kevin!
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November 11, 2022I found Hood Struggle captivating. It took me out of my comfort zone into a world I have only known through TV and movies. I met Kevin Guillard in New Orleans at The French Market. Like others, I was fascinated by his story. It felt important and I bought his book. I am so glad I did. My favorite part was the various characters. I cared deeply for them. I look forward to reading more of Kevin’s work.
June 13, 2020
Had the pleasure of meeting Kevin Guillard in the NOLA French Market, where he sold and signed me a copy of his book. With another pass or two from an editor, I’d give the book another point, but even as is, Hood Struggle is a top-tier example of self-published writing. It’s a raw and fully realized vision with emotional heft. Well done, Mr. Guillard.
April 30, 2021
3 ⭐️ My husband and I bought this book from the author himself when we were visiting the French Quarter Market in New Orleans. The author was very nice and excited to share his story with us. This story was very raw and eye-opening. The downside of this book was the lack of editing. The format and the misspellings were very hard to get past.
June 27, 2023
Read it in one sitting. The book had a lot of authenticity and character, which is what kept me going. The characters felt real and I found myself laughing with them and relating to their struggle. Sometimes the plot jumps ahead or jumps perspective which can be a bit jarring, but overall I think it worked. Looking forward to the sequel!
May 26, 2024
Bought this book from Kevin Guillard on a visit to New Orleans after having a wonderful conversation with him. I loved the story and characters. The voice of the book added to the authenticity of the whole experience. It had an abrupt ending that left more to be desired, so I'm looking forward to the sequel!
March 25, 2025
I met the author in New Orleans and wanted to support a fellow indie author! As a white woman from a country town in Ohio, I truly had only heard stories about people being raised in the hood. The language, the struggles and the uncertainty is in full display in this heartfelt story. I really enjoyed the Urban Dictionary in the back to help me understand some of the dialog better.
July 1, 2020
I purchased this book while at the French Market and was able to chat with Mr. Guillard...fascinated by his story and perseverance in the face of adversity, I had to support him and give his story a shot. I’m so glad that I did!
March 23, 2023
I’ve only just started reading this having bought the book near to the spotted cat jazz club this week. So far I am finding it a good read and I agree with the positive feedback in other reviews below.
December 13, 2020
Bought this book from Kevin himself at the French market in 2019 probably the most realest thing I’ve ever read
July 25, 2022
I bought this book from the author on my last trip to New Orleans. A tough book to read.
May 16, 2023
Great no nonsense book. Kevin is a gifted storyteller and opens up a world that's not commonly understood by privledged white folks like me.
February 29, 2024
Was visiting New Orleans and bought this book in the quarter. I finally got a chance to start reading it today and have not been able to put the book down. Great book
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May 7, 2024A life in the hood: drugs, sex, guns, cars, hustling, babies, death
November 10, 2024
Interesting story, but the writing is super rough around the edges. Parts were difficult to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews