The Five People You Meet in the Hood (Before You Get to Heaven)

By: Toriano Porter

Narrated by: Toriano Porter

Rory was a streetwise kid from one of the city’s toughest housing projects. Ricky, the pretty boy athlete, escaped the mean streets of north St. Louis to become a mentor and coach. Joseph was born to teenage parents, as was his younger half-brother, Little T. Neither would live past 19. Brenda, the no-nonsense mother-in-the-law, played the role of confidant and critic until breast cancer ravaged her body and spread to her brain. All died within a span of 19 months. Four of them in the same year, two violently. Two died within days of each other - twice. This is the story of how they were all connected. Be inspired by five new bold, powerful, and reflective personal essays on reconciliation and redemption from the award-winning author of The Pride of Park Avenue and James Cool.

©2020 Toriano Porter (P)2021 Toriano Porter

A compelling tribute/ memoir

In his unique voice, Toriano Porter narrates candid stories of five real characters from his life and how they impacted him. Porter brings each human to life, attractive and flawed, from his friend "Nose" to his generous and cursing step-mother. He pays unique tribute to each friend & loved one by describing how they made him a better person.

May my fellow readers and I also be better for knowing their stories and from Porter's honest experience with grief and loss.

Post Traumatic Healing Journey

I’ve had this book in my audible library for a few months now. I am remiss to not have started and finished it sooner. As someone, eerily, too closely connected to trauma and grief this book is an inspiring and insightful look into the tapestry of trauma, healing, and redemption. Amazingly raw, real, and cathartic! Thank you.