Rapper and entrepreneur Alaji recounts his experiences as a black Muslim man living in America in this candid debut that exposes his doubts, demoralizing obstacles in his life, and his efforts to be a better person. Born to a conservative Muslim family in Upstate New York in 1974, Alaji relates his estranged relationship with his weak-willed and distant father and the courage he gained from his indomitable mother. Alaji dropped out of high school, got married at age 18, and struggled within a toxic marriage (which included Alaji’s attempts to institute Islamic discipline on the household, and accusations of abuse on both sides) for six years before getting divorced. After what he felt was a racially biased custody battle for his daughters and wrongful termination of his job, his plea “This ain’t my life” spurred his belief that he had a greater destiny. Alaji became more interested in music and adopted the rap name Logic the Official; attended business school; and developed faith that God will protect his family along the way. Many of his observations are rationalized with Alaji attributing his past decisions to the naiveté of youth, and are delivered with palpable regret. Alaji also includes splashes of his own rap lyrics, as well as a heartfelt letter to his daughters. Readers will be informed and affected by Alaji’s difficulties as this impactful memoir depicts his determination, tenacity, and ability to change. (Self-published.)