Book Review by Melissa Antoinette Garza
Ice-T is one of the most versatile and talented celebrities in entertainment. Though, I never listened to much Gangster Rap, his rock band “Body Count“ reeled me in quickly. I thought both New Jack City and Surviving the Game were two great movies which were made greater by Ice-T’s acting. No one can say that “Law and Order SVU” wasn’t 1000 times better once Fin (Ice-T) teamed up with Munch (Richard Belzer).
When I learned that Ice-T had released a biography of his life, I quickly purchased the book. I didn’t know what to expect as I didn’t know much about his life.
Nonetheless, Ice-T fascinated me enough to read cover to cover every page. I was more than pleasantly surprised to read how much was shared about his trials and tribulations. So many celebrities today are forced to take on the persona of a tough guy and never once are we allowed to see them with their guard down or hear them express their fears. Ice-T is open discussing everything.
We learn early on that his parents tragically died of heart attacks just a few years apart, and shortly thereafter Ice-T moved in with his aunt who was short on affection. He left when he was 17.
Something I found fascinating was the history behind the gangs. I was a teenager in the 90s and by that time, the only knowledge of gangs I had was urban legends and MTV videos. I always thought they were completely violent and without integrity. It was interesting to hear of a time when gangs fought with fists and when having the best physique was what earned respect.
Ice-T doesn’t glamorize the violence of the gangs. Nor does he glamorize being a drug dealer or a pimp. I will say that some of the heist stories he recalls screams of great films like Ocean 11. They paint a picture of excitement that is as fun to read as I’m sure it is for Ice-T to recount.
Later, the book delves into his rap career and rock career. One tale of Body Count playing in Milan stands out as the best. I won’t disclose the tale
here as I don’t want to ruin the book or telling of the story, but it deals with hooligans and an escape tale not to be missed.
Ice-T takes us through his entire career and his rebirth into stardom without ever forgetting where he came from. He paints an honest picture which actually makes an outsider to the lifestyle understand the criminal portion of his life more.
Overall, it’s a great book and much better than expected. I would suggest anyone who has the ability to read this article to buy it.
Scared Stiff Rating: 9/10
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