Publisher's Synopsis
A pioneer of performance poetry, Benjamin Zephaniah's talents as a lyricist and storyteller emerged at a young age, helping him to survive the racism he faced growing up in 1960s Birmingham. He now speaks candidly of his time living outside the law, and how he broke away from the path his schoolteachers told him was inevitable. With the flame of creativity burning inside him, Benjamin came to London in the 1980s and emerged as a uniquely dynamic performer. Nelson Mandela formed a close friendship with him after hearing his musical tribute to him recorded with the Wailers - the first artist to do so after the death of Bob Marley. Benjamin's memories provide a vivid portrait of an extraordinary life that celebrates the power of poetry and the importance of pushing boundaries.
