Being a black girl from an immigrant family who lived in the suburbs growing up, I know very little about southern or country Black American life. I don't know what it is to have creole in your blood, or deep southern roots. Moreover, being the oldest child with a younger sister who grew up with the same circumstances, I know nothing about the childhood memories or actions of little black boys. The chronicle of Ti'John's life in RED NOW AND LATERS makes me feel like I missed out on a lot. Like I want to do my childhood all over again, in Alabama or Louisiana. Like I wish I had a brother and was a little more "grown," kinda like Royal - maybe then I would have had more fun as a kid (just kidding).

RED NOW AND LATERS is an enjoyable read from the beginning, a spectacular clash of a spiritual realm and the realistic tribulations of being young and male and Black.

One of the most fascinating characters for me is Father, Paul Boudreaux...I imagine that I could enjoy an entire novel about him alone. I was most intrigued by Father's quote: ""And wipe that frown off your face. You'se a colored boy. You got to learn to make your own gotdamn luck.""

Anyway, beyond Father, there are a host of other amazing characters, like Nonc Sonnier, Booger, Father Jerome, and Noelle...all so interesting and multi-faceted. It is here that Guillory grabs and holds my attention. It is his ability to give such care and concern for realistic characters that I appreciate and value the most.

RED NOW AND LATERS is a fascinating coming of age story that makes you laugh, makes you think, and keeps you hopeful for its protagonist. I recommend this novel and look forward to more of Guillory's work.