Game Over: The Rise and Transformation of a Harlem Hustler

by Azie Faison and Agyei Tyehimba

Book Overview

A cautionary tale about the life of former kingpin Azie Faison, who has become the fabric of street legend

Faison was a ninth grade dropout who earned more than $100,000 a week selling cocaine in Harlem, New York, during the peak of America's "War on Drugs" between 1983 and 1990. Faison, along with two partners, was an urban prince with cars, jewels, and people -- in awe of this million-dollar phenomenon -- at his feet. His legacy has...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0743282310
• ISBN13: 9780743282314
• Release Date: August 2007
• Publisher: Atria Books
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 0.62 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.5" x 8.4"

Customer Reviews

Harlem's Mochabreez

I thought this book was absolubtly "wonderfull"! As a former resident of Harlem during AZ's reign, I can assure you of the accuracy of this well written, informative book. I laughed, I cried, I felt fear, and I celebrated, as I was entertained. I believe this book should be a required text of all schools; for it is a lesson that both teachers, and students can benefit from. I applaued AZ for his candid accounts, and his chosen co/author (Agyei Tyehimba). This Authors abilities breathed litterary life into a story now not soon to be forgotten. I look forward to Mr. Tyehimba's next projects, and Az's future accomplishments. Wishing you both continued success... Mochabreez

very on point Book

this Book puts the Hustler life style out there and pulls no punches. the streets don't play and Azie tells the game uncut and no sugarcoating. it's the kind of Book that Every Soul brother should Peep out because it is straight to the point.

Great Book!!!

Good read especially for black men....A+++ AZ I commend you for telling your story/struggle. I am a female from D.C. who has followed the AZ, Alpo and Rich Porter story. Ive lost many loved ones to the streets and is now raising sons. This really helped.

A Book Every Hustler Should Read

This is a book that ever person who's thinking of getting involved in the game should read before doing so. It's a very easy read like Azie was sitting on your building stoop kickin' it with you. Many kids these days look up to the so-called ghetto stars and they fail to realize the consequences of their actions, Azie relates his story in a way that is both tragic and inspiring, if he could turn his life around anyone can. I thank you Brother Azie for exposing your former life without glamorizing it.

How many regrets do you have?

Mr. Faison' biggest regret is not paying attention to his signs from God. Early on he knew God was trying to tell him something he just chose to ignore the signs and pursue a life of crime. I would like to commend this man on his story. The bottom line of the whole story is Mr. Faison has many regrets, he is not trying to glamorize the life he and his comrades lived or tell children its okay to listen to rap and try to emulate the life of a drug dealing thug. The crazy part is he had to go thru the drug dealing and the lost of many of his loved ones to get to the good part of his life where he is now. Did they blow a lot of money yes, could he still be living off what he made back in the 80's yes. The best line in the book he says "we were ignorant". He also touches on Snitches and what America today view as a snitch and I loved when he said "we snitch on ourselves, we are so busy pointing the finger and trying to figure out who told when we told." In my opinion the author Agyei Tyehimba along with Mr. Faison told the story of a young man who didn't realize the life he choose would lead to so many people following his story. Rappers talking about them people making movies regarding them and all the wrong kind of fame drug dealing brought them. I especially liked when purchasing this book 75% of the proceeds go to the children who've lost a parent due to their selling of drugs, his charity is called Chariot 126. The number 126 is symbolic to Mr. Faison regarding all the things he's been thru, you would have to read the story to understand what it means.