Outskirts Press, INC.

“A Woman’s Love … A Dog’s Devotion”

Rafer Cartwright, the youngest of four siblings raised in a working class neighborhood on the outskirts of Kingston, Jamaica, had suffered through years of academic boredom at his local schools. Then along came Usain Alt, a history educator renowned for his ability to motivate his students with innovative lessons, thought provoking discussions, and revolutionary role playing techniques. The mentor instilled in his pupils, through a discourse of their slave descendants and lessons on the civil rights movement in the United States, a fervent sense of pride for their roots, their culture, and their blackness. With Rafe having graduated from high school as a respected leader in community affairs, his sights were set on college placement. Yet because of the economic recession on his island during the 1970’s, the enterprising man like many of his cronies opted for better employment opportunities available in North America. But there were other “players” in this foreign milieu who would make his transition difficult. Black urban street thugs and menacing Mafia associates would make his life a living hell. Ironically, two white entities, one human and the other canine, would provide both love and heartbreak for the proud Jamaican. Unbeknownst to all, Rafe possessed an inner “power” which had actually originated during the ancient tribal eras of southern Africa. But would this special ability provide relief from his tormentors, or would it subsequently cause his demise?