What is heaven is a playground book summary?

"Heaven is a Playground" is a nonfiction book by Rick Telander that was first published in 1976. The book follows Telander's experiences living in the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn, where he worked as a basketball coach for a group of talented young players. Telander chronicles the struggles and triumphs of these players as they navigate the challenges of inner-city life while pursuing their dreams of making it to the NBA.

The title of the book comes from a quote by basketball legend Earl Monroe, who once said that playing basketball in the playground was like being in heaven. Through his interactions with the players, Telander explores themes of race, poverty, ambition, and the power of sports to provide a pathway to success for young people facing difficult circumstances.

Overall, "Heaven is a Playground" offers a raw and compelling look at the lives of inner-city youth and the role that basketball plays in shaping their futures. It is a powerful and thought-provoking read that sheds light on the complexities of urban life and the importance of mentorship and support for young people in underserved communities.