Scratching The Surface

By Jason Betts Jr

Scratching The Surface is a captivating novel about a family battling adversity and pursuing success. The story follows Shawn, a young boy growing up in a single-parent household, as he navigates the challenges of his upbringing and pursues his dream of becoming a doctor. Through triumphs and obstacles, the narrative explores themes of family bonds, personal growth, and the resilience of the human spirit. It's a tale of redemption and self-discovery that reminds us of the enduring power of love and resilience in the face of adversity.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jason Betts Jr
• Release date: Jul 19, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223488835

Book preview

As the sun began its descent on a warm summer night, casting a resplendent glow over the neighborhood, Shawn found solace on the weathered porch of their modest home. The paint on the wooden steps had faded, revealing the years of wear, mirroring the weariness etched on Shawn's face. He sat on the creaking porch swing, its rhythmic squeaking echoing the thoughts swirling in his mind.

The scent of freshly cut grass mingled with the fragrance of blooming flowers, creating an intoxicating blend that enveloped the air. Shawn's gaze fixated on the horizon, where streaks of orange and pink painted a mesmerizing tableau, offering a fleeting respite from the challenges of their surroundings.

Hey baby, come in, it's time to eat, called out his mother, her voice carrying a mix of authority and tenderness. The sound of her voice pulled Shawn back to reality, and he reluctantly relinquished his perch on the porch swing. The worn wooden floor beneath his feet creaked softly as he made his way down the narrow hallway, lined with faded family photographs capturing moments of joy amidst the struggles.

The aroma of a homecooked meal wafted through the house, a symphony of spices and flavors beckoned Shawn to the dinner table. The sounds of his siblings' laughter and playful banter grew louder as he approached the source of warmth and togetherness. The worn table, adorned with a simple, patterned cloth, awaited their arrival.

Now sit down and say grace, his mother instructed gently, her eyes brimming with a blend of weariness and unwavering love. Shawn found his seat amidst the joyful chaos, the jostling for space, and the sibling rivalry that was an integral part of their everyday lives.

Their hands intertwined, their heads bowed in a display of reverence, as their mother led the family in prayer. The words echoed through the room, a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the sustenance they were about to receive. The silence that followed was broken by a mischievous glimmer in Marcus's eyes, his playful antics threatening to unravel the solemnity.

Now I know you're not playing over the food? their mother interjected, a hint of sternness in her voice that couldn't fully conceal the warmth and affection she held for her children. Marcus's mischievous grin was quickly replaced by an apologetic smile, his youthful exuberance tempered by the reminder of proper manners.

Laughter erupted, filling the cozy space with a symphony of joy, their shared moments of levity serving as a temporary respite from the weight of their daily struggles. The clinking of cutlery against plates became a rhythmic chorus, punctuating the moments of familial unity and providing nourishment for their bodies and souls.

As the evening progressed, the fading light of the setting sun painted the room in warm hues, casting long shadows that danced on the walls. Shawn's mind wandered, tracing the contours of the hardships they had endured, the trials that had molded their existence. The rough neighborhood, with its crumbling facades and echoes of violence, had imprinted its mark on their lives, leaving an indelible impression on their spirits.

Amid their shared challenges, however, Shawn felt a flicker of hope, a burning desire to transcend the limitations imposed upon them. His young heart yearned for something more, something beyond the boundaries of their upbringing. He dreamed of a different future, one where he could rise above the