Heaven Is a Playground: A Journey into the Sweet World of Street Basketball

Now in Paperback! Heaven Is a Playground is the first book on the uniquely American phenomenon of urban basketball.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2023
Publisher: Sports Publishing LLC

Now available in paperback!

Heaven Is a Playground was the pioneering work on the distinctly American phenomenon of urban basketball. Rick Telander, a photojournalist and former high school basketball player, spent the summer of 1973 and the entirety of 1974 in Brooklyn immersing himself in the playground culture alongside his subjects at Foster Park in Flatbush. He resided on the floor of a park regular's apartment, observing, questioning, traveling, playing with, and eventually coaching a ragtag group of local teenagers whose hopes for a better life were often fervently intertwined with the transcendent game itself. Telander introduces us to Fly Williams, a playground legend renowned for his incredible leaping ability and self-destructive tendencies that threatened to confine him to Earth. Another notable figure was Albert King, a fifteen-year-old prodigy whose reserved and quiet demeanor concealed an otherworldly talent that ultimately propelled him to the NBA. This edition also includes Telander's insights on the arrival of an NBA team in Brooklyn.

Heaven Is a Playground is a unique and captivating book that explores the essence of Americans and the origins of the sport they cherish. It is a blend of humor, sadness, and ultimately inspiring storytelling that delves into the lives of the individuals involved and their profound connection to basketball. Through his vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, Telander provides a deep understanding of the cultural and social significance of urban basketball, highlighting its role in shaping communities and providing opportunities for upward mobility.

One of the standout characters in the book is Fly Williams, a playground legend with extraordinary leaping abilities and a penchant for self-destruction. Telander vividly portrays Williams' struggles and challenges, highlighting his talent and potential but also his destructive tendencies that threatened to derail his dreams. Despite his flaws, Fly remains a captivating figure, and Telander's portrayal of him sheds light on the complexities of human nature and the pressures that young athletes face.

Another notable character is Albert King, a fifteen-year-old phenom whose shy and quiet demeanor masked an extraordinary talent. Telander's portrayal of King captures his quiet confidence and his relentless pursuit of excellence. King's journey from a local playground to the NBA is a testament to his determination and hard work, and Telander's account of his journey is both inspiring and heartwarming.

Telander's perspectives on the arrival of an NBA team in Brooklyn are also insightful and thought-provoking. He reflects on the impact that the team had on the local community and the opportunities it provided for young athletes. Telander argues that the NBA team brought a sense of legitimacy and recognition to urban basketball, and it helped to inspire a new generation of players to pursue their dreams.

In addition to its compelling characters and insightful narratives, Heaven Is a Playground is also a beautifully written book. Telander's prose is evocative and descriptive, and he has a talent for capturing the essence of a moment and conveying the emotions of his characters. The book is filled with vivid imagery and memorable quotes, making it a pleasure to read from start to finish.

Overall, Heaven Is a Playground is a must-read for anyone interested in sports, culture, and the human experience. It is a funny, sad, and ultimately inspiring book that provides a unique perspective on the world of urban basketball and the individuals who inhabit it. Telander's storytelling is masterful, and his characters are unforgettable, making this a book that will stay with readers long after they have finished reading.

Weight: 363g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781683584728
Edition number: 5th Edition, Fifth Edition, New edition