Unique, Funny, Emotional Coming-of-Age

Don't miss this book! My first impression of this book was correct: it is wonderful. I can picture it made into a movie! The coming-of-age story for Darius is unique, funny (at times), sad (at times), but always true to the voice of teenage Darius. So many times when I have been disappointed in books that I've bought, I think, "All I want is a good story." And that's what this boo about Darius is. I like the fact that it is totally realistic without being too heavy handed in any direction. There are funny moments, awkward teenage moments, frustration with one's family coupled with anger when an outsider criticizes or makes fun of those same things. Nothing is perfect (whose life is?) but it is not all bad. I have already told several family members and friends that this is a MUST read. When Hollywood makes it into a movie (they are missing a good one if they don't), I hope they use an unknown actor for the part of Darius so that the audience truly gets into this young man's life experience and never feels as if they are watching ______ (fill in the name of a famous actor) in action. Male or female readers will laugh and sigh right along with Darius.