The Shadow Behind the Dream (Paperback or Softback)

How can one fight through to transform the overcast of life's tribulations or the stigma of being a Black man in America? The Shadow Behind the Dream is an amazing novel which documents a young man's right of passage in his teenaged years.

Seventeen-year-old Jamari Picand is growing up in Williston, North Dakota. Life for him has not always been easy, and it seems to only get worse. In addition to being one of the few African Americans in a predominantly white town, being socially awkward has caused him to experience life differently and more difficult than his peers. He is forced to deal with racism and stereotypes, a constant struggle with fitting in, on top of already having to deal with the woes of being a teen.

The Shadow Behind the Dream is inspired by author Phyllistone Termine's real life events. Born to immigrant parents Phyllistone, was forced to find a quick way to get money to aid his growing drug habit. In 2017, he was arrested on fraud charges at the age of 19. Today, he is a poet, songwriter, rapper, author, producer, and motivational speaker, despite being incarcerated. From his book, Phyllistone says, "Now I'm focusing on being the best person I can be and becoming a productive member of society".

I am Phyllistone Termine, born and raised in Miami, Florida. My parents are immigrants from the beautiful but very poor island of Haiti. I am the last of four children. I have two sisters - Phyltrows and Michelle; I have one brother - Lionelson, who is named after my father, Lionel. My sister, Michelle is named after my mother, Micheline, and I am named after my oldest sister, Phyltrows. I am currently serving a 54-month sentence in federal prison. I was convicted at the age of 19 on fraud charges. I also began to compose this book at the age of 19. I am a recovering drug addict; I have done all types of drugs and I have done all types of crime to support my habits. Luckily for me, I came to prison. I caught myself before the effects of drug abuse and a criminal lifestyle ended my life. I am a poet, songwriter, rapper, author, producer, and most importantly, I am a voice for all the people that have a story similar to mine. It is never too late to turn your life around. I robbed, sold dope, swiped people's credit cards, and almost lost my life several times. I dropped out of school in the ninth grade due to my gang ties. I was in the streets heavy since I was 14. Now I'm focusing on being the best person I can be and becoming a productive member of society.