"Messed-Up Kid describes the authors childhood, family, and community relationships. It describes many of his adult relationships as well. It presents a young man who came from nowhere, experiencing trials and tribulations, trying to get from point "A" to point "B." It pictures a young man who never expected to, but did achieve some degree of success. A commentary on what it's like to come from a tough place, and realize this degree of success. All this is accomplished through maxims that are powerful, to the point, succinct, and direct. A good maxim is worth a thousand words.