Not a Genuine Black Man by Brian Copeland
Peggy gave me this book several months ago and I've just started reading it. Surprisingly, it's really funny AND it's set in San Leandro . . .

OK, I'm done reading this book which will probably be one of my top books this year. Mr. Copeland is honest and hilarious in describing his life growing up in San Leandro when it was still a predominantly white town. He shares stories about his family: his strong mother who cleverly uses a British accent during Christmas when calling the credit card company to extend her credit line, his profanity happy grandmother, his abusive and mostly absent father who, Brian tells the reader, no one would ever deny was a "genuine" black man, as well as his little sisters who also endure racism in San Leandro. As the chapters float seamlessly back and forth between childhood and adulthood, the reader is able to understand Brian and his undoubtedly unique situation.