Black Boy is an autobiography about Richards painful years growing up during the early 90s in Jim Crow South. Through the chapters Richard examines painful and confusing memories of his childhood that lead to a better understanding of his background. Through his pain, Richard is able to rise up and become the writer he dreams to be. In the novel each scene is told with the perspective of little Richard and is reflected upon by older Richard.
Black Boy begins with four-year-old Richard setting the house on fire and is harshly beaten. From there they move to Memphis where his father abandons the family and his mother becomes ill. He is brought up by uncles, aunts, and even orphanages, but couldn't be controlled, causing all sorts of trouble.