Different: The Strange Story of Darius Stein by David Gelernter

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In the shadowed aftermath of World War Two, an unwanted black infant is cruelly left at the steps of an all-white orphanage. This is Darius Stein’s harsh welcome to a world seething with bias and peril. Unknown to Darius, his blood carries Jewish heritage—a secret that multiplies the danger he faces in a racially divided world.

Growing up, Darius learns to trust only his sharp instincts and the power of his fists, constantly parrying blows directed at his skin color and mysterious lineage. Yet, as he delves into his family’s enigmatic history, a deeper challenge emerges: Can his spirit and resilience withstand the weight of truths buried in darkness?

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the 40s, 50s, and 60s, “Different” is an edge-of-your-seat odyssey. With each page, Darius evolves, mastering martial arts and becoming a beacon of hope for the oppressed. But even heroes have their breaking point. As the fallout of his actions looms, Darius’s hard-fought identity risks coming undone.

“Different” is not just a story—it’s an experience. Journey alongside Darius Stein, navigating through prejudice, secrets, and a relentless quest for belonging in an unforgiving world.

Year first published: 2023