It’s 1989 Savannah, Georgia. Dez is thirteen and smelling himself. “Born with the gift of gab,” his talent quickly turns into a love affair with words. Derrick “Dez” Allen wants nothing more than to be on the big stage busting rhymes like KRS-1, Slick Rick or EPMD. He seems to be on his way when he discovers girls. Raging hormones, peer pressure, the allure of money and drugs impact Dez’s life in ways that no one sees until one terrible Flicted decision – one that could cost him everything. Flicted is a fast paced coming of age rollercoaster that will have you laughing, reminiscing with friends, singing your favorite songs, and drifting away on childhood memories. Savannah, Georgia, native AJ Kush believes in putting art to work for people. For well over 15 years, he has channeled his passion for history, music, and helping people into a dynamic career as a teaching artist. He is a graduate of Georgia Southern University. Flicted (afflicted) is his first full length novel.