“SPIT: A Life in Battles” is the memoir of battle rapper Jonnie Park, more commonly known as Dumbfoundead. Originally born in Argentina, Dumbfoundead and his family made the harsh desert journey across the border to America. Dumbfounded grew up in Koreatown, Los Angeles. His new memoir, released in April, talks about his childhood, his introduction to hip-hop (through freestyling and battle rapping), and challenges growing up in K-town. 

“SPIT” is organized into 12 chapters, each representing one battlefield in Park’s life. Dumbfounded begins the novel telling the story of his angry, alcoholic father. He goes into detail about his life dropping out of high school, looking for a job, and, of course, becoming a battle rapper. 

One section highlights his most famous rap battles, including his strategies and best bars. Unfortunately, the funniest lines can’t be printed here… 

It is inspirational how Dumbfoundead went from a troublemaking teenager on the streets of Koreatown who enjoyed rhymes, to rising as a freestyler in Project Blowed, an underground hip hop club. He eventually began recording his own music, and eventually became recognized as a Koreatown hero. 

The memoir includes short graphic novel sections, illustrating the text with Dumbfoundead’s verses. I liked all of the artwork in this book, especially the comics and the inside covers.

 I recommend this book to anybody who has connections to Koreatown. Many Rosemont students have family members who live or have lived in K-town and will understand and enjoy those references. On a personal note regarding Koreatown, Shoutout to Cafe Bleu! My dad always talks about that place. I’ve never been inside but my dad has a picture of me standing in front of it when I was three years old.