The Shot Caller is a profound memoir that traces Diaz's journey from a violent gang life to profound spiritual redemption. Born to El Salvadorian immigrants and raised in Los Angeles, Casey Diaz was exposed to an abusive and impoverished environment from a young age. By eleven, he was deeply involved with the Rockwood Street Locos gang, committing serious crimes to establish his dominance within this dangerous world. Diaz's life took a dramatic turn when he was ambushed and arrested by the LAPD at a young age. Subsequently, he faced a lengthy sentence in solitary confinement, during which he underwent a miraculous transformation. Encounters with spiritual guidance led him to embrace Christianity, fundamentally altering his path and outlook on life. The book details his experiences in gang culture, his time in prison, and the unexpected spiritual journey that led to his transformation and newfound purpose in advocating for others and sharing his story. The memoir not only explores the gritty realities of gang violence and the harshness of prison life but also offers a message of hope and redemption, illustrating how even those in the darkest circumstances can find a new path through faith and change​.

With gangs so prevalent in today's society this book is an important read. This true story of Casey, the son of El Salvador refugees is a wonderful tool for parents with children vulnerable to gangs. Also, churches that want to become more involved in prison ministries would find this book an encouragement. Highly recommended!!

"The Shot Caller " is a nonfiction Christian book by Casey Diaz. This book is a moving and shows how Jesus can change hardened and toughen people. Casey is the son of immigrants from El Salvador. His Dad was very abusive to his Mother. He grew up watching and being toughened up by the abusive behavior of his Dad. At the age of 11 years old Casey became a member of a gang called Rockwood Street Locos. He was doing these crimes: home invasions, car jackings, stabbings with rivals. He was arrested at 16 years old and charged with 13 years in prison for second degree murder and 52 counts of robbery. He was sentenced to solitary confinement or 23 hours per day. There was a lady in the Folsom State prison who would walk by his room and tell him He will make a difference to people in his future and God will use him. She told him this every time she was there and walked outside his room. She was involved in prison ministry at that prison. Casey made fun of her. One day there were images on his cell wall of his life as a small boy and other images as He gets older. There is a picture of man with long hair carrying a cross. He heard and audible voice saying I did this for you and died for you. He was placed on a cross with two other people and the voice told Him I did this for you. Casey wept and could not believe someone would die for him. He was deeply moved by these pictures and the audible voice. He confessed his sins and the man who spoke to him told him to see a chaplain. Casey had a full repentance and a full heart turn around. You will be amazed at his changed life . How does Casey change and where does God lead Him.? I appreciate the publisher for allowing me to read and review this book. It is a moving story. I appreciate netgalley for giving me this book.