"Heaven Is a Playground" is a novel written by Rick Telander that follows the story of a young basketball coach named Jack who moves to Brooklyn to work with troubled youth. Jack's mission is to use basketball as a tool to mentor and guide these kids towards a better future. As he navigates the challenges of coaching in a tough neighborhood, Jack forms a special bond with a talented player named Tyrone. Together, they face obstacles both on and off the court, but Jack's dedication and passion for the game ultimately lead to a transformative experience for everyone involved. The novel explores themes of redemption, friendship, and the power of sports to bring people together."