What do you think?
Rate this book
Using What You Got
TWO MONTHS ON THE ESSENCE MAGAZINE BESTSELLER'S LIST!!!
Eighteen-year-old college student Tiara Bynum is as pretty as a princess and just as spoiled. Her castle is the Harlem housing project where she lives with her younger sister Jo-Jo, and her doting father, Reggie. Her fiefdom is the legion of men at her beck and call every time she snaps her perfectly manicured fingers. She has no qualms about flaunting her charms to get what she wants because she’s “got it like that.”
Tiara believes she’s the toast of the world. Her greatest goal is to find a rich, handsome man who will spoil her just as her father does-or maybe even more. Go for the glitter, she urges herself. Who cares if it’s gold? When two suitors arrive on the scene, Tiara prepares to be smitten. But when the one she secretly adores doesn’t like her attitude, Tiara’s trademark confidence frays into embarrassment, shame, and confusion.
Blindly determined to strike out on her own at any cost, Tiara lashes out against those who love her most. Yet the choices she makes, based on the way she’s been raised, threaten to destroy not only Tiara, but her entire family.
Eighteen-year-old college student Tiara Bynum is as pretty as a princess and just as spoiled. Her castle is the Harlem housing project where she lives with her younger sister Jo-Jo, and her doting father, Reggie. Her fiefdom is the legion of men at her beck and call every time she snaps her perfectly manicured fingers. She has no qualms about flaunting her charms to get what she wants because she’s “got it like that.”
Tiara believes she’s the toast of the world. Her greatest goal is to find a rich, handsome man who will spoil her just as her father does-or maybe even more. Go for the glitter, she urges herself. Who cares if it’s gold? When two suitors arrive on the scene, Tiara prepares to be smitten. But when the one she secretly adores doesn’t like her attitude, Tiara’s trademark confidence frays into embarrassment, shame, and confusion.
Blindly determined to strike out on her own at any cost, Tiara lashes out against those who love her most. Yet the choices she makes, based on the way she’s been raised, threaten to destroy not only Tiara, but her entire family.
- GenresAfrican AmericanFiction
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2003
7 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Karen E. Quinones Miller
21 books189 followersKaren E. Quinones Miller is the author of the Essence best selling novels Satin Doll, I’m Telling, Using What You Got, Ida B., (nominated for an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction), Satin Nights, and Passin’.
Miller was born and raised in Harlem and dropped out of school in the 8th grade, but later finished her education and became a reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
In 1999 she self-published her first novel, Satin Doll, and sold 3,000 copies in just six weeks --and ultimately sold 28,000 copies in six months. The publishing rights to Satin Doll and a second book were ultimately sold at auction for a six-figure deal. She has subsequently been published by Simon & Schuster, Warner Books, and Grand Central Books.
Miller, who is included in the book Literary Divas: The Top 100+ Most Admired African-American Women in Literature, is a frequent and accomplished public speaker. Miller has conducted numerous publishing/self-publishing workshops that have been attended by people nationwide.
But more than anything, Miller’s passion is writing. She used her publishing company – Oshun Publishing Company, Inc. – to publish Harlem Godfather: The Rap on my Husband, Ellsworth “Bumpy” Johnson -- the first biography written about the Harlem gangster who was depicted in the movies Cotton Club, Hoodlum and American Gangster – which she co-authored along with Bumpy’s 93-year-old widow, Mayme Johnson. Oshun Publishing also recently published Raw: An Erotic Street Tale by Shay, and Prey For Love by Leyton Wint.
Miller was born and raised in Harlem and dropped out of school in the 8th grade, but later finished her education and became a reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
In 1999 she self-published her first novel, Satin Doll, and sold 3,000 copies in just six weeks --and ultimately sold 28,000 copies in six months. The publishing rights to Satin Doll and a second book were ultimately sold at auction for a six-figure deal. She has subsequently been published by Simon & Schuster, Warner Books, and Grand Central Books.
Miller, who is included in the book Literary Divas: The Top 100+ Most Admired African-American Women in Literature, is a frequent and accomplished public speaker. Miller has conducted numerous publishing/self-publishing workshops that have been attended by people nationwide.
But more than anything, Miller’s passion is writing. She used her publishing company – Oshun Publishing Company, Inc. – to publish Harlem Godfather: The Rap on my Husband, Ellsworth “Bumpy” Johnson -- the first biography written about the Harlem gangster who was depicted in the movies Cotton Club, Hoodlum and American Gangster – which she co-authored along with Bumpy’s 93-year-old widow, Mayme Johnson. Oshun Publishing also recently published Raw: An Erotic Street Tale by Shay, and Prey For Love by Leyton Wint.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 13, 2017
Using What You Got was a quick read. Miller penned a work that depicted the challenges of a young girl coming of age in Harlem. Tiara, the main character, is very intelligent and beautiful on the outside but limited in her abilities to see worth in others. She attends City College with the aspirations of attending law school. She meets up with a young man who has all of the outside charms that she finds attractive (looks, a nice ride and money). He also had a means, whether legal or not, that ensured that the material things could continue to be at his hand.
Along with her sister, Tiara, was the apple of her father's eye. There is nothing that he wouldn't do for his girls. He proved that over and over again, so he thought, by never denying them anything. Their mother had walked out on them 12 years ago and he did not want them to ever hurt again. He had support from his sister when it came to the girls. Reggie had never placed limits on the girls. He stated he had raised Tiara to look for a "thoroughbred" and therefore, those with limited or average means were not worthy of her.
Her aunt was a phenomenal lady. Prior to an accident she was known to be a beautiful lady. She devoted a great deal of time to ensuring that the girls had a solid female figure in their lives. She would, when necessary, go toe-to-toe with Tiara and remind her that she had a great deal of growing up to do and that nothing was free. She was the epitome of discipline and support...and helped her niece to see with her heart as opposed to with her eyes.
Reggie, the father, in encouraging her to seek the very best, neglected to let her know that everything that glittered wasn't gold. Because of her inability to see beyond what was present...she would make a poor choice that would prove to be as devastating for her and possibly for her father.
In the end, the very ones that she slighted, "the average ones," with snide remarks and punches, are the ones that were there for her. In the end, the "average ones," as her father would come to know, were more than worthy. Tiara's family of origin and friends (Rashad and Alice) would help her to see that beauty is more than skin deep. Using what you got....may mean that sometimes we have to hear the ugly truth...the ugly truth can be costly...but it can also richly reward.
Note: Because of the profanity utilized in the book...it should only be read by mature readers or those with parental permission.
Along with her sister, Tiara, was the apple of her father's eye. There is nothing that he wouldn't do for his girls. He proved that over and over again, so he thought, by never denying them anything. Their mother had walked out on them 12 years ago and he did not want them to ever hurt again. He had support from his sister when it came to the girls. Reggie had never placed limits on the girls. He stated he had raised Tiara to look for a "thoroughbred" and therefore, those with limited or average means were not worthy of her.
Her aunt was a phenomenal lady. Prior to an accident she was known to be a beautiful lady. She devoted a great deal of time to ensuring that the girls had a solid female figure in their lives. She would, when necessary, go toe-to-toe with Tiara and remind her that she had a great deal of growing up to do and that nothing was free. She was the epitome of discipline and support...and helped her niece to see with her heart as opposed to with her eyes.
Reggie, the father, in encouraging her to seek the very best, neglected to let her know that everything that glittered wasn't gold. Because of her inability to see beyond what was present...she would make a poor choice that would prove to be as devastating for her and possibly for her father.
In the end, the very ones that she slighted, "the average ones," with snide remarks and punches, are the ones that were there for her. In the end, the "average ones," as her father would come to know, were more than worthy. Tiara's family of origin and friends (Rashad and Alice) would help her to see that beauty is more than skin deep. Using what you got....may mean that sometimes we have to hear the ugly truth...the ugly truth can be costly...but it can also richly reward.
Note: Because of the profanity utilized in the book...it should only be read by mature readers or those with parental permission.
Read
January 8, 2009This book was okay, I didn't love it
I was happy that the selfish young girl learned her lesson. This is more of a coming of age story maybe a lesson that younger girls could learn from. A lot of people spoil their children in the attempt to keep them from straying don't realize what a bad effect it will be as well. They are always looking to be validated by material things. This book was okay, I didn't love it, I was happy that the selfish young girl learned her lesson. This is more of a coming of age story maybe a lesson that younger girls could learn from. A lot of people spoil their children in the attempt to keep them from straying don't realize what a bad effect it will be as well. They are always looking to be validated by material things.
The main character in this book Tiara, was superficial and senseless she believed everyone around her was jealous of her because she had nice things, and was going to college. Apparently she wasn't as smart as she thought she hooked up with Lionel a spoiled rich young fake thug drug dealer and didn't know it! She met a guy Rashad who drove a cab who wouldn't be bothered and of course he was jealous of her. The title was using what you got, all she ever said was "she got it like that!" I sure couldn't tell. People flossing coach and prada living in the projects, shoot spend that money to get you some bricks of your own!
I was happy that the selfish young girl learned her lesson. This is more of a coming of age story maybe a lesson that younger girls could learn from. A lot of people spoil their children in the attempt to keep them from straying don't realize what a bad effect it will be as well. They are always looking to be validated by material things. This book was okay, I didn't love it, I was happy that the selfish young girl learned her lesson. This is more of a coming of age story maybe a lesson that younger girls could learn from. A lot of people spoil their children in the attempt to keep them from straying don't realize what a bad effect it will be as well. They are always looking to be validated by material things.
The main character in this book Tiara, was superficial and senseless she believed everyone around her was jealous of her because she had nice things, and was going to college. Apparently she wasn't as smart as she thought she hooked up with Lionel a spoiled rich young fake thug drug dealer and didn't know it! She met a guy Rashad who drove a cab who wouldn't be bothered and of course he was jealous of her. The title was using what you got, all she ever said was "she got it like that!" I sure couldn't tell. People flossing coach and prada living in the projects, shoot spend that money to get you some bricks of your own!
August 23, 2010
The quality of the writing makes up for the predictability of the plot. I enjoyed the characters, and the pace of the story was just right.
GENRE: Fiction: Urban fiction, realistic fiction, problem solving.
SUBJECT/THEMES: Self improvement, greed, narcissism, ethical issues, personal growth, self-discovery.
SUMMARY: Tiara wants to nab the best man she can, get out of the projects, and prove to the young females still in the projects that they can be like her. The problem is, for Tiara, a good man is one that has lots of money, looks good, and will spoil her. Throughout the story, Tiara discovers what she really wants, and learns more about herself in the process.
EVALUATION: This was the first urban fiction book I’ve read, and I can understand the appeal. I found the book somewhat predictable, though that did not detract from my enjoyment. Tiara, her father and aunt, her male friends and her girlfriends all comprise very strong character roles, and I especially liked seeing how Tiara changed at the end of the story, for her greed and selfishness were becoming unbearable. This book had some language, some violence, and some alluding to sex (but no descriptions), yet was still shelved in the adult section of my library.
WHY I WOULD INCLUDE IT: It was easy to read, and written in such a natural manner that would appeal to urban youth that talk the same way the characters do, and understand the situations the characters deal with. This is a good example of urban fiction that does not need to be excessively graphic in order to have appeal and a message.
ITEMS WITH SIMILAR APPEAL:
• Bad Girls, by Shannon Holmes.
• Satin Nights, by Karen Quiones Miller.
• The Coldest Winter Ever: A Novel, by Sister Souljah.
• A Do Right Man, by Omar Tyree.
GENRE: Fiction: Urban fiction, realistic fiction, problem solving.
SUBJECT/THEMES: Self improvement, greed, narcissism, ethical issues, personal growth, self-discovery.
SUMMARY: Tiara wants to nab the best man she can, get out of the projects, and prove to the young females still in the projects that they can be like her. The problem is, for Tiara, a good man is one that has lots of money, looks good, and will spoil her. Throughout the story, Tiara discovers what she really wants, and learns more about herself in the process.
EVALUATION: This was the first urban fiction book I’ve read, and I can understand the appeal. I found the book somewhat predictable, though that did not detract from my enjoyment. Tiara, her father and aunt, her male friends and her girlfriends all comprise very strong character roles, and I especially liked seeing how Tiara changed at the end of the story, for her greed and selfishness were becoming unbearable. This book had some language, some violence, and some alluding to sex (but no descriptions), yet was still shelved in the adult section of my library.
WHY I WOULD INCLUDE IT: It was easy to read, and written in such a natural manner that would appeal to urban youth that talk the same way the characters do, and understand the situations the characters deal with. This is a good example of urban fiction that does not need to be excessively graphic in order to have appeal and a message.
ITEMS WITH SIMILAR APPEAL:
• Bad Girls, by Shannon Holmes.
• Satin Nights, by Karen Quiones Miller.
• The Coldest Winter Ever: A Novel, by Sister Souljah.
• A Do Right Man, by Omar Tyree.
June 23, 2021
Throughout this novel, I waited for something to make the main female character enduring or even tolerable. I waited till the very end and still didn't find anything. She was brash, ignorant, conceited, self-absorbed, and simply a brat. Everything was about her - always. She was the finest thing on the planet and anyone who didn't recognize that? Well, that was her loss, not hers.
So, if I feel this way, why did I give this novel 4 stars? Because I enjoyed the writing, structure, pace, and other characters. The voice came through loud and clear as did the setting. If the MFC had been just a little less painful, I would have given this book 5 stars.
The fact is, I've spent some time thinking about her and have concluded that, had the last chapter been written just a little differently (don't worry - no spoilers!), than I would have seen some real personal growth for her. I think had the author left out the internal monologue in that chapter, it would have made all the difference. But because it was included and because of the tone, it robbed the MFC of her character arc. And that makes me sad, honestly.
So, if I feel this way, why did I give this novel 4 stars? Because I enjoyed the writing, structure, pace, and other characters. The voice came through loud and clear as did the setting. If the MFC had been just a little less painful, I would have given this book 5 stars.
The fact is, I've spent some time thinking about her and have concluded that, had the last chapter been written just a little differently (don't worry - no spoilers!), than I would have seen some real personal growth for her. I think had the author left out the internal monologue in that chapter, it would have made all the difference. But because it was included and because of the tone, it robbed the MFC of her character arc. And that makes me sad, honestly.
June 22, 2017
I wanted to give up on this book numerous times because Tiara would have me fuming with her fucking attitude. Just extra All. The. Time. Miller's writing did not wow me at all but I was interested in seeing what was going to bring Tiara down a rung or three.
February 4, 2019
Was a very quick read, wish there had been more backstory and less predictability. The ending was also sort of stale but overall a good read.
April 4, 2019
My favorite book! I’ve read it four times!
February 10, 2020
Read this book as a teen! The author did a great job painting a vivid picture for readers. I was apart of a bookclub with my mom at the time. Nice to see this on the list.
December 25, 2024
There was a definite realness in this book. I enjoyed the characters!
January 20, 2025
I enjoyed this book even though the title doesn’t match the story imo. But overall a good story, it kept my attention.
May 22, 2025
DNF’d as soon as the main character called someone a r*tard, miss me w that bullshit😻
December 2, 2011
I actually stopped reading this book because I did not like the main character, Tiara. Glad I started back because it was good. I think its more Young Adult than Adult. Loved Reggie, the dad, and Charlene, the aunt. You can't go wrong with family like those.
August 16, 2012
I liked the father and the aunt in this book. I could not stand the main character and I think that is why I could only rate the story with two stars. The writing however, was not bad. And the main character comes around at the end of the story.
September 17, 2012
The book was ok. I struggled with Tiara. She really just didn't get it. Aunt Charlene was my favorite character in the book.
November 17, 2019
I hated the main character. I really just hated her and I am glad she learned a lesson at the end.
March 17, 2014
Contemporary African American fiction.
Very simplistic and predictable.
Self absorbed 18 year old.
Fighting, swearing, treat each other badly.
Very simplistic and predictable.
Self absorbed 18 year old.
Fighting, swearing, treat each other badly.
March 28, 2016
good book, the begining of reading her books
April 23, 2008
this book was very good i will read this book over and over thats how much i love this book
September 17, 2014
It's a great book just remind me of a lot of self absorbed teenagers.
April 24, 2017
I read this book a very long while ago and still think about it from time to time.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews