The Ice Cream Man is a story about a man named Stanley Gibson. The abuse that Stanley endured as a child by the hands of his very own mother gave him a dark streak through life. Stanley grew to be very distant and shy. He craved love and attention from anyone who would give it to him. Stanley is also smart, handsome, generous, loving, and very creative in his young life. Stanley created a way to turn the pain of rejection into profit while filling the emptiness in his heart with joy. Stanley changed from an abused child to a violent and unpredictable adult. He began to loose respect for human life because his need for love is far more important. Stanley wants to be adored and needed by his peers. Stanley sends the Westside of South Central into an uproar.