Chris's review
Gang Leader for a Day
by Sudhir Venkatesh
Chris's review
Gang Leader for a Day by Sudhir Venkatesh
Chris's review
rating:
bookshelves:
memoir,
nonfiction
Excellent, excellent account of Sudhir Venkatesh's time doing research on Chicago crack gangs. Some of it can be found in his other books, but this is by far the most readable account. I learned a ton from this book.
Despite all I like about this book, it's not without its problems. He's much better off when talking about his research than his own experiences--the personal memoir stuff doesn't work as well. I also hate the phrase "rogue sociologist." In fact, no one should call themselves a "rogue" anything. The end is also a bit weaker than the first half. Still--great book that made a real impact on me. Well worth reading.
Despite all I like about this book, it's not without its problems. He's much better off when talking about his research than his own experiences--the personal memoir stuff doesn't work as well. I also hate the phrase "rogue sociologist." In fact, no one should call themselves a "rogue" anything. The end is also a bit weaker than the first half. Still--great book that made a real impact on me. Well worth reading.
