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344
Reference/Text Book • Nonfiction
Massachusetts • 1970s
1987
Adult
18+ years
Ain’t No Makin’ It by Jay MacLeod examines the lives of two groups—Hallway Hangers and Brothers—in the Clarendon Heights public housing project, exploring how race, class, and education shape their aspirations and chances for upward mobility. There are discussions of poverty, racial discrimination, substance use, and systemic inequality.
Informative
Challenging
Melancholic
Contemplative
Unnerving
1,166 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Jay MacLeod's Ain't No Makin' It is praised for its in-depth ethnographic study and its illumination of class and socio-economic mobility barriers. Critics value its insightful examination of how social structures impact aspirations. Some note that it may feel overly analytical or dense. Overall, it’s seen as a significant contribution to understanding inequality.
Readers passionate about sociology, education, and social inequality will find Jay MacLeod’s Ain't No Makin' It compelling. Similar to Jonathan Kozol's Savage Inequalities and Paul Willis' Learning to Labor, it delves into the impact of class and race on aspirations and opportunities, offering rich ethnographic insights.
1,166 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Freddie Piniella
A character whose journey from skepticism about education to becoming a medical technician exemplifies resilience and the ongoing challenges faced in maintaining socioeconomic achievements.
The Hallway Hangers
A group of teenagers characterized by their defiance and skepticism towards societal structures, often engaging in survival strategies within their challenging socioeconomic environment.
The Brothers
A group of teenagers who embody resilience and an optimistic pursuit of upward mobility through education and community involvement, often contrasting with the Hallway Hangers.
Frankie (Hallway Hangers)
A dominant figure among the Hallway Hangers whose leadership and outlook are shaped by his ties to his family's background and the pervasive challenges in his community.
Boo-Boo (Hallway Hangers)
A character whose involvement in criminal activities and untimely death highlight the severe consequences of systemic neglect within marginalized communities.
Mokey (The Brothers)
A member of the Brothers whose experiences in the secondary labor market underscore the challenges of achieving stable employment in a stratified economy.
Super (The Brothers)
A character whose belief in education and pursuit of stable employment are supported by his family, demonstrating the role of supportive relationships in overcoming adversity.
344
Reference/Text Book • Nonfiction
Massachusetts • 1970s
1987
Adult
18+ years
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