Among the Thugs
Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1990
320
Biography • Nonfiction
England • 1980s
1990
Adult
18+ years
In Among the Thugs by Bill Buford, the author explores the dynamics of mob behavior at UK sporting events, particularly focusing on the violence and social unrest associated with football. Through eight years of interviews and firsthand experiences from 1982 to 1990, Buford delves into the economic frustrations and community functions that drive often violent young, working-class men to engage in riots and hooliganism. Sensitive topics include violent imagery and racial hatred.
Gritty
Unnerving
Dark
Suspenseful
Informative
10,455 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Among the Thugs by Bill Buford has garnered mixed reviews. Praised for its immersive journalism and vivid portrayal of football hooliganism, Buford's narrative is both gripping and unsettling. Critics, however, highlight its graphic violence and sometimes voyeuristic approach. Overall, the book is lauded for its raw honesty but criticized for lacking deeper social analysis.
Fans of gritty, immersive journalism who enjoyed Hunter S. Thompson’s Hell's Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs or George Orwell’s Down and Out in Paris and London will be drawn to Bill Buford’s Among the Thugs for its raw and vivid exploration of British football hooliganism.
10,455 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Biography • Nonfiction
England • 1980s
1990
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!