33 pages • 1 hour read
Code of the Street
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
352
Book • Nonfiction
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • 1990s
1999
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Code of the Street by Elijah Anderson analyzes the ethical and cultural dynamics in high-poverty urban areas, focusing on how systemic forces shape behavior and worldviews. Through Germantown Avenue in Philadelphia, Anderson explores "decent" and "street" families, the quest for respect, the underground economy, sexual norms, and the roles of fathers and grandmothers in the community. Topics include violence, drug addiction, and economic desperation.
Gritty
Mysterious
Unnerving
Challenging
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
2,079 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Elijah Anderson's Code of the Street is widely praised for its in-depth ethnographic study of inner-city African American communities, providing valuable sociological insights. Reviews commend its compelling narrative and clear exposition of "street" and "decent" family dynamics. However, some criticize its narrow focus and occasional anecdotal generalizations.
Who Should Read Code of the Street?
Readers who are fascinated by urban sociology, street culture, and the dynamics of inner-city life will enjoy Code of the Street by Elijah Anderson. Comparable to Gang Leader for a Day by Sudhir Venkatesh and There Are No Children Here by Alex Kotlowitz, it's ideal for those seeking an in-depth, ethnographic perspective.
2,079 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Betty Washington
Betty Washington
A grandmother striving to keep her family together while supporting her daughter through challenges, embodying the role of the archetypal inner-city Black grandmother.
Mr. Johnson
Mr. Johnson
A metaphorical character representing a strong paternal figure and a dependable male role model within the community, admired by young men for his care and stability.
John Turner
John Turner
A young man from the inner city featured in the last chapter, with whom Anderson shares a personal connection, illustrating the challenges of adhering to the street code while striving for legitimacy.
Tyree
Tyree
A 15-year-old boy who navigates the street code in his new neighborhood, showcasing themes of respect, bravery, and the challenges of integration among peers.
Yvette
Yvette
A young woman pursuing a college education with aspirations of becoming a doctor, who represents the struggle between "decent" family values and the street-associated perspectives of her extended family.
352
Book • Nonfiction
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • 1990s
1999
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.