49 pages • 1 hour read
In Search of Respect: Selling Crack in El Barrio
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Book Brief
432
Book • Nonfiction
East Harlem, New York • 1980s-1990s
1995
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Search of Respect: Selling Crack in El Barrio by Philippe Bourgois is an ethnographic study focusing on East Harlem's underground economy, where Bourgois befriends local drug dealers to understand the impact of systemic racism and social marginalization on their lives. Through their stories, he explores themes of respect, self-worth, and the harsh reality of poverty, proposing changes to societal and political attitudes to address these issues effectively. The book discusses themes that may be triggering for some readers, such as drug use and violence.
Gritty
Informative
Unnerving
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
3,791 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Philippe Bourgois' In Search of Respect earns praise for its compelling ethnographic study of New York's inner-city communities, offering deep insights into systemic poverty and drug culture. The narrative's raw, honest portrayal is both a strength and a drawback, as some find it unsettling. The detailed, empathetic approach, however, elevates it as a powerful academic resource.
Who Should Read In Search of Respect?
In Search of Respect by Philippe Bourgois will captivate readers interested in urban anthropology, social justice, and life within marginalized communities. Comparable to those who appreciated The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman or There Are No Children Here by Alex Kotlowitz.
3,791 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ray
Ray
The owner of the Game Room crackhouse, who plays a crucial role in introducing Bourgois to the underground world and whose businesses reflect his complex persona.
Primo
Primo
A crack dealer and user whom Bourgois befriends, known for his storytelling and struggles with maintaining a stable job in the legal economy.
Caesar
Caesar
A violent crack dealer and user subcontracted at the Game Room, struggling with legal employment and exhibiting tense relationships with other characters.
Candy
Candy
A defiant and outspoken woman connected to the original owner of the Game Room, known for defying gender roles and her tumultuous relationship with Felix.
432
Book • Nonfiction
East Harlem, New York • 1980s-1990s
1995
Adult
18+ years
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