47 pages • 1 hour read
Renegade Dreams: Living Through Injury in Gangland Chicago
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Book Brief
256
Book • Nonfiction
Chicago, Illinois • 2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Renegade Dreams by Laurence Ralph is an ethnographic study of Eastwood, a West Side Chicago neighborhood, where Ralph examines the lives of residents grappling with gang violence, urban redevelopment, drug trade, and systemic inequities. Through individuals like Justin Cone, turned anti-violence activist, and retired gang leader Mr. Otis, Ralph explores community resilience, aspirations, and the complex social dynamics of urban life. The book addresses themes of injury and empowerment, striving for change, and the interplay of isolation and community integration. It contains descriptions of gang-related violence, drug abuse, police violence, and suicide.
Informative
Gritty
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
413 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Laurence Ralph's Renegade Dreams is praised for its empathetic ethnography and vivid portrayal of urban life in East Chicago. Reviewers commend its innovative approach to chronicling gang culture and community resilience. However, some critics feel the academic jargon could be more accessible to general readers. Overall, it's a compelling, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Renegade Dreams?
A reader who enjoys Renegade Dreams by Laurence Ralph is likely interested in urban anthropology, social justice, and the complexities of inner-city life. Similar works include The Corner by David Simon and Ed Burns and There Are No Children Here by Alex Kotlowitz, which also explore the struggles and resilience in marginalized communities.
413 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mr. Otis
Mr. Otis
A veteran member of the Divine Knights Gang, Mr. Otis is involved in preserving the gang’s history and is actively engaged in community efforts, including opposing redevelopment projects.
Justin Cone
Justin Cone
A former member of the Divine Knights Gang, Justin Cone is a respected community advocate confined to a wheelchair, working to raise awareness about violence and its consequences.
Darryl “Blizzard” Tremont
Darryl “Blizzard” Tremont
An aspiring rapper and former gang member, Blizzard pursues a career in music while contending with the legacy of his past involvement in the gang and its impact on his aspirations.
256
Book • Nonfiction
Chicago, Illinois • 2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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