Gang Leader for a Day

Sudhir Venkatesh

Sudhir Venkatesh, a young sociologist who gained recognition with "Freakonomics" (notably questioning, "Why do drug dealers still live with their moms?"), shares his immersive experience with gangs in Chicago's Southside. This narrative explores another intriguing question: What is the reality of living in such challenging environments? Within the confines of the Robert Taylor Homes, a notorious housing project, Sudhir builds a rapport with J.T., a prominent leader of the Black Kings gang. As their friendship deepens, J.T. seeks to demonstrate his leadership skills, akin to those of a CEO, by appointing Sudhir as the gang leader for a day. Through this experience, Sudhir discovers why J.T. insists that his younger members, the 'shorties', remain in school. However, as the FBI begins to intensify its efforts against the Black Kings, a pressing question arises: Should Sudhir distance himself, or has he become too deeply involved to leave?

• ISBN-13: 9780141030913
• Author: Sudhir Venkatesh
• Publisher: Penguin Books
• Language: English
• Format: Paperback
• Year of Publication: 2009
• Number of Pages: 320
• Dimensions: 129×197×19 mm
• Weight: 232 g