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Ghettoside

384 pages, 2015

history

history

999 books
economics & politics

economics & politics

987 books
Takeaways
Description

Born and raised in the forgotten streets of South LA, homicide detective John Skaggs was destined to be a pioneer in his field. Anxious to prove himself as a member of the LAPD, Skaggs entered the LAPD academy at an older age than most recruits. 

As he grew older and gained experience, Skaggs became involved with one of the most notorious cases within his precinct--the murder of a young black man by another young black man. However, this case would not be like other unsolved homicides; it would change the way homicides were investigated in the city of Los Angeles forever.

The Reality of Homicide Investigations

In Ghettoside, Jill Leovy gives us a real look into the world of homicide investigations. She shows us that it's not like what we see on TV. It's a tough job that requires dedication, patience, and a strong stomach. It's a world where justice is often hard to find, but the fight for it never stops.

The Impact of Race and Class

Leovy doesn't shy away from exploring the role of race and class in crime and justice. She shows us how these factors can influence the way crimes are investigated and how justice is served. It's a sobering look at the realities of life in America's ghettos.

The Importance of Good Policing

One of the key messages in Ghettoside is the importance of good policing. Leovy shows us that when police do their jobs well, they can make a real difference in communities. But when they fail, the consequences can be devastating.

The Human Side of Crime

Leovy doesn't just focus on the facts and figures of crime. She also takes us into the lives of the people affected by it. We see the pain of the victims' families, the struggles of the investigators, and the complex emotions of the perpetrators. It's a powerful reminder that crime is not just a statistic, but a human tragedy.

The Power of Persistence

In Ghettoside, we see the power of persistence. Despite the challenges and setbacks, the investigators keep pushing forward in their quest for justice. It's a lesson that can inspire us all to keep going, no matter what obstacles we face.

Quotes 4

Ghettoside is a serious and kaleidoscopic achievement of reportage. It's a stark portrayal of the tragic contours of race and law enforcement in Los Angeles.

David SimonDavid Simon - Television Writer

Ghettoside is a brilliant taxonomic investigation into the American violence epidemic disguised as a highly entertaining true crime book.

Malcolm GladwellMalcolm Gladwell - Journalist, Author

Ghettoside is a compelling analysis of the often invisible, yet deeply entwined relationship between murder and justice in America.

Michael ConnellyMichael Connelly - Crime Writer

Ghettoside is a riveting, immersive journey through a system that is overwhelmed, misunderstood, and tragically neglected.

Atul GawandeAtul Gawande - Surgeon, Writer
David SimonMalcolm GladwellMichael ConnellyAtul Gawande

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187 books

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