Gang Leader For A Day: A Rogue Sociologist Crosses The Line

Sudhir Venkatesh, the young sociologist who became famous in "Freakonomics" (Why do drug dealers still live with their moms?), describes his time living with gangs on the South Side of Chicago and explores what it's like to live in such an environment. In the Robert Taylor Homes projects on Chicago's South Side, Sudhir befriends J.T., a gang leader for the Black Kings. As he gains J.T.'s trust, J.T. makes him the gang leader to demonstrate his own leadership qualities. The book delves into why J.T. encourages his members to stay in school, the difference between a 'regular' hustler and a 'hype,' and the challenges faced when the FBI begins cracking down on the gang.