Wallbangin': Graffiti and Gangs in L.A.
YA-A superbly appealing cover invites readers to explore the world of graffiti, hip-hop, and gangs. What follows is a good introduction to hip-hop culture. Readers will gain new insight into the social, political, and economic world of the minority community. In addition, they'll learn new meanings for the words " friends," "family," and "foe." Phillips does a fine job of comparing and contrasting the lifestyles of young Chicano and African Americans of Southern California, who happen to be in gangs. The text is profusely illustrated but only a few of the photographs are in color, with gang members displaying their art. It delineates the effect neighborhood, politics, and culture have on daily life for these urban teens. The most outstanding feature of the book is the pride, spirit, and allegiance that come through in the voices of these young people. Teens will not view this book as a glorification of gang behavior, but rather as an objective look at a specific social group not readily covered in mainstream media. Gangs do exist in many communities and one hopes this book would provide interested parties with vital information on how to communicate with them. A must-read for anyone concerned about the future of Generation X.ayo dayo, Chinn Park Regional Library, Prince William, VACopyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.