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Duke
"A novel of teen-age gangsters that will both shock and awaken you."
158 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1949
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March 25, 2026
Had this been written at a later time, it would be considered an exploitation crime novel. But since it was written in 1949, the author frames it as a warning about inner city youth and gang culture.
The protagonist is Duke. He’s 15 and the president of a gang, runs weed for the local dealer, and eventually gets into pimping. Smokes “charge” every day and is abusive when he drinks.
Most of the narrative focuses on his paranoia and self consciousness. He’s constantly worried that his hands are too small, clothes are too cheap , or voice is too deep. Not sure if the author makes Duke feel this way as a warning about drugs and crime or just to paint a picture about a young man growing up and making poor choices. It doesn’t feel like intentional exploitation and suffers for it because it neither exciting nor authentic.
The protagonist is Duke. He’s 15 and the president of a gang, runs weed for the local dealer, and eventually gets into pimping. Smokes “charge” every day and is abusive when he drinks.
Most of the narrative focuses on his paranoia and self consciousness. He’s constantly worried that his hands are too small, clothes are too cheap , or voice is too deep. Not sure if the author makes Duke feel this way as a warning about drugs and crime or just to paint a picture about a young man growing up and making poor choices. It doesn’t feel like intentional exploitation and suffers for it because it neither exciting nor authentic.
Displaying 1 of 1 review