Duke

by Hal Ellson, Rudy Belarski (Illustrator)

[Back Cover]"HE RAN A HARLEM BROTHEL AT FIFTEENGirls, to Duke, meant cash before pleasure. In his vice-ridden world they rated lower than liquor or marijuana. He ran his gang of teen age hoodlums with fists, feet and a gun. His operations included rape, murder, pimping, and smuggling dope. He made his own law. And his code was the savage code of the slum-jungle that was the only home he knew. This novel is shocking---and true. It is the day-to-day story of the life of a teen age Harlem gang boss. It is grim and brutal, sometimes almost unbelievable. If you are squeamish, or if you prefer to ignore a dangerous social condition which even now is almost out of control, this novel is not for you."

Paperback

First published January 1, 1949

Reviews

[Ryan · Rating 2 out of 5]

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.