Homeboys: Gangs, Drugs, and the Prison in the Barrios of Los Angeles

by Joan Moore, W. Joan Moore

Joan W. Moore is Professor at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. She is the author of "Mexican Americans" and co-author (with Leo Grebler) of "The Mexican American People."

Genres: Cultural

240 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1979

Reviews

[Elijah Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

A groundbreaking look inside the barrio
As someone interested in social justice and the complexities of urban life, Joan Moore's Homeboys: Gangs, Drugs, and Prison in the Barrios of Los Angeles was a truly impactful read. Originally published in the late 1970s, this book feels as relevant today as it was then, a testament to its deep and humane analysis. Moore, a sociologist, worked in a unique collaboration with ex-convicts and gang members, a methodology that gives the book its incredible power. It's not a detached academic study; it's a first-hand account built on trust and shared experience.
The book traces the history of two Chicano gangs in East Los Angeles, exploring how the social and economic changes in the barrios influenced their evolution. Moore's core argument is that gangs, rather than being simple criminal organizations, are a response to societal conditions. She delves into how the barrio's norms are replicated and reasserted within the prison system, creating a cycle that is incredibly difficult to break. This work highlights the institutionalization of gangs within the community and the prison system, and how this process affects generations.
What makes Homeboys so compelling is the voice it gives to the people living this reality. Moore includes direct excerpts from her interviews, allowing the gang members themselves to explain their lives, their relationships, and the motivations behind their choices. This approach provides a level of nuance and empathy that is often missing from more sensationalized portrayals. It challenges the reader to look beyond stereotypes and understand the gang as a surrogate family, a source of identity, and a means of survival in a world with limited opportunities.
This is a powerful, eye-opening read that I'd recommend to anyone interested in sociology, criminology, or the history of Los Angeles. While it's an academic text, Moore's collaborative approach makes it incredibly accessible and human. It left me with a much deeper understanding of a complex issue and a profound respect for the individuals who shared their stories. A must-read for a reason!