'Ghettoside' by Jill Leovy dives deep into the heart of Los Angeles' violent neighborhoods, exploring the complexities of homicide investigations. Through the lens of a murdered young man's story, the book unveils the struggles of police detectives battling to solve crimes often dismissed by society. Leovy intricately examines the impact of systemic inequalities on urban violence and the lives of the inhabitants. With gripping narratives and poignant insights, she challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about race, justice, and community. This compelling exploration leaves you questioning what truly defines safety and justice in America.
By Jill Leovy
Published: 2015
"'In a landscape shaped by violence, the quest for justice becomes a profound act of faith.'"
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • NAMED ONE OF THE TEN BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE, USA TODAY, AND CHICAGO TRIBUNE • A masterly work of literary journalism about a senseless murder, a relentless detective, and the great plague of homicide in America NATIONAL BOOK CRITICS CIRCLE AWARD FINALIST • NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY The New York Times Book Review • The Washington Post • The Boston Globe • The Economist • The Globe and Mail • BookPage • Kirkus Reviews On a warm spring evening in South Los Angeles, a young man is shot and killed on a sidewalk minutes away from his home, one of the thousands of black Americans murdered that year. His assailant runs down the street, jumps into an SUV, and vanishes, hoping to join the scores of killers in American cities who are never arrested for their crimes. But as soon as the case is assigned to Detective John Skaggs, the odds shift. Here is the kaleidoscopic story of the quintessential, but mostly ignored, American murder—a “ghettoside” killing, one young black man slaying another—and a brilliant and driven cadre of detectives whose creed is to pursue justice for forgotten victims at all costs. Ghettoside is a fast-paced narrative of a devastating crime, an intimate portrait of detectives and a community bonded in tragedy, and a surprising new lens into the great subject of why murder happens in our cities—and how the epidemic of killings might yet be stopped. Praise for Ghettoside “A serious and kaleidoscopic achievement . . . [Jill Leovy is] a crisp writer with a crisp mind and the ability to boil entire skies of information into hard journalistic rain.”—Dwight Garner, The New York Times “Masterful . . . gritty reporting that matches the police work behind it.”—Los Angeles Times “Moving and engrossing.”—San Francisco Chronicle “Penetrating and heartbreaking . . . Ghettoside points out how relatively little America has cared even as recently as the last decade about the value of young black men’s lives.”—USA Today “Functions both as a snappy police procedural and—more significantly—as a searing indictment of legal neglect . . . Leovy’s powerful testimony demands respectful attention.”—The Boston Globe
Showing 8 of 30 similar books
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known as AOC, is a U.S. Congresswoman representing New York's 14th district. She gained national attention after winning her seat in 2018 at the age of 29, making her one of the youngest women ever elected to Congress. Ocasio-Cortez is known for her progressive policies, advocating for issues such as Medicare for All, climate change action, and economic justice. She has become a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and uses social media to engage with constituents and the public. Her rise from grassroots activism to Congress has inspired many young people to get involved in politics.
Brandon Stanton is an American photographer and author, best known for creating Humans of New York, a photography project that shares the personal stories of everyday people. Through his portraits and interviews, Stanton captures the diverse experiences of people in New York City and around the world, offering intimate insights into their lives. Humans of New York has become a global phenomenon, with millions of followers on social media and several best-selling books. Stanton’s work has expanded beyond photography to include fundraising campaigns that have raised millions of dollars for individuals and charitable causes. His ability to connect with people and share their stories has made him one of the most impactful storytellers of his generation.
Alexis Ohanian is an American entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Reddit, one of the world’s most popular social news and discussion platforms. Ohanian is also a prominent advocate for open internet and net neutrality, and he has invested in numerous startups through his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital. In addition to his work in tech, Ohanian is involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to women’s rights, education, and social justice. He is married to tennis star Serena Williams, and together they advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. Ohanian’s influence in the tech world and his commitment to social impact have made him a respected figure in both business and activism.
Alex Honnold is an American professional rock climber, best known for his free solo ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a feat that was documented in the Oscar-winning film Free Solo. Honnold is renowned for his mental toughness, technical skill, and ability to climb without ropes or safety equipment. His accomplishments have made him a legend in the climbing world, and he continues to push the boundaries of the sport. Outside of climbing, Honnold is a philanthropist, founding the Honnold Foundation, which supports environmental sustainability projects, particularly in solar energy.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Aileen Lee is a distinguished venture capitalist and founder of Cowboy Ventures, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies. She is widely known for coining the term "unicorn" to describe startups valued at over $1 billion, significantly impacting how the tech industry views high-growth companies. Lee's keen eye for innovation and her advocacy for diversity in tech have made her a prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Beyond her financial acumen, she has authored insightful articles on entrepreneurship and startup culture, contributing valuable perspectives to business literature. Lee's work continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and investors.
Jamie Foxx is an American actor, comedian, and singer, known for his versatility across various forms of entertainment. He won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Ray Charles in the biopic Ray and has appeared in numerous films, including Django Unchained and Collateral. Foxx is also a successful musician, having released multiple albums and collaborated with top artists in the music industry. His ability to move between comedy, drama, and music has made him one of the most talented and respected performers in Hollywood. Beyond his entertainment career, Foxx is a philanthropist, supporting various causes related to health and education.
Lisa Ling is an acclaimed journalist, television presenter, and author known for her insightful storytelling and investigative reporting. She gained prominence as a co-host of ABC's "The View" and later as the executive producer and host of "This Is Life with Lisa Ling" on CNN. Ling has authored several impactful books, including "Mother, Daughter, Sister, Bride: Rituals of Womanhood" and "Somewhere Inside," co-written with her sister Laura, chronicling Laura's captivity in North Korea. Her work often highlights underreported issues and marginalized communities, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards. Ling's contributions continue to shape public discourse and inspire change through compelling narratives and brave journalism.
Showing 8 of 17 related collections
“'In a landscape shaped by violence, the quest for justice becomes a profound act of faith.'”
Ghettoside
By Jill Leovy
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Jill Leovy is an acclaimed American author and journalist, best known for her book "Ghettoside: A True Story of Murder in America," which examines the complexities of homicide in South Los Angeles and won critical praise for its in-depth analysis and narrative style. Leovy's writing is characterized by meticulous research and a compelling narrative voice, blending elements of nonfiction with the immediacy of fiction to bring her subjects to life. A former staff writer for the Los Angeles Times, she has also contributed essays and articles to various publications, showcasing her keen insight into urban issues and crime.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "Sleep Solutions for Your Baby," expert pediatricians unveil the secrets to transforming sleepless nights into peaceful slumbers. Discover a treasure trove of evidence-based strategies tailored to your baby’s unique sleep patterns and temperament. From soothing bedtime rituals to understanding the science behind sleep cycles, this guide empowers exhausted parents with practical solutions. Dive into relatable stories that illuminate common challenges and celebrate small victories along the journey. Are you ready to reclaim your nights and help your baby drift off to dreamland?
In "Between the World and Me," Ta-Nehisi Coates crafts a poignant letter to his son, illuminating the harsh realities of growing up African American in a society steeped in racial injustice. As he shares his personal experiences and struggles, Coates unearths the deep scars of history that shape the black experience in America. The narrative weaves together themes of identity, vulnerability, and resilience, urging readers to confront uncomfortable truths. With lyrical prose and raw honesty, Coates invites us to understand the weight of a body in a world that often overlooks its humanity. This powerful exploration leaves an indelible mark, challenging us to reconsider our own place in the ongoing conversation about race and belonging.
No summary available
In 'The Spanish Cockpit,' Franz Borkenau offers a gripping first-hand account of the Spanish Civil War, immersing readers in the chaos and fervor of revolutionary Spain. He explores the ideological battles between communism, fascism, and democracy, painting a vivid portrait of the diverse factions fighting for control. Through encounters with soldiers, politicians, and ordinary citizens, Borkenau reveals the human cost of war and the complexity of allegiance. As Spain teeters on the brink of transformation, the narrative captures the urgency and uncertainty of a nation in crisis. This compelling chronicle challenges readers to ponder the fragility of freedom and the stark realities of political strife.
In 'The American Occupation of Japan', Michael Schaller delves into the transformative years following World War II, exploring how American forces reshaped Japanese society, politics, and culture. Through vivid accounts and meticulous research, he unveils the complexities of this unique period where East met West under extraordinary circumstances. As Japan navigated the challenges of democratization and economic recovery, the interplay of Japanese resilience and American influence forged a new political landscape. Schaller’s narrative prompts readers to reconsider stereotypes and the historical implications of this unprecedented occupation. What lessons remain from this pivotal chapter, and how did it set the stage for modern Japan?
In 'No Gods, No Masters', Daniel Guérin presents a compelling exploration of anarchism, tracing its philosophical roots and revolutionary practices. He argues against imposed authority, advocating for a society based on mutual aid and voluntary cooperation. The book chronicles historical movements and figures that shaped anarchist thought, igniting curiosity about the untold stories of resistance. With a mesmerising narrative, Guérin challenges readers to rethink concepts of power and freedom. This thought-provoking work not only inspires but also raises questions about the future of social justice.
In 'Cambodia, 1975-1982', Michael Vickery unveils the harrowing realities of life under the Khmer Rouge regime. Through meticulous research and compelling narratives, he reveals the profound impacts of war and genocide on Cambodian society. Readers are taken deep into the struggles of survival, resistance, and the haunting memories that persist long after the violence subsides. Vickery's work challenges prevailing historical narratives, urging us to confront uncomfortable truths. This powerful account is not just a history lesson; it's a poignant reminder of resilience and the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.
In 'The Ultimate Sales Machine,' Chet Holmes unveils a revolutionary approach to dramatically boost sales and streamline business operations. With a focus on relentless execution, he introduces the concept of prioritizing the key strategies that yield exponential results. Holmes emphasizes the importance of mastering time management and developing a world-class sales team through systematic coaching. Packed with actionable insights, this book challenges conventional sales tactics and equips readers with tools to stand out in a competitive market. Are you ready to transform your business into an unstoppable sales machine?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
