Why Do People Join Gangs? (Exploring Tough Issues)

From School Library Journal Gr 5-8-Concise and well written, this book provides an overview of the problem, focusing on the United States, but discussing other countries as well. The questions of who, what, and why are clearly answered and terms are explained in the text and in a glossary. Several chapters on bullying give the reasons for it and how to deal with it; getting out of a gang is also addressed. Two-page topics include "Rites and rituals," "Gang mentality," "Gang identity," and "Drug dealing and protection rackets." Each spread includes three to five paragraphs of text and full-color, posed photos with captions. This book could be used by guidance counselors in groups or with individual students. Any victims of bullying should find it helpful.