This is indeed a well researched book. This is not the same old anectdotal story telling that are so many of these books. This is good quality scholarship. I urge the author to develop this work into more precisely focused analyses that are publishable in quality scholarly journals. This is one of several books that I refer my student to when they tell me they want to learn about gangs. A well done book for those who want to learn, not just be entertained. If you are looking purely to be entertained, this likely is not an appropriate book for you. .... All others welcome too, but for legitimate scholarly business only.