Always Running by Luis J. Rodriguez

Initiated into an East L.A. gang when he was 12 years old, Rodriguez experienced more in his teen years than most people would experience in a dozen lifetimes. This memoir is positively brutal. Though a bit of a poet when it comes to writing style, the author does not attempt to sugar-coat the violence and destruction that surrounds a poverty-stricken community that is saturated with gangs. I thought he did a thorough job explaining the economic and political influences that contribute to gang life, but it was frustrating to see how certain initiatives resulted in improvements only to fizzle out when funds and support became unavailable. However, there were a few positive mentors who made a substantial difference in this man's life, and that was encouraging. It's a very subjective viewpoint. I can see why/how this book has caused so much controversy. But at the same time, I can also see why so many young people are engaged and influenced by this tale. Honestly, I wouldn't recommend it to just anybody: if you're interested in gang life and/or the effects of poverty, and you are strong enough to handle the truth of what goes on in the barrios, it will certainly give you some new insights. But prepare to be disturbed. Favorite Quote: "'The fight for a better life won't stop just because you aren't ready. What we're doing is not something you decide to do when you feel like it. Whether you're ready or not, this struggle will go on. . . you have to make a choice now. Either the craziness and violence - or here, learning and preparing for a world in which none of this is necessary.'"