More than eighty percent of American cities with a population of 100,000 or more report gang activity. Most of these gangs are made up of members who are eight to twenty-two years old. These statistics point to a larger unfortunate truth, at some point, our youth will have an encounter or an experience with gangs. It is important that they understand this world and how it operates. This collection of essays helps readers navigate the issues. Readers will analyze whether gangs are a growing suburban problem, if gang activity is increasing among girls, the role of immigration and gang activity, and measures that reduce gang involvement. Colorful photographs, charts, graphs, and images reinforce the text and present essential data.
