Compliments of Chicagohoodz: Chicago Street Gang Art & Culture

This is an amazing book that tells a hidden history that's just as vital and maybe more real than the history taught in school. It has a wealth of knowledge, art and photos. You can tell it was real workof love by the authors. If you're interested and gang culture, hip hop culture or graffiti you won't be disappointed having this book on your shelves. If you're not into those things check out this book anyway it's just a super interesting anthropological window into another world.

I knew some of the names; Joe Ganci, Baby King, Little Dave, Tarzan. I still have some cards & stationery from '80-83 era and a Polaroid photo of my buddies with a captured "war" sweater. So surreal to be in my upper 60's now fighting the effects of old age... This book documents what the old timers said was true.

This is perhaps the greatest book I own regarding the subject of Chicago gangs. Keeping in mind that this is not a full biographical book such as "Lords of Lawndale" or "My Bloody Life", this is a collection of mural art, groups pictures, emblems, and information on the many gangs that contributed to the unique culture of Chicago. This especially captures the realm of 80s/90s groups but also goes a bit ahead as well as further back. This guy really knows his stuff and has documented the subject for many years. He may even be remembered by some readers as having a detailed website way back in the day by the same name of this book (Chicago Hoodz). I hope someday to see a sequel!

Highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Chicago history, gangs, crime, art or anything of that nature. This hefty volume compiles decades of firsthand research alongside a plethora of relics from the culture, ranging from "compliment cards" to gang cardigan sweaters pulled from Jinx's formidable collection. It is well-organized and written, taking a deep dive into an even deeper history. Despite not being fully encyclopedia (which is nearly impossible) it covers a wide range of subjects and eras, while also offering many specific stories and anecdotes related by current and former gang members. Bottom line is that it's the most extensive history on the subject to date. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy!

A truly fascinating dive into an encapsulated, complex world of street politics. Anyone who is interested in the history of Chicago or American metropolises at large---this book lays out a detailed, colorful map of the large role gangs have played in Chicago's rocky, bloody trip through the 20th century, from street corners to political offices. Gives you an in-depth picture of how the "Social Athletic Clubs" of yesteryear gradually deteriorated and led all the way to the more ultra-violent Chicago of today. A huge part of this history are the unique symbols, insignia, and means of communication these gangs used, which are on full display here in a way that you won't find anywhere else. These guys really put the work in. Bravo to Jinx and Mr. C!

A tour through Chicago's street gangs that exposes the shifting racial and cultural climate throughout the city. I was fascinated by the early social clubs and how they sponsored neighborhood events and identity. Jinx's collection of clothing and photos is an amazing archive of street and gang culture. More than just an oddity, the book has weight and depth given by the almost scientific study by the authors. A fascinating read that is still relevant today as these neighborhoods see an influx of both gentrification and foreign migration. The printing of the book is very well made with many intriguing color images.

I Just Got The Book Today and They had alot of gangs that i didn't know about. I was born on the southside and All i knew was GD,VL,BPSN,LK,MLD,BD. Then i moved to Atlanta and i saw alot of GD's a few VL and Stones sprinkled throughout Atl. But everything else is very real and you had to know how to move around Chicago.

My favorite graffiti book of all time. I’m more into traditional “hip-hop” graffiti, but this book takes the cake. It gave me some great influences into my own art. This book in like an encyclopedia, but cooler. The photos are epic and so are the stories.