Introduction
Ghettoside: A True Story of Murder in America is an intense and powerful book by author Jill Leovy. It is a narrative of the death of a young African American man named Bryant Tennelle and the investigation and aftermath that occurred in the wake of his death. Leovy makes a compelling argument about the impact of violence in America, particularly in inner cities, and how it affects African Americans.
Book Review
The book follows Bryant and his family as they cope with the consequences of his death and the ensuing inquiry. Leovy provides an in-depth look into the criminal justice system and how it works in inner cities. She paints a vivid picture of the culture of violence and the lack of justice and accountability that exists in these communities (Leovy, 2015). Through her interviews and research, Leovy paints a picture of a system that is broken and corrupt, and how it has perpetuated violence and a lack of justice for African Americans.
The author examines how racism affects the disparities in the way different races are treated by the criminal justice system and the outcomes they experience. She argues that African Americans are more likely to be victims of violence due to a lack of police presence in their neighborhoods and that they are more likely to receive harsher penalties than those of other racial backgrounds (Leovy, 2015). She argues that this is a systemic problem that has been perpetuated by institutional racism and a lack of accountability within the criminal justice system.
Conclusion
Leovy’s book is an essential and powerful examination of violence, racism, and injustice in America. It should be read by anyone looking to gain insight into these issues. It is a vivid, heartbreaking, and eye-opening account of the reality of the criminal justice system. It is an important book that should be read by anyone looking to gain an understanding of the systemic issues that exist in our society.
Work Cited
Leovy, Jill. Ghettoside: A true story of murder in America. One World, 2015.