Monster: The Autobiography of an LA Gang Member is a raw and powerful account of one man's journey through the world of gang violence and crime in Los Angeles. Written by Sanyika Shakur, also known as Monster Kody Scott, the book chronicles his life from his childhood in South Central LA to his involvement in the Crips gang and ultimately his transformation and redemption.
Shakur's upbringing was marked by poverty, abuse, and neglect, and he turned to the streets and the Crips as a way to find a sense of belonging and protection. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a leader within the gang, but the violence and lawlessness of gang life took a heavy toll on him and those around him. Shakur's involvement in a shooting incident ultimately landed him in prison, where he had time to reflect on his choices and the impact they had on his life and the lives of others.
Throughout the book, Shakur writes with brutal honesty about the realities of gang life and the cycle of violence that ensnares so many young people in inner cities. He doesn't shy away from describing the horrific acts he committed and the consequences he faced, but he also writes about the emotional and psychological toll that gang life took on him. In prison, he finds solace in reading and education, and he begins to see a way out of the cycle of violence and towards a more productive and fulfilling life.
One of the most poignant aspects of Monster is the way it illustrates the ways in which systemic issues, such as poverty and racism, contribute to the formation and perpetuation of gangs. Shakur writes about how the lack of opportunities and support for young people in his community pushed him towards the Crips, and how the gang provided a sense of purpose and belonging that he couldn't find elsewhere. He also writes about the ways in which racism and prejudice within the criminal justice system played a role in his own incarceration and the disproportionate impact it has on people of color.
Overall, Monster is a powerful and thought-provoking read that provides a unique and personal perspective on the world of gang violence and crime in Los Angeles. It's a reminder of the importance of addressing the root causes of these issues and providing support and opportunities for young people in underserved communities.
Monster : the autobiography of an L.A. gang member : Shakur, Sanyika, 1964
Strength of the book The strength of this book is that it is written from the first point of view. You think maybe he's coming to redemption towards the end, but just because he finds religion he doesn't accept who h For the first two-thirds of this book I literally couldn't put it down. Unfortunately, not many people in poverty stricken neighborhoods are interested in reading so their vocabulary isn't as broad. The perception that is picked from this theme is that religion plays a big role in ending or escalating violent behaviors. Because he's still proud of his gangbanging, despite his apparent conversion. Someone disrespects you so you kill them, to stand up for your stuff, but this guy who did the samething is now a target.
Monster : the autobiography of an L.A. gang member : Shakur, Sanyika, 1963
He's currently back in prison, and for all I care he can rot there. In terms of the writing the author's lack of education shines through, but it certainly feels real, even if it's a reality I wish never existed. In fact after researching him a bit on the side, it seems like he actually understated many of his attacks. I'm proud of his willingness to share all the corners of that reality: the good, the bad, the deadly, and the ugly. I'm still not sure I've articulated a coherent opinion of this, but I can tell you I didn't like it.
Monster: The Autobigraphy of an LA Gang Member
The way Sanyika Shakur related his life story reminded me in several respects of ' In 1994, I bought and read "MONSTER: The Autobiography of an L. You think maybe he's coming to redemption towards the end, but just because he finds religion he doesn't accept who he is or what he's done, other than that "it's done". Moreover, what makes his personal account hit home is the fact that he lays down the foundation of gangbanging and how the culture attributed to his own logic and theory of living in a highly dangerous working-class environment. I was hopeful when a Muslim preacher came in and struck a nerve with the boy who I believe was 15 at the time and in prison. Re-reading this makes for a depressing experience. He says that he earned the nickname "Monster" from his aggression in gang conflicts. Sanyika Shakur is a true survivor, considering everything that has taken place in his life he has managed to make something of himself from nothing.
Monster By Sanyika Shakur
Gang Member" based on the recommendation of a local talk radio host, who lavished praise on the book. Like the chicken and egg, what comes first? He also says that from the time he was accepted to the Crips, he lost his innocence. Gang Member Number Of Pages: 400 pages First Published in: May 1st 1993 Latest Edition: June 29th 2004 Language: English Genres: Formats: audible mp3, ePUB Android , kindle, and audiobook. I read this book when I was about 20 years old and in college as a part of an English class. Also in 2008, Shakur made his fiction debut with the publication of T. Upon release from San Quentin, Monster Kody Scott- O.
Monster: The Autobiography of an L.A. Gang Member (Book Review)
The book also reveals how a gang culture can destroy a society. . It was a wonderful way to learn about my heritage and I got to listen to her stories about when my Father was growing up in San Francisco. Moral of the story: keep trading one "us against them" mentality for another until you find one that justifies your violence and stupidity. Throughout, his narrative captures the senseless violence, the despair, and the hopelessness of the inner city. The book escalates quickly. By aligning himself with the New Afrikan movement, he supports payment of reparations and ownership of the southeastern US being transferred to a black nationalist state.
Monster: The Autobiography of an L.A. Gang Member
I never felt enlightened or opened to the "gang mentality", nor did he explain the technical aspects of the gang. With the unavoidable and predictable jail term cramped him to an utmost security cell, a complete personal and political transformation is followed. I grew up in Detroit so gang life was introduced to my world in junior high. He complains about being arrested when he beats a man and steals his car because he was selling drugs on Monster's street. When the main character asked himself , "who can I kill today? This title was a reward for his acts of violence, cruelty and brutality that he committed and these actions also revolted other members of the gang. The brutality that was experience by Sanyika was heart wrenching and yet, he presented the weird and twisted logic that accompanied all of his decisions. Overall, a very interesting book.
