The South Side

As far as racial politics go, the past few years haven't been good for Chicago, and this audiobook explains why. Allyson Johnson narrates with the pathos, authority, and seriousness the book deserves. In a series of reports, the author, a city resident, analyzes why a neighborhood that is vibrant and multicultural is rife with crime and violence. There are no real surprises; poverty, racism, guns, questionable police shootings, and a dysfunctional political culture are all familiar problems. Johnson's low, clear voice and reportorial tone perfectly match the book's bleak but hopeful outlook, helping to make the book accessible for every listener. She also emphasizes Moore's point that these are people who deserve much better than what they are getting. R.I.G. © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine