Ghetto Brothers
Warrior to Peacemaker
The best way to stay safe living in the Bronx in the 1960s and ‘70s was to join a gang, which was exactly what Benjamin “Benjy” Melendez, the son of Puerto Rican immigrants, did, eventually forming and running the Ghetto Brothers gang. Voloj traces Benjy’s story, the rising gang violence, and the surprising Hoe Avenue Peace Treaty in a fascinating examination of the events that led to the emergence of Hip Hop. It’s also a personal story of survival, loss, oppression, and reclaiming one’s heritage. Gorgeous black-and-white watercolor illustrations enhance this inspiring true story.
Reviewed by
Allyce Amidon
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
