Very enjoyable and gripping at times. Loved the story being told from the different characters point of view. Made the story move at a good pace.
Quite interesting and highly recommended.

Like the cult classic *The Warriors*, *The El* by Theodore C. Van Alst Jr. takes place over the course of a single day in 1979 during a summit where gangs gather for peace talks. However, one gang must fight their way back through a hostile city to their home turf.

Set in Chicago, which serves as a prominent character in the story, the author marries/replicates the Warriors narrative with the city's rich history. Before colonizers arrived, the area was inhabited by various Indigenous tribes, including the Potawatomi, Miami, and Illinois nations. Chicago later became a trading hub and a melting pot for immigrants due to its strategic location, which made it a significant meeting point. The city is also known for its political and police corruption, organized crime, and remains one of the most segregated cities in the country.

Through this one-day narrative, we are taken on a journey through diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique cultures and populations, much like passengers on the EL train. The gang itself represents a melting pot, offering a snapshot of the group's intersectionality and providing insight into their motivations and aspirations at this moment.

This book is perfect for fans of Tommy Orange, Kyle Edwards, and Aaron John Curtis. Special thanks to Knopf and NetGalley for the ARC.