FLOATING CITY A Rogue Sociologist Lost and Found in New York's Underground Economy

The author first rose to prominence with his study of Chicago gangs, for which he gained access to their daily activities. Now he's back with an examination of the underground economy of New York City. Narrating his own work, Venkatesh takes listeners with him as he struggles to make inroads into the illicit activities that take place in the big city. Initially finding it difficult to find his footing, Venkatesh eventually makes some helpful connections, ultimately uncovering bridges between rich and poor through his interviews with sex workers, immigrants, and drug dealers. The author's narration of his own work is especially instructive and illustrative because of his familiarity with his subjects. S.E.G. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2013]