The book, There Are No Children Here, tells the true story of two boys growing up in the public housing projects of Chicago. Although the story takes place in the 1980’s it is still very relevant to the problems in urban poverty today. The book delves into a world of drugs, gangs, and violence. This world still exists today and many people are unaware of it. The book captures what life is like for African Americans in the projects. As the author follows the lives of Lafeyette and Paroah Rivers, 10 and 7 years old, he shows how quickly these boys must grow up. At their young age the boys must worry about gang wars right outside their home and their friends being killed every day. The book also refutes the stereotype about people who live in the projects. Many people see people in the projects as lazy, aggressive, and criminals. The boys who Kotlowitz follows are not criminals, drug abusers, or fighters. They are innocent boys. This book shows that people who live in the projects were just innocent kids like, Lafeyette and Pharoah, and are shaped by their surroundings. The book also has some focus on a current issue; police brutality. In the news there have recently been incidents of police using excessive force towards African Americans. This book shows the complexity of that issue. Anyone who has a strong opinion about whether or not police brutality is an issue of race or compliancy, or lack thereof, with police should read this book. It opened my eyes to the lack of trust between police and African Americans in the projects. It is hard to place blame on anyone because of the hopeless situation people are caught up in. The book is an easy read. It has lots of description and a compelling story which keeps the reader entertained. The shocking and devastating reality of people’s lives are depressing and ignite a desire to make a difference. Anyone who cares about people should read this book.