Review of Chicago Crime Story
-
Nancy004
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 481
- Joined: 05 May 2023, 23:18
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 169
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-nancy004.html
- Latest Review: Why Paul by S. R. Ely
Review of Chicago Crime Story
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Chicago Crime Story" by Frank Goff.]
Chicago Crime Story by Frank Goff offers a raw and brutally honest view of life as a police officer in Chicago. The author takes readers into the harsh realities of his job, revealing the challenges of fighting crime in a city plagued by violence while also striving to maintain a sense of humanity.
Goff begins his book by warning readers that if they can't handle the harsh realities of human cruelty, they should reconsider reading it. I agree with his caution because the book, with its 42 chapters, reveals uncomfortable truths through one story after another. It highlights the immense emotional resilience required by the police, from interviewing rape victims to going undercover in criminal gangs. The job demands sharp instincts to identify criminals that others might miss, quick decision-making in high-pressure situations, and sometimes handling tasks they're not trained for, like delivering a baby—all while risking their own lives. But the dangers aren't just physical; police also have to navigate corruption within their own ranks, legal challenges, and the flaws of the justice system. On the flip side, the book also sheds light on the compassionate side of policing—rescuing children from abusive homes, de-escalating situations with unstable individuals, ensuring the elderly receive proper care, and inspiring the next generation to join the force.
One of the book's greatest strengths is the author's raw and candid portrayal of his job in the Chicago Police Department. For example, his interview with a rape victim is so detailed and unfiltered that it made me flinch and pause in disgust. It's hard to imagine how he managed to sit through that interview, but his honesty and willingness to share these difficult experiences add depth and authenticity to the book.
Another positive aspect of the book is how the author illustrates the critical judgment needed to determine when to use deadly force. He compares two seemingly similar situations in back-to-back chapters: in both cases, the individuals had deadly weapons, but one was a criminal, while the other was an innocent civilian set up to look like a criminal. The author explains that a cop's decision to use deadly force involves considering numerous factors, such as the initial call, the reason for the encounter, the surrounding environment, the person's demeanor, and more—all of which must be assessed in a split second. This insight into the complexities of police work highlights the importance of experience and quick thinking.
Another highlight of the book is the chapter where the author explains how he "criminally profiles" a possible suspect. While police officers are often accused of being racist, homophobic, or Islamophobic, this chapter offers insight into the cop's thought process and the necessity of profiling, which is based on years of street experience. The author provides a detailed explanation of how profiling is used as a tool to identify suspects, showing that it's rooted in practical experience rather than bias.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book because it offers a raw and candid glimpse into the mind of a police officer. shedding light on the emotional and moral complexities of the job. The author's ability to navigate difficult situations was both eye-opening and thought-provoking. The honesty and depth of these stories made the book incredibly engaging and informative. I found nothing to dislike about it, and I didn't notice any grammatical errors. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
I would recommend this book to readers who are interested in a deeply honest and unflinching look at the realities of police work in a high-crime city. This book is ideal for those who want to understand the emotional and moral challenges faced by officers, as well as the complexities of criminal justice. However, due to its graphic content, including detailed accounts of rape, violence, and drug-related issues, I advise readers to exercise discretion. The book is not for the faint-hearted and is best suited for those who can handle intense and disturbing subject matter.
******
Chicago Crime Story
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Chicago Crime Story by Frank Goff offers a raw and brutally honest view of life as a police officer in Chicago. The author takes readers into the harsh realities of his job, revealing the challenges of fighting crime in a city plagued by violence while also striving to maintain a sense of humanity.
Goff begins his book by warning readers that if they can't handle the harsh realities of human cruelty, they should reconsider reading it. I agree with his caution because the book, with its 42 chapters, reveals uncomfortable truths through one story after another. It highlights the immense emotional resilience required by the police, from interviewing rape victims to going undercover in criminal gangs. The job demands sharp instincts to identify criminals that others might miss, quick decision-making in high-pressure situations, and sometimes handling tasks they're not trained for, like delivering a baby—all while risking their own lives. But the dangers aren't just physical; police also have to navigate corruption within their own ranks, legal challenges, and the flaws of the justice system. On the flip side, the book also sheds light on the compassionate side of policing—rescuing children from abusive homes, de-escalating situations with unstable individuals, ensuring the elderly receive proper care, and inspiring the next generation to join the force.
One of the book's greatest strengths is the author's raw and candid portrayal of his job in the Chicago Police Department. For example, his interview with a rape victim is so detailed and unfiltered that it made me flinch and pause in disgust. It's hard to imagine how he managed to sit through that interview, but his honesty and willingness to share these difficult experiences add depth and authenticity to the book.
Another positive aspect of the book is how the author illustrates the critical judgment needed to determine when to use deadly force. He compares two seemingly similar situations in back-to-back chapters: in both cases, the individuals had deadly weapons, but one was a criminal, while the other was an innocent civilian set up to look like a criminal. The author explains that a cop's decision to use deadly force involves considering numerous factors, such as the initial call, the reason for the encounter, the surrounding environment, the person's demeanor, and more—all of which must be assessed in a split second. This insight into the complexities of police work highlights the importance of experience and quick thinking.
Another highlight of the book is the chapter where the author explains how he "criminally profiles" a possible suspect. While police officers are often accused of being racist, homophobic, or Islamophobic, this chapter offers insight into the cop's thought process and the necessity of profiling, which is based on years of street experience. The author provides a detailed explanation of how profiling is used as a tool to identify suspects, showing that it's rooted in practical experience rather than bias.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book because it offers a raw and candid glimpse into the mind of a police officer. shedding light on the emotional and moral complexities of the job. The author's ability to navigate difficult situations was both eye-opening and thought-provoking. The honesty and depth of these stories made the book incredibly engaging and informative. I found nothing to dislike about it, and I didn't notice any grammatical errors. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
I would recommend this book to readers who are interested in a deeply honest and unflinching look at the realities of police work in a high-crime city. This book is ideal for those who want to understand the emotional and moral challenges faced by officers, as well as the complexities of criminal justice. However, due to its graphic content, including detailed accounts of rape, violence, and drug-related issues, I advise readers to exercise discretion. The book is not for the faint-hearted and is best suited for those who can handle intense and disturbing subject matter.
******
Chicago Crime Story
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Why Paul by S. R. Ely
