Cold New World

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This groundbreaking work of social journalism highlights a population often overlooked. William Finnegan observes that while the national economy grows, the prospects for most Americans are dimming, leading to a new, harsher class structure. The focus is on families struggling to adapt, particularly their teenagers and young adults, as they navigate this challenging environment. Finnegan immerses himself in the lives of families across four American communities, capturing poignant portraits: a fifteen-year-old drug dealer in New Haven, a Texas town transformed by crack, Mexican American teens in Washington State caught between cultures and gang identities, and jobless young white supremacists in a declining L.A. suburb. This exploration of race, class, and social change maintains a deep respect for the humanity of its subjects. The young individuals portrayed are complex and multifaceted, evoking both sympathy and frustration. Finnegan's work transcends mere reportage, revealing the economic trends and political decisions that have contributed to a society marked by growing inequality and cultural alienation. Important and compassionate, this book offers a powerful glimpse into a present that foreshadows our future.