The Mucker by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Fiction

Set against the gritty backdrop of Chicago's West Side, the story follows Billy Byrne, a young boy immersed in a world of streetwise characters. He learns the harsh realities of life from a gang of older delinquents who gather in an alley, engaging in petty crime and drinking. With a mix of admiration and fear, Billy navigates this environment, gaining insights into survival and morality. His early experiences shape his understanding of society, as he interacts with both the local bartenders and law enforcement, highlighting the complexities of urban life.