Hail to the Chief

This police procedural finds the boys of the 87th Precinct investigating the deaths of a group of young people and a baby found shot and dumped at a construction site. In this book, McBain switches off between the crime investigation and the thoughts of "The Chief," who turns out to be a teenage gang leader absolutely convinced that he must kill off his enemies to bring peace to his turf. The juxtaposition of the alternate realities is very well done. In addition, McBain's characterization of the cops is particularly well-drawn and compassionate in this book. Reviewer: Liz Clare, co-author of the historical novel "To the Ends of the Earth: The Last Journey of Lewis and Clark"

Gang warfare amongst teanage gangs. Interspaced with stages of the investigation of 6 gang murders (plus a whole lot more murders by the end of the book) are excerpts of the confession of gang president Randall Nesbitt (who instigated all of the murders) and his justifications that he was trying to bring peace to the neighbourhood. Brilliant as a gang warfare novel and as an allegory of the Vietnam war.

This book is very close to my heart because it was the first 87th Precint novel that i have read. And only from the first few pages I was absolutely hooked and laughing my self silly. Mcbain like in his other 87th Precint Novel 'SEE THEM DIE' tackles uncompromisingly the gang scene. The many colorful and gritty characters in this book keep us spellbinded. From the hookers to the dope fiends, from the gangsters who promise to reek havoc to the detectives who swear to protect, from all the small aspects of street life to the major issues of love and honour, if you haven't read a Mcbain novel, this one will not dissapoint. It's a feast to wallow in. Just enjoy.