Local teacher Alvin Delgado’s first novel is a heartfelt tale about youths touched by gang violence. Rich with contemporary language, culturally relevant, Delgado’s story is one every student can relate to. Insightful and thought provoking, “Spirit of the Gang” challenges readers to question their assumptions and leave their comfort zones.

Julio Torres’s life is hell. Three years ago his older brother Alex was killed by gang violence, and ever since he’s been plagued by nightmares and a sagging faith. Every day, Julio struggles to find meaning. School seems pointless; his mother is dying and his father is distant. To make matters worse, the same gang responsible for Alex’s death is claiming his older brother’s pledge as Julio’s, vowing to make him the next member of the “Reapers”.

Then comes a fellowship program called “Crossing Boundaries”, and a girl from another school named Carlie, who boldly pries into Julio’s life, asking questions others don’t. Despite his early misgivings about the program and Carlie, Julio senses a chance to find meaning in everything that’s happened to him – but somehow he must do it before he succumbs to his older brother Alex’s fate.

In his first novel, Delgado shows sensitivity and openness in authentically addressing such a turbulent topic. Drawn from his real-life experiences reaching out to victims of gang violence, “Spirit of the Gang” is more than a good story, it’s real life that could be happening to folks down the street.



Alvin will be reading and signing books this Friday, September 28th, at the Cyber Café from 6-8:00 PM.

This is a great book! I could not put it down, and when I did I was thinking about what was going to happen next. You can really "feel" the characters, it is as if the story is part of your life. Much enjoyed!!!!

This is a great book! I could not put it down, and when I did I was thinking about what was going to happen next. You can really "feel" the characters, it is as if the story is part of your life. Much enjoyed!!!!