Dive into the complex world of urban poverty and social mobility with this essential sociology book. Ranita Ray critically examines how focusing on “risk behaviors” overlooks the resilience of marginalized American youth. Through intimate narratives of hunger, homelessness, and the daily grind, the book reveals their perseverance in pursuing education and work. It exposes how societal strategies can reinforce class and race divides, diverting vital resources. A must-read for sociology and social science students, policymakers, and anyone wanting to understand the true dynamics of poverty and youth development.