Book excerpt: This is an essential handbook for youth workers, teachers, social workers and youth justice practitioners working with young people to raise awareness about the risks and realities of gangs and gang-related crime. Each activity offers a different learning experience including quizzes, worksheets, games and interactive activities. The book explores peer pressure, loyalty and personal responsibility as well the impact that violent crime can have on individuals, family, community and wider society. It also considers the ethical and moral dilemmas of gang life, serious youth violence and crime and the potential consequences of gang membership and carrying a weapon. Written by a renowned youth worker and trainer, this essential book helps young people to separate myth from fact, build assertiveness and develop the skills to make safe choices.