The boy and his gang

by Joseph Adams Puffer

"The Boy and His Gang" by Joseph Adams Puffer is an exploration of boys' gang life written in the early 20th century. This work is based on observational accounts and stories collected from sixty-six boys who were part of various gangs. The book delves into the significance and psychology of boys' groups, offering insight into their social structures, activities, and human instincts during the critical gang age of ten to sixteen. At the start of the book, the author sets the stage by discussing the inherent disconnection adults have from their own boyhood experiences and the impact of this gap on understanding boys today. Puffer seeks to bridge this divide, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and appreciating the gang instinct as a natural and vital part of boys' lives. He highlights that boys form gangs not just for mischief, but as a means of self-expression, social training, and bonding. The opening chapters present a framework for viewing boyhood through the lens of social organization, revealing the coveted camaraderie, hierarchical structures, and instincts that govern boys' interactions within their gangs.