Nothing is more unsettling in this world than a kid with a gun . . .

On the streets of Medellín, Colombia, actions speak louder than words, and the rule of the bandidos is the only law worth listening to.

Like most kids of their age, Shorty and Alberto work for their local cartel. They run cigarettes, offer protection . . . and occasionally assassinate someone. The work is tough, and dangerous, but the boys are commanding respect like they've never known, and the money's pretty good too.

But then one day Alberto disappears. And Shorty realises that he is never coming back. A gangster's life is cheap, and when revenge can be bought for only a few pesos, everyone has their price . . .

The taut story line subtly illustrates the many levels of personal, social, and political costs of the shocking violence created and perpetuated by the largely U.S.-driven international drug trade. . . . The book will interest and educate readers about a world they might know nothing of otherwise. School Library Journal
Readers will feel haunted by Sonny's bleak choices, the brutality, and the heartbreaking conclusion. Booklist

Matt Whyman is the author of several critically-acclaimed novels including THE SAVAGES, as well as the bestselling comic memoir, WALKING WITH SAUSAGE DOGS. Matt is the former agony uncle for Bliss magazine and part of the team on Radio 1's weekly advice show, The Surgery. He lives in West Sussex with his wife and four children. Find out more about Matt at www.mattwhyman.com and on Twitter: @mattwhyman