Being in a Gang

Becoming part of a gang happens—but how does it feel when it happens to you?

Being part of a gang is a dangerous and life-changing experience that happens to thousands of young people every year. Discover what it is like to be a gang member through the heartfelt stories of survivors. Learn how it “happened to them,” read their journeys to freedom, and find out more about what causes young people to join gangs in this open, sensitive, and informative exploration.

Sometimes, painful experiences happen. It Happened to Me explores painful life crises that affect many young people through poignant diary entries from composite teens who have experienced these situations, supported by informational text. Every year, more and more young people face life-changing situations, from drug and alcohol abuse to eating disorders, family breakups, and homelessness. Being young has never been more challenging. Using a unique in-their-own words approach, this series will strike a chord with many young people who are struggling with complex issues, and help those around them better understand how and why it has happened to them.