Sketches

<p>Bill Lawlor grew up in a blue-collar neighborhood in a large city. In addition to his parents he was raised under the strong but loving rule of Catholic nuns and priests. Gangs were an ever-present force in his neighborhood. He quickly learned how to navigate his way through the challenges that accompanied living in a tightly-knit group of families and friends who put a great deal of importance on the idea of loyalty to your own kind.</p><p>During his youth Bill knew and observed many people young and old in their daily lives. Many of them made a strong impression on him. Some were model citizens; others were cruel selfish individuals. All played a role in the development of the tales in his book.</p>