On Their Toes for a Way Out

Growing up in this township where razor wire crowns shop roofs like curly hairdos, a 10-year-old boy learns some simple truths. Teachers are liable to thrash you with a rubber hose if you misbehave. It's hard to sleep at night when you hear gunfire. Be wary when you pass bars where men are drinking.

By Robyn Dixon, Times Staff Writer

November 15, 2005