Brass Knuckles: The Story of a Young Gangster who "Turned to the Right"

Speed Austin never meant to get in trouble, but it seems to follow him wherever he goes. Yet, even though he's part of the playground gang of toughs, the boys from St. Leo's are desperate for a shortstop to take the place of Bud Philips-and Speed is the best candidate they can find. Speed jumps at the chance to get away from the fast life, but the gang wants him back, and they're out to show him what happens to members that try to "quit." Will Jack and the other Catholic school boys manage to help save him, or is it too late?

Written in 1930 by a Chicago Priest who served as chaplain at the County Jail and knew the difficulties faced by boys growing up in the big city, this thrilling story is newly illustrated by Erin Bartholomew.


About the Author
O'Brien, Msgr Raymond J.: - Born in Chicago in 1892, Raymond O'Brien studied for the Priesthood at St. Mary's Seminary in Baltimore, MD and was ordained in 1921. He was then appointed teacher and spiritual advisor at the newly established Quigley Preparatory Seminary, where he taught high-school age boys who were considering the priesthood. During these difficult years of Prohibition and Depression, he became intimately familiar with the temptations and discouragement experienced by young men. He dedicated himself to this cause, establishing numerous youth groups at Blessed Sacrament Parish, where he was transferred in 1936, and where he was known never to turn away troubled youths. He also served as auxiliary chaplain at the Bridewell and County Jail. He was honored with the title of Monsignor in 1949 in recognition of his humanitarian work as well as his promulgation of the faith, and he died in October 1963, a most beloved pastor and friend of boys. (bio of Msgr. Raymond J. O'Brien copyright 2016 by St. Augustine Academy Press)