You Can't Win by Jack Black is a seminal, raw autobiography of a 20th-century hobo and professional safecracker, detailing his life of crime, addiction, and prison, ultimately arguing that a life outside the law is futile. Black offers a 'virtual instruction manual' on the technical aspects of the thief's trade, including casing targets and the social networks of the criminal fringe. A 'lost classic' of American literature that chronicles the author's adventures as a burglar, this gripping memoir recounts Black's adventures in the hobo underworld-from freight-hopping across the United States and Canada to his eventual descent into opium addiction and brutal prison stints. This work remains a cornerstone of true crime and hobo literature, the memoir offers a candid, firsthand look at the American underworld and inspired the Beat Generation.
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $20. ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.