It’s a shame that so few books explore Canadian urban themes (especially those unique to Quebec) as well as Black Alley does. This long-anticipated translation of Mauricio Segura’s acclaimed and controversial 1998 novel, Côte-des-Nègres, is a unique window into the immigrant experience, city life, and gang violence. Translated by University of Guelph professor Dawn M. Cornelio, this fearless book retains much of its relevance and narrative impact over a decade after its first appearance.

Segura, a journalist and Montreal resident, is largely known for his astute commentary on immigrant issues. Born in Temuco, Chile, Segura moved to Quebec with his parents as a child, and his account of racial divisions in the Côte-des-Neiges area of Montreal reflects a writer heavily invested in his subject matter. Black Alley paints a gritty portrait of urban life without ornament or apology.

The book lacks sensationalized voyeurism, shallow sentimentality, or any exploitive feeling of “otherness.” Even the relatively unique (but never jarring) second-person narration puts the reader directly inside the experience of the characters.

Marcelo, the son of Chilean refugees, abandons his friendship with Cléo, a Haitian immigrant, to gain the acceptance of those who share his ethnicity. By centering the story on the childhood friendship of Marcelo and Cléo, and connecting each character to the evolution of rival gangs – Latino Power and the Bad Boys, respectively – Segura examines the complexity of urban violence without devolving into frivolous entertainment.

As the novel progresses we become deeply invested in the poignant confrontation between childhood friends who have become divided by race and gang allegiances. There are moments where the dialogue seems forced – perhaps as a result of the translation – but overall Segura is consistent in his realism. What results is a crystal clear and unadorned look at the many intersections of class, race, gender, and generational divide in modern urban Quebec. Black Alley is a distinctly refreshing reading experience.