"Hoods: The Beginning" was an overall okay story. It was descriptive where it needed to be and sometimes where it didn't need to be. The characters were believable and the overall story was a bit mediocre but entertaining.

I enjoyed this book. Mainly, I would love to see it as a graphic novel. The illustration on the front cover is what intrigued me to read the book, because it was exciting to see ethnically diverse heroes. A fully illustrated book would attract loyal and more readers. Bobby's detailed action sequences would especially benefit with illustrations.

Other than that, I enjoyed the premise and plot of this book. California is rampant with gangs and they are actually scarier to me than superhero villains in comic books. Also, it's a relative and real topic, and I appreciate the detail and knowledge the author presented. It definitely hooks readers into the series and causes anticipation for the next issue, as gangs are an intricate and never-ending problem. There are always adult mob villains in comics, but that seems so far-fetched and unattainable, whereas this depiction of young gang members is a wake-up call.

I enjoyed the tense and ominous scenes and descriptions of the gang's hideouts and fights, whereas the sections of the Hoods characters were a bit drawn out and redundant. Weaver and Bobby are cool characters with worthy abilities, but Cami and (Eddie?) need to be drawn out more. Cami especially seems one-dimensional and forgettable. Further, I'd like to see more self-confidence and camaraderie among the group members, so far they seem distant and divisive, especially the two girls.

I look forward to more stories about this group and I'm sure the series will do well.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.