Someday, Boy by Sam Ross

A gritty, character-driven portrayal of life in the Chicago slums during the years leading up to the Great Depression. The story centers on Benny Gordon, a brash and ambitious young man who dreams of escaping poverty through quick schemes and personal reinvention.

Benny spends his days with friends like Lefty, engages in a tumultuous relationship with Martha, and trains for a river swim he hopes to win. A stint at a real estate agency introduces him to Laura, a woman from a higher social class, prompting Benny to reevaluate his aspirations. However, as Laura moves on to college and Benny's ventures falter, he finds himself returning to Martha and his old life, still clinging to dreams of a better future.

Paperback, 1954

Goodreads: NA