ROTMAN, Jono. Mongrelism.

(London): Here Press, 2018. First edition. Quarto. 158 pages. A superb study, in the form of a gang handbook, of the Mongrel Mob of Aotearoa New Zealand. Notorious for extreme violence, and they have long been regarded as the nation’s monsters. In layers of apparent contradictions, their icon is the British bulldog wearing a Nazi helmet, while their members are largely indigenous Maori. The Mongrel Mob’s symbols arose as both a goading response to a history of colonial subjugation of Maori, and a proclamation of war against the (white) state. Illustrated throughout with photographic plates, as well as two gatefolds, and three tipped in fold-outs. A fine copy in decorated cloth.