Also, check out Show Me a Hero[0] or the HBO miniseries based on it, which is excellent and informative while doing a better job than any book I've read at evoking empathy with people trying to find a better place to live. Although, I'm not sure if it's unfair to the existing homeowners, or if they deserve their portrayal.

[0]: http://www.amazon.com/Show-Me-Hero-Lisa-Belkin/dp/0316088641