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Behind These Doors

AuthorAlex South

NarratorSofia Zervudachi

Duration12h 18m

CategoriesBiography and Autobiography, Adult Non-Fiction

PublisherHodder & Stoughton

VersionUnabridged

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A powerful and affecting look at life in prison Behind These Doors is a provocative, insightful and illuminating interrogation of what it is to live and to work in the UK's most infamous prisons. The individuals Alex introduces us to are, for the most part, living on the margins of society and the impact of the cycles of violence that so often accompany those lives is clear to see. Alex takes us by the hand, behind the gates and through security into prison cells, to the shared kitchens, the prison library, down the corridors and into the 'seg' (segregation unit); we will meet men who will surprise and shock us in equal measure, as well as prison officers who struggle to contain the challenges the job presents. This is a no-holds-barred depiction of life in prison and its many devastating and astonishing, and sometimes inspiring, consequences. As a woman in this environment, her perspective feels especially urgent.

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Jean 1 Nov 2024

Heartbreaking but excellent read

This was an excellent book. A real insight into prison life for both prison officers & prisoners. Truly heartbreaking in parts. It is no wonder that crime rates are climbing despite the amazing work being done by prison officers. The meeting between the author & the prison minister I found particularly frustrating/ annoying & saddening yet not surprising- as in so many areas, the government have no understanding of what is going on in ‘real life’.
Alex how you stuck it for so long I don’t know but you did so much good. Good prison officers like good police officers need nurturing or how will we keep them?
Thank you for all your efforts & sorry they are not being recognised by the right people.

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Julie 15 Aug 2024

Powerful, well written, heartbreaking

I really enjoyed this book and It really opened up my eyes as to what goes on in prisons. I’m utterly disgusted that the conditions are so bad and that the staff aren’t given the training and support that they so desperately need. I honestly hope that this book sparks a change for the better.
Alex, my heart goes out to you for all that you have had to endure.

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