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The Unusual Suspect

The Remarkable True Story of a Modern-Day Robin Hood
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( 555 ratings, 66 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Unusual Suspect by Ben Machell is a fascinating true crime narrative delving into the life of Stephen Jackley, a young British student who turns to bank robbery driven by a unique blend of ideology and desperation. As his heists grow ever more audacious, the book intricately explores his motivations and the sequence of events that eventually lead to his unraveling. It's an enthralling tale that combines elements of thriller and psychological exploration.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy intriguing true crime stories with a personal touch. It delves into the life of an unlikely criminal, exploring themes of desperation, ingenuity, and the unexpected paths life can take. It's a compelling read for those fascinated by the complexities of human behaviour and the fine line between right and wrong.

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The Unusual Suspect

The remarkable true story of a modern-day Robin Hood, from Times feature writer Ben Machell.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

It is 2007, a time of recession and impending climate crisis, and one young man decides to change the world.

This is the story of Stephen Jackley, a British geography student with Asperger's Syndrome. Aged just twenty-one, obsessed with the idea of Robin Hood, and with no prior experience, he resolved to become a bank robber. He would steal from the rich and give to the poor.

And he did. Bank notes mysteriously found their way into the hands of the homeless. The police had no idea who was responsible. Until Jackley's ambition got the better of him.

The Unusual Suspect by Ben Machell is a compelling narrative of an extraordinary act of rebellion.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Unusual Suspect by Ben Machell is praised for its compelling narrative and meticulous research, blending aspects of a psychological thriller with true crime. Readers are captivated by the story of Stephen Jackley, a "Robin Hood" figure with Asperger's, whose misguided efforts to make a difference unravel with dramatic consequences. The book is commended for its insightful exploration of Jackley's motivations and its ability to evoke both sympathy and intrigue, raising important questions about guilt, idealism, and responsibility.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781786897992

Publisher: Canongate Books

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 06 January 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Canongate Books

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 19.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 215g

Pages: 320

About the Author

Ben Machell is a feature writer for The Times and The Times Magazine and a contributor to publications including VICE, ES Magazine and Esquire. He has been shortlisted for Feature Writer of the Year at the British Press Awards. Ben has full and exclusive access to Stephen and his surviving diaries, as well as access to law enforcement and the key characters involved in Jackley's story on both sides of the Atlantic.

@ben_machell

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