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A Bit of a Stretch

The Diaries of a Prisoner
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( 11,553 ratings, 972 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
A Bit of a Stretch by Chris Atkins is a gripping and darkly humorous account of the author's time spent in one of Britain's most notorious prisons. Through a candid and insightful lens, Atkins explores the daily challenges and unexpected humanity within the prison walls, shedding light on the inefficiencies and absurdities of the penal system. The narrative provides an eye-opening glimpse into the realities of life behind bars.
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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?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by first-hand accounts of the British prison system, delivered with sharp wit and humour. The author, a journalist, offers an insightful and often darkly funny narrative of his time inside, blending truth with grim reality in a way that keeps you turning the pages. This may appeal to anyone interested in an unconventional perspective within the Crime & Thriller category.

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A Bit of a Stretch

A shocking and darkly funny account of the reality of Britain's prisons.

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

'Shocking, scathing, entertaining.' - Guardian

'Incredibly compelling.' - The Times

'Heart-breaking.' - Sunday Times

Where can a tin of tuna buy you clean clothes? Where is it easier to get 'spice' than paracetamol? Where does self-harm barely raise an eyebrow?

Welcome to Her Majesty's Prison Service. Like most people, documentary-maker Chris Atkins didn't spend much time thinking about prisons. But after becoming embroiled in a dodgy scheme to fund his latest film, he was sent down for five years. His new home would be HMP Wandsworth, one of the largest and most dysfunctional prisons in Europe.

With a cast of characters ranging from wily drug dealers to senior officials bent on endless reform, this powerful memoir uncovers the horrifying reality behind the locked gates. Filled with dark humour and shocking stories, A Bit of a Stretch reveals why our creaking prison system is sorely costing us all - and why you should care.

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?

A Bit of a Stretch by Chris Atkins is lauded for its shocking, candid, and darkly humorous portrayal of Britain's prison system. Reviewers appreciate Atkins' engaging style, highlighting how he intertwines humour with a stark depiction of the dysfunction and absurdity within the incarceration system. It's described as both heartbreaking and hilariously poignant, offering a compelling and thought-provoking insight into the failings of the penal system.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781838950170

Publisher: Atlantic Books

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 01 October 2020

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Atlantic Books

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 25.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 303g

Pages: 352

About the Author

Chris Atkins is a BAFTA-nominated filmmaker. His documentaries Taking Liberties and Starsuckers were critically acclaimed and made front-page news. He has also worked extensively with Dispatches for Channel 4 and BBC Panorama. Following his release from prison, he is now back in North London, filming documentaries and writing.

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