Wow. I certainly couldn't do what Dr. brown does, butI'd like to think I've gained some compassion after reading this book. Eye opening and shocking but hopeful too.
Read more

Interesting to see all the different people that go into prison, really nicely written too. Although I sometimes got a bit bored as there isn’t much excitement. (But that’s just my personal opinion, we all like different books) Thank you Dr Amanda Brown x
Read more

This book is described as eye opening and inspirational. I have spent some time working inside male and female prisons so I don't expect to find out much that I haven't come across. I am also already inspired by a doctor choosing to work inside the prisons doing what they can to help those who appear to be beyond help. The author starts with some background and tells us how she came to the prison role then we are straight into her experiences. Through her patients the author tells of conditions in UK prisons today. She is compassion but has the ability to remove herself from the crimes that her patients have committed. In the same way that she never judges her patients she also does not criticise the prison system which is a welcome relief from the continual complaints fired at it from all sides. Actually she highlights some of the amazing people that work in the system which is a joy to read. The writing is straight forward and clearly describes life without dumbing down or sensationalising. A doctor sees everyone from the governor to the lowliest prisoner so it's great that she is having her say. Aside from all the things that she sees she is able to explain about the passion for the environment that many employees have, how it "gets into your bones" and effects the rest of your life. On a personal level I was interested in how the authors value system changes with some parts of her life now seeming to be very trivial. I've experienced this to a lesser degree and it is an odd feeling when you're really not interested in the social chitchat around you, preferring to talk about a violent offender and the conditions in which he is being kept. This is also a reminder that the prison system should not be considered as a single entity - it is made up of many individuals working hard and many more individuals passing through its care, all with different backgrounds and reason for being there. She never lets us forget that even these tough, and sometimes violent, people are human with mothers and fathers (maybe partners and children too). The reader is encouraged to take time to think about the individuals as she sees tiny snapshots of their broken lives. I know many who would not want to read this book but I would encourage anyone to (even if it then gives me a chance to talk more about prisons!!).
Read more

Was recommended this book and did not disappoint Brilliantly written and engaging, with warmth and humility. I read in a couple of days and now looking forward to the next two books.
Read more

Such a great account of life working in prisons. Loved the style of writing and reminder to myself that we are here to care and make a difference regardless of the barriers in our way. Highly recommend this book.
Read more

Described as a Sunday Times Bestseller I expected much more from this book. Very disappointing.
Read more

I didn't expect to enjoy this as much as I did. Very interesting stories told by someone who really cares about her patients, no matter how horrendous their crimes.
Read more

This is the second book I’ve read by this author, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first. Compassionate, real and honest. Wonderful writing that is both moving and insightful. It has given me a lot to think about and ponder. I would definitely recommend this book!
Read more

Dr. Brown brings her experiences and stories to life in a way that you could personally feel the emotions that were talked about.
Read more

Speedy delivery and such a good book ! Highly recommend
Read more

An excellent book. Simply written.
Read more

No tiene una trama. Me ha decepcionado un poco. Me gusta la literatura médica y este no es de mis favoritos.
Read more

The book follows Dr. Amanda Brown after she leaves her GP practice following the 2006 reforms. From there, by chance, after her article was published, she becomes a prison doctor. She tells the story of her experience working in young offenders units, to some of the UK’s most dangerous prisons. There are rare some incredible, and powerful stories told throughout this book. Some completely heartbreaking. One thing that remains totally obvious throughout, is how much Brown genuinely cares about her patients. Each and every one of them. No matter what they have done/been accused of. Her compassion and love to help people are extraordinary! I really enjoyed this book, it was a super fast – eye-opening- read (triggers of drugs, abuse, etc). I admire her strong passion for being there for the offenders no matter what wrongs they have done no matter there crime. She strongly believed in everybody need just one person to care for them to change their lives around. She hopes that everything she had done had some sort of impact on them to make them want to do better in life.
Read more