Cut Short: Why we're failing our youth - and how to fix it

Cut Short is a powerful book that explores the lives of a cast of characters at the sharp end of the UK's serious youth violence epidemic. It is a gripping, urgent, sympathetic, and often painful portrait of a society fracturing along lines of race, class, and postcode. It is a blueprint for positive change and a book that we desperately need.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

This powerful and eye-opening book explores the devastating impact of serious youth violence on communities across the UK. Through the compelling stories of a diverse cast of characters, the book sheds light on the complex factors contributing to this epidemic, including social media, gentrification, and criminal justice.

The author, Annie Mac Lays down a transformative path to peace, provides a nuanced and empathetic understanding of the issues at hand, and offers a blueprint for positive change. The book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the urgent need to address this tragedy and work towards a safer and more inclusive society.

One of the standout features of Cut Short is its devastating and beautifully-drawn tribute to the young boys that the media often turns into statistics of knife crime. The book makes you stop and think about the impact of violence on these young lives and the urgent need for change.

Another notable aspect of the book is its ability to give a voice to the voiceless. It strongly advocates for the need to address the root causes of youth violence, including poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities. The book highlights the devastating consequences of social exclusion and the school-to-prison pipeline, which trap young people in a cycle of violence and incarceration.

Cut Short is also a powerful indictment of the media's portrayal of young people and knife crime. The book challenges the stereotypes and narratives that perpetuate violence and undermine efforts to address the issue. It shows how media coverage can contribute to fear and prejudice, and how it can hinder efforts to build trust and understanding between communities.

The book is filled with passionate and impassioned arguments, backed by the latest research and expert insights. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of the young people featured in the book, as well as the tireless work of community leaders and activists who are fighting to make a difference.

In conclusion, Cut Short is a gripping, urgent, sympathetic, and often painful portrait of a society fracturing along lines of race, class, and postcode. It is a blueprint for positive change, and a book we desperately need. By shedding light on the devastating impact of serious youth violence and offering a roadmap for change, this book provides a powerful voice to the voiceless and a call to action for all of us.

Weight: 255g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241988701