Into the Night: A Year with the Police

Into the Night is a reflective account of a year as a volunteer police officer in Brixton, exploring the nature of policing, its impact on those who are policed, and our communal life. It is a luminous portrait of South London, the epicentre of Britain's struggle against racist policing, and a textured, compassionate book about cities, loss, and wounded souls.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2024
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

"Into the Night" is a captivating and thought-provoking book that delves into the world of policing, offering a unique and insightful perspective. Written with the verve and immediacy of a novel, the book provides a vivid account of a year spent as a volunteer police officer in South London.

The author, Matt Lloyd-Rose, a former carer, primary school teacher, and education researcher, embarked on this journey to understand the challenges faced by young people in Brixton, the place he lived and taught. What he encountered was far more than he bargained for. Every Friday evening, he donned the uniform and patrolled the streets of South London, racing through it on blue lights, encountering a diverse range of individuals and situations.

Through "Into the Night," the reader is taken on a journey to the heart of society's most complex and controversial institution. The book showcases both the best and worst aspects of ordinary policing, from thrilling moments of macho thrill-seeking to shocking displays of misogyny and discrimination. It paints a vivid portrait of the homeless, the lonely, the sick, and the angry, as well as teenage gang members, confused drunks, violent partners, runaway dogs, and even an illegal hot-dog vendor who refuses to take no for an answer.

What sets "Into the Night" apart is its exploration of the possibility of reframing policing as a caring rather than enforcement role. The author argues that by shifting the focus from punishment to support and assistance, police officers can better serve the communities they are meant to protect. The book also provides a luminous portrait of South London, the epicenter of Britain's struggle against racist policing. It uncovers hidden histories of resistance and abuse, shedding light on the ongoing fight for justice and equality.

"Into the Night" is not only a powerful exploration of policing but also a deeply empathetic and relatable book. The author's acute observations and tender writing style bring the characters and their experiences to life, allowing the reader to connect with them on a personal level. The book's themes of cities, loss, and wounded souls resonate with readers, offering a reflection on the complexities of human relationships and the challenges we face in our modern society.

"Into the Night" is an important and timely book written with empathy and real-life experience. It challenges the conventional narratives of policing and offers a fresh perspective on the role of law enforcement in our society. The book has received widespread praise from authors, activists, and readers alike, and its impact is sure to continue to be felt for years to come.

In conclusion, "Into the Night" is a must-read book for anyone interested in understanding the world of policing, social justice, and human experiences. It is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the challenges and complexities of our modern society, written with empathy, insight, and a deep understanding of the human condition.

Weight: 266g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781035004287