Right from Wrong: My Story of Guilt and Redemption

Right From Wrong is a stage play by James Graham that follows the life of Jacob Dunne, who threw a single punch that ended another man's life and was sentenced to prison for manslaughter. The play explores Jacob's guilt, shame, and how he used the experience to turn his life around. It is a deeply humane and honest book that reflects the experiences of young working-class men and boys and points to the societal reforms needed to avoid an endless cycle of criminality and hopelessness.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

A major new stage work, Punch, by James Graham, is set to be performed at Nottingham Playhouse from Saturday, May 4, to Saturday, May 25, 2024. The play, which is described as a "much-needed burst of light in the dark meadow of time," has received rave reviews from critics, including Lemn Sissay, who praised it for its "admirable and beautifully done" portrayal of tragedy and genuine hope.

The story revolves around Jacob Dunne, who in 2011 threw a single punch that ended another man's life. Jacob was sentenced to prison for manslaughter and served fourteen months of a custodial sentence. Upon his release, he found himself homeless, unemployed, and struggling to find a sense of purpose. However, with the help of others and the encouragement of his victims' parents, he managed to turn his life around.

Right From Wrong follows the course of Jacob's life, beginning on a council estate in Nottingham. Despite facing numerous problems at home and at school, Jacob drifted into drug-related gang culture, drinking heavily, and fighting for fun. A fateful night changed the course of his life when he was involved in a violent incident that resulted in the death of another person.

The book is unflinching in its account of Jacob's guilt and shame, but it also reveals how Jacob used the experience to turn things around. He has been actively involved with Restorative Justice programs, including the Forgiveness Project, has reconciled with those he has hurt, has earned a first-class degree in Criminology, and has become a husband and father.

Jacob's story is in some ways unique, but it is also reflective of the experiences of young working-class men and boys across the country. By reflecting on his story, he hopes to help people avoid the kind of mistakes he made and to point to the societal reforms needed to break the cycle of criminality and hopelessness.

Right From Wrong is a deeply humane and honest book that provides an unflinching look at men's mental health and emotions at a time when our awareness of these issues is crucial. The play is expected to be a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, and it is sure to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Weight: 168g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008472146