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Behind These Doors

Stories of Strength, Suffering and Survival in Prison

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Behind These Doors

By: Alex South
Narrated by: Sofia Zervudachi
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About this listen

A powerful and affecting look at life in prison

The men I have worked with and the staff I've worked alongside over the last ten years in prison have taught me strength, compassion, courage, and fundamentally, the need to talk, the need to share and the need to tell these stories. These are the stories of lives lived, lost and taken, behind walls so high we can pretend they hide another world entirely. But at what cost?

Behind These Doors is a provocative, insightful and illuminating interrogation of what it is to live and to work in the UK's most infamous prisons. The individuals Alex introduces us to are, for the most part, living on the margins of society and the impact of the cycles of violence that so often accompany those lives is clear to see. Alex takes us by the hand, behind the gates and through security into prison cells, to the shared kitchens, the prison library, down the corridors and into the 'seg' (segregation unit); we will meet men who will surprise and shock us in equal measure, as well as prison officers who struggle to contain the challenges the job presents.

This is a no-holds-barred depiction of life in prison and its many devastating and astonishing, and sometimes inspiring, consequences. As a woman in this environment, her perspective feels especially urgent.

©2023 Alex South (P)2023 Hodder & Stoughton Limited
Social Sciences True Crime Inspiring Thought-Provoking
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Critic reviews

'This beautiful book really resonated for me as a true, compassionate and honest account of what it is to work in our prisons; and the massive political challenges that go with incarceration.' Dr. Gwen Adshead, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Devil You Know
'This is a beautifully written account about hope and optimism, of humanity, realism, resilience and the complexity of people - some of whom wear a uniform and others who don't. Oh and it's also an account that's personal, warm and inspiring and so perhaps you'll be surprised when I tell you it's a book about prison and the people who live and work there. I'm just sorry that not all Prison Officers are like Alex South.' Professor David Wilson
'I was completely gripped whilst reading it - it's such a powerful memoir and one that shines a light into a world most of the public rarely see, but need a greater understanding of if the system is to change for the better. A fascinating and heart-breaking insight into those who work in the prison system as well as those incarcerated within it.' Nikki Smith, author of The Beach Party

What listeners say about Behind These Doors

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Brilliant

Heart wrenching, intelligent, thoughtful, amazing book. Alex South is brave and strong and I hope her book helps people

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A good female perspective

The narration was good, editing a little weird. A good look from a females perspective at a largely male world

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A must-read for anyone interested in prison life

I’ve enjoyed a few books about prisons, but this takes it to another level. Incredible insight into the work of prison officers, with no self-pity, and with genuine compassion for prisoners.

This should be obligatory reading for every politician, to make them appreciate the deep-rooted flaws of our penal system and how it only serves to fuel despair and further crime.

The book is also excellently written; it’s hard imagine a braver or more talented person. Great narration too.

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Excellent

The book was excellent. It’s something the world needs to be aware of. Although harrowing at time it all needs to be said and I passionately hope that more results from the telling. More support is needed for Officers in Prison.
The book was read wonderfully with passion.

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An eye opener

What a great listen. Alex takes you through her journey of her career in the prison service and details the contrast of highs and lows. I've completely changed my mindset on prison life, day to day challenges, fear, routines and absolute opportunism by the residents. You'll laugh, be shocked and be inspired by her determination to make a difference. I just loved it. Thank you to Alex and all prison workers, you're special folk and your undoubted sacrifices are appreciated...by me at least. I hope to never meet any of you at your work.

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Brilliant look inside a broken system

I loved Alex's writing and her ability to tell a story. A great book looking inside the UK prison system

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So interesting

This was recommended to me and I am so pleased that I listened as I have learned so much.

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A Brilliant Book, Brilliantly Narated

There are some very rare books that you just know you're going to listen to a second time. This is one. Riveting, harrowing, desolate, and hopeful. The narration has a way of drawing you in just close enough for you to let your guard down, only for events to flip and hit you full square in solar plexus. But this is no cheap device it is just another day on shift in one of the toughest jobs imaginable.

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Very well written and really interesting real life account of the world most of us never experience ., thank god!

Really worth listening to and really beautifully read with real
Life compassion and the truth! Don’t ignore it needs addressing as our society is so broken!

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Compelling

This was an excellent listen. Hard to hear in places but thought provoking, sad and interesting in equal measure. Emotional and sensitively articulated but honest.

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