Right from Wrong - by Jacob Dunne Paperback

About the Book

Book Synopsis

In 2011 Jacob Dunne threw a single punch that ended another man's life. Sentenced to prison for manslaughter, he served fourteen months of a custodial sentence. On his release, he found himself homeless, unemployed and struggling to find a sense of purpose. But with the help of others, and with the encouragement of his victim's parents, he managed to get his life back on track.

Right From Wrong follows the course of Jacob's life, beginning on a council estate in Nottingham. Beset by problems at home and at school, Jacob drifted into drug-related gang culture, drinking heavily and fighting for fun before a fateful night changed the course of his life. Unflinching in its account of Jacob's guilt and shame, this book will reveal how Jacob used the experience to turn things around. He has been actively involved with Restorative Justice programmes including the Forgiveness Project, has reconciled with those he has hurt, has earned a first-class degree in Criminology and 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 he might help people to avoid the kind of mistakes he made. In the process he points to the societal reforms needed in order to avoid an endless cycle of criminality and hopelessness.

Right From Wrong is a deeply humane and honest book, and an unflinching look at men's mental health and emotions at a time when our awareness of these things is of crucial importance.

Review Quotes

'Part mea culpa, part love letter to his mother, and part manifesto on how to help children from difficult backgrounds to avoid the lifestyle he led. At its heart is the theme of restorative justice.' Guardian

'Engaging... Dunne argues cogently, coherently and from experience that to have choices in life you also have to have chances.' Observer, Book of the Day

'A split second becomes a defining moment for two families and the end of a man's life. A much-needed burst of light in the dark meadow of time.' Lemn Sissay

'A moving and unflinching account of an extraordinary journey. Jacob's astonishing bravery in looking inwards, as well as out towards society and its criminal justice system, is so admirable and beautifully done. It contains that rare thing in story about tragedy - genuine hope.' James Graham

'A thoughtful and challenging read, full of the hard-earned wisdom of someone who has experienced the sharp end of the penal system. Unflinching in its ownership of wrongdoing, full to the brim of gratitude for those who gave him a second chance, this is not just a heartfelt memoir, but an important comment on punishment and rehabilitation, and a broken system that clearly needs overhauling.' Julie Hesmondhalgh

'Captivating and insightful... surprisingly full of hope.' Nazir Afzal

'A page-turner that speaks to widespread concerns about youth violence and rehabilitation.'Telegraph

'This powerful and unflinching memoir is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand why hurt people hurt people. A must-read for anyone working in the criminal justice system.' Marina Cantacuzino

Reviews for James Graham's Punch...

★★★★★ The Times

★★★★★ What's On Stage

★★★★ Guardian

★★★★ Telegraph

★★★★ Financial Times

★★★★ The Stage

About the Author

Jacob Dunne served fourteen months in prison following his conviction for manslaughter in 2011. He has since developed a relationship with his victim's parents through a Restorative Justice programme, and with their encouragement earned a first-class degree in criminology. He is a community ambassador for Notts Violence Reduction Unit and now spends his time mentoring and advising young people and prisoners on the perils of violence, exploring with them how to turn their lives around. He has delivered TED talks and lectured at Cambridge University. He recently presented a high acclaimed and award-winning podcast about his story called The Punch for BBC Sounds. He has two children.