A Bit of a Stretch

by Chris Atkins
A Bit of a Stretch cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Biography and Memoir
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 2854
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781838950163
  • Publisher: Atlantic Books
  • Published: 2020-02-06
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Documentary-maker Chris Atkins never expected to find himself behind bars, but after a run-in with the law, he spent five years in HMP Wandsworth. His powerful memoir, 'A Bit of a Stretch,' offers a raw and unflinching look at the prison system, filled with dark humor and horrifying stories. From the absurdities of prison life to the systemic failures that plague the institution, Atkins's account is both entertaining and heartbreaking. The book not only exposes the harsh conditions and bizarre behaviors within the prison walls but also highlights the broader implications for society. It's a compelling read that will make you question what you thought you knew about the justice system.

Reviews
ICLR · 2020-07-17
insightful 4.00

The book is recommended for anyone interested in the criminal justice system or prison life. It offers a unique and insightful perspective on the subject.

The reviewer recommends this book to anyone with an interest in the criminal justice system or prisons. They highlight the unique and insightful perspective it offers, making it a valuable read for both specialists and general readers. The book is praised for its ability to shed light on the often overlooked aspects of prison life, providing a deeper understanding of the system. The reviewer found the book to be both informative and engaging, making it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the subject matter.

Quick quotes

    I would recommend this book to anyone who has any interest in the criminal justice system, prisons, or even the general reader.

    A unique and insightful perspective on the subject.

    The book is praised for its ability to shed light on the often overlooked aspects of prison life.

The Guardian · 2020-02-05
harrowing 4.00

The book provides a shocking and scathing account of life in prison, blending entertainment with a stark critique of the system. The narrative is both darkly humorous and deeply unsettling.

This memoir doesn't hold back, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the author's time behind bars. The reviewer highlights how the book balances dark humor with a critical examination of the prison system, making it both engaging and thought-provoking. It's a powerful read that leaves a lasting impression, blending the surreal with the horrifying in a way that's hard to forget.

Quick quotes

    A shocking, scathing, entertaining account.

    The narrative is both darkly funny and deeply unsettling.

    A surreal, darkly funny, at times horrifying but always humane account of what it's like to be locked up.

Roaring Bookworm · 2019-12-23
compelling 4.50

The author's narrative is impressive and unflinching, providing a comprehensive journey through his prison experience. The honesty and detail make it a compelling read.

The reviewer praises the author's honesty and the detailed account of his prison journey. They appreciate how the author doesn't spare himself, making the narrative both compelling and authentic. This book is a must-read for those interested in the raw and unvarnished truth of prison life. The reviewer found the book to be incredibly compelling, highlighting the author's ability to narrate his experiences with candor and depth.

Quick quotes

    Atkins is an impressive narrator: he doesn't spare himself one bit.

    We get to see his entire prison journey from start to finish.

    An incredibly compelling read.

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