The Parkhurst Years

by Bobby Cummines
The Parkhurst Years cover
Good Books rating 3.87
Biography and Memoir
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Paperback • £14.99
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  • ID: 2862
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781473550674
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2017-05-04
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Bobby Cummines' gripping memoir takes readers into the brutal world of Parkhurst Prison, Britain's Alcatraz, where he served time as a category-A prisoner. At just 28, he found himself among the most dangerous criminals of the era, including the Krays, the Yorkshire Ripper, and IRA members. The book offers a raw and unflinching look at the violent regime, vindictive guards, and the constant threat of riots that defined life inside these walls. Cummines' story is one of survival and defiance, as he recounts the moments that tested his resolve and the decisions that shaped his time behind bars. /n/n Published in 2019, this memoir is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of extreme adversity. It provides a unique perspective on the criminal underworld and the justice system, offering insights that go beyond the typical prison narrative. Cummines' vivid descriptions and candid reflections make this a compelling read for anyone interested in true crime and the darker side of society.

Reviews
Kobo · 2025-10-16
informative 4.00

The book receives positive feedback for its engaging and informative content, providing a unique perspective on prison life. It is praised for its ability to keep readers interested and informed.

This memoir has been well-received for its engaging and informative content. Readers appreciate the unique perspective it offers on prison life, particularly in Parkhurst Prison. The book's ability to keep readers interested and informed about the harsh realities of incarceration is highly praised. While some readers might find the content graphic, the overall consensus is that it is a valuable and compelling read. The author's experiences and the way they are presented make this book a standout in the genre of prison memoirs.

Quick quotes

    The Parkhurst Years offers a raw and unfiltered look at life in one of Britain's most notorious prisons.

    Bobby Cummines was only 28 when he passed through the grim gates of Parkhurst, Britain's Alcatraz, as a category-A prisoner with a host of crimes to his name.

    It's the story of Britain's most hellish prison, from one of its hardest inmates.

Apple Books · 2025-10-16
outstanding 4.10

The book is described as a classic and outstanding read, highlighting its compelling narrative and the author's unique experiences. It stands out as a memorable and impactful memoir.

Readers have praised this book as a classic and outstanding read, highlighting its compelling narrative and the author's unique experiences. They found the book to be both engaging and memorable, with a strong impact that stays with the reader long after finishing it. The author's firsthand account of life in Parkhurst Prison offers a rare and fascinating glimpse into a world that few have experienced. The book's ability to captivate and inform makes it a standout choice for those interested in true crime and prison memoirs.

Quick quotes

    Parkhurst totally awesome.

    Classic and outstanding read.

    More Books by Bobby Cummines.

Goodreads · 2017-05-04
raw 3.50

The author's honesty about his criminal past is refreshing, and the book offers a raw and unfiltered look at life in one of Britain's most notorious prisons. The narrative is gripping and provides a unique perspective on the criminal underworld.

This book is a stark and unflinching account of the author's time in Parkhurst Prison. They appreciate the raw honesty with which the author discusses his past crimes and the harsh realities of prison life. The book doesn't shy away from the brutal truths of incarceration, making it a compelling read for those interested in true crime and memoirs. The author's candidness and the vivid descriptions of life among some of Britain's most notorious criminals make this a standout memoir. However, the book's graphic content may not be suitable for all readers.

Quick quotes

    Cummines pulls no punches, he is very honest about his life of crime, and what he has done and seen.

    No 'I'm a victim of a set-up', he accepts responsibility for his actions.

    The Parkhurst Years offers a raw and unfiltered look at life in one of Britain's most notorious prisons.

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