The Sing Sing Files

by Dan Slepian
The Sing Sing Files cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Investigative Journalism
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Paperback • £17.99
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  • ID: 4696
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781250897718
  • Publisher: Celadon Books
  • Published: 2024-09-10
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Dan Slepian, a veteran producer for NBC’s Dateline, embarks on a two-decade journey to uncover the truth behind wrongful convictions. His investigation begins with a tip from a Bronx homicide detective about two men wrongly convicted of a 1990 murder, leading to their exoneration and freedom. This case sets Slepian on a path to challenge the deeply flawed criminal justice system, which resists acknowledging its mistakes. Slepian’s efforts extend beyond the initial case, resulting in the freedom of four other innocent men. His work is deeply personal and collaborative, particularly with Jon-Adrian “JJ” Velazquez, who assists Slepian’s investigations even while incarcerated. The book sheds light on systemic injustices and advocates for accountability, offering a hopeful yet painful look at the impact of wrongful imprisonment.

Reviews
Reading Grrl · Reading Grrl · 2024-09-22
hopeful 4.50

Slepian's book is both painful and full of hope, shining a light on a pervasive injustice. The narrative is compelling and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on the criminal justice system.

Reading Grrl's review of The Sing Sing Files highlights the book's emotional impact and its ability to shed light on a critical issue. The reviewer appreciates Slepian's courage and dedication in bringing these stories to light, noting that the book is both painful and full of hope. The narrative is compelling, offering a unique perspective on the criminal justice system and the fight for justice. The reviewer finds the book thought-provoking and believes it will leave a lasting impression on readers. The audiobook format is particularly praised for its engaging narration, making the stories even more impactful.

Quick quotes

    Slepian's extraordinary book, at once painful and full of hope, shines a light on an injustice whose impact the nation has only begun to ...

    The friendships Slepian maintained with the prisoners and their families over the years was quite touching.

    Fans of real crime shows will love this book.

Goodreads · Multiple Reviewers · 2024-09-10
engrossing 4.25

This book is both fascinating and infuriating, highlighting the fight for justice. The narrative is powerful and emotionally charged, leaving a lasting impact. The author's dedication to the cause is evident and commendable.

The Sing Sing Files is a gripping account that delves into the heart-wrenching stories of six innocent men wrongfully imprisoned. The author, Dan Slepian, masterfully narrates his two-decade-long journey through the criminal justice system, shedding light on the systemic failures that led to these injustices. The book is not just a retelling of events but a call to action, urging readers to reflect on the broader implications of wrongful convictions. Slepian's personal investment in the cases adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth that resonates with the reader. It's a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of fighting for justice.

Quick quotes

    This book is so fascinating and utterly infuriating.

    Dan Slepian, a Dateline reporter, retells his fight to help free six innocent men from ...

    The friendships Slepian maintained with the prisoners and their families over the years was quite touching.

Kirkus Reviews · Kirkus Reviews · 2024-09-10
important 4.75

An excellent addition to the body of work documenting societal injustice. The book is a powerful and necessary read, highlighting the fight for justice and the resilience of the human spirit.

Kirkus Reviews praises The Sing Sing Files as an excellent addition to the body of work documenting societal injustice. The reviewer finds the book powerful and necessary, highlighting Slepian's dedication to the cause and the resilience of the human spirit. The narrative is compelling, offering a unique perspective on the criminal justice system and the fight for justice. The reviewer believes the book will leave a lasting impression on readers and is a must-read for those interested in social justice and criminal reform. The book's emotional depth and authenticity are particularly noted, making it a standout in the genre.

Quick quotes

    An excellent addition to the body of work documenting a pervasive societal injustice.

    Slepian tells their stories with compassion and empathy, keeps it real too, expressing his own outrage, sharing the facts and the result is so ...

    This book is different than any 'wrongful conviction' book I've ever read.

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