This is a serious and knotty book. but it can be beautiful. Harden draws movingly on autobiographical material. Ultimately, this is a well-informed attack on an American style of justice that relies on notions of sin and punishment. Harden acknowledges that retribution feels good - we are human. She wants everyone to be accountable for their actions, whatever their genetics. But she calls for rational measures aimed at reducing offending, and for restorative justice over vengeance. For Norway, not Texas.

For compassion, not cruelty. A darkly glittering book.