Erika Gebo is professor of sociology & criminal justice at Suffolk University. She is a co-editor of the book, Looking Beyond Suppression: Community Responses to Gang Violence. Carolyn Boyes-Watson is Professor of sociology & criminal justice and the Director for the Center for Restorative Justice at Suffolk University. She is the author of Crime and Justice: Learning through Cases and co-author of Circle Forward: Building a Restorative School Community.
I can't emphasize enough how much I enjoy using this book when I teach Juvenile Delinquency. I prefer this textbook over all others because I find every aspect of the authors' approach ideal for my class structure and objectives. I especially like the accessibility, readability, and lower cost. As a sociology professor, intersectionality is essential for any discussion of juvenile delinquency and this is the only textbook on youth crime and justice I've found where intersectionality is an organizing feature. The case studies included at the beginning of each chapter provide a catalyst for discussion and allow students to connect concepts and policies to real people. My students absolutely love this textbook. I have only heard positive things from students about this book - they also prefer this textbook over others which cost too much and present so much information that overwhelms and distracts them from the big picture. I highly recommend this textbook to others teaching similar courses. Youth, Crime, and Justice is an exceptionally engaging text that is logically organized, clearly written, and comprehensive. Its interdisciplinary and intersectional approach effectively links current research to both historical context and future policy options. Its rich case-studies are skillfully integrated into its coverage of key concepts and findings, providing an excellent foundation for student learning and class discussion. Youth, Crime, and Justice is an incredible resource for engaging students on every aspect of youth crime and the juvenile justice system. The cases engage students right away and immerse them into reflecting on why youth commit crime and what our society should do about it. Gebo and Boyes-Watson also give students hope by providing information on what works in the juvenile system to build a foundation for moving forward.