When journalist David Cohen arrived at Epuni Boys' Home as thirteen year old in the 1970s, far from being part of the residential system offering solutions to the problems of juvenile delinquency, Epuni was becoming part of the problem. This book examines Epuni; its history, its purpose, how it functioned on a day-to-day basis, and the societal context underpinning its ethos.
With input from former residents and staff, Cohen reveals its legacy: the nurturing of little criminals into big criminals, many who have become household names. A sobering and thought provoking social history. [Larger font]
Surprisingly interesting read - very popular. Nelson 002
A difficult and sometimes depressing read, but our discussion went well with personal experiences of the system adding valuable input. Coromandel 001
Interesting - repetitive - worth it though. Can recommend it as a challenging read. Auckland 010
Not an easy book to read, but we are all pleased to have had the opportunity to do so because the subject is very topical with a great deal of publicity. It is good to have social problems put in front of us as it stirs our heads as well as our hearts. Hamilton 034
We thought this was a very important book - the style sometimes is a little awkward but the substance significant. Great discussion. Governor's Bay 001
Those that read the book found it gave an interesting insight into the boys' home. A hard factual read for some. Huntly 001
WELL 046
05-07-2023
We all agreed that it painted a sad and shocking picture of residential care for young people in the 70s and 80s. Some found the style too florid - too much "journalistic" writing. Some would have liked to hear more about his own experience.
AMBER 002
05-07-2023
Nobody enjoyed it, only two finished it. Most felt it was like reading a textbook. However, we had quite an interesting discussion, as we have one member who used to live in Porirua and who worked as a cleaner at a boys' home and later relieved as a 'house-mother' , so her input saved the night.
AUCK 016
05-07-2023
This book provoked a lot of discussion as one of our group had worked in Wellington in child welfare, and also some of the group had been teachers. We were left wondering if things have changed, and if so, were they any better The book was a hard read - but worthwhile to get people thinking about the youth of N.Z.
ASHB 004
05-07-2023
Some of our group had experience working with young people as described in the book. It would seem the situation for the boys was very aptly described. A harrowing episode in recent history.
HAMIL 034
05-07-2023
We liked the design of this book - quality binding and suitable cover photo. Not an easy book to read, but all pleased to have the opportunity to do so, because the subject is very topical. Good to have social problems put in front of us as it stirs our heads as well as our hearts. Very interesting, lively discussion.
GOVER 001
05-07-2023
We thought this was a very important book - style sometimes a little awkward but the substance was significant. Great discussion.
TIMAR 016
05-07-2023
Disappointed - could have been written in a more thorough and interesting way.
NEWP 013
05-07-2023
Only two of the group read the book completely - others started but lost interest, either in the subject matter or lack of engagement in it. However, quite a good discussion followed with plenty of comments from the teachers in the group. One person wished there had been more about the author himself.
WELL 142
05-07-2023
Most members of our group found the subject matter troubling and the writing style unsatisfying. Cohen has provided a good record of a typical institution of the mid to late 20th century, but he has viewed it with the lens of today, and judges it accordingly.
OTAKI 001
05-07-2023
Book was really enjoyed by all who read it. Hugely demanding text, important though to put it in the context of the times. Generated lots of discussion re caring for/treating others, and widened out into health and education.
