The fifth edition of Class, Race, Gender, and Crime is, as in previous editions, a well-articulated discussion of the structural inequalities found throughout American society and reinforced through criminal justice system practices. However, this edition in particular is a timely addition to discussions of inequities within our society. The authors shine a harsh light on the nature, origin, and malignancy of long-standing and entrenched disparities that continue to marginalize, disadvantage, and disenfranchise the most vulnerable of American citizens. In doing so, the authors call immediate attention to the inherent and often untapped potential of the criminal justice system to embody and perpetuate the ideals of justice and equality. -- Jay P. Kennedy, Assistant Professor, School of Criminal Justice, Michigan State University Barak, Leighton, and Cotton give us a much-needed lesson about the actual realities of social control in the United Statesmasterfully delineating the simultaneous interactions of historical, legal, economic, social, political, and ideological forces defining, shaping, and governing criminal justice policy, enforcement, and discourse over time. The authors skillfully reveal the troubling realities of justice in America, with an astute view of those who live in the margins of societyoppressed and silencedskewed or untold stories that need to be exposed. In todays highly charged political atmosphere, Class, Race, Gender, and Crime provides readers a first-class education! -- Martin Guevara Urbina, Sul Ross State University
