“Every generation seems to succumb to fears about the generations that follow. Such moral panics about “the kids today” appear particularly misplaced in the context of a society in transition from a troubled past like Northern Ireland. In this insightful and rigorously evidenced analysis, Gordon argues instead in favour of listening to the voices of young people themselves as they represent our best hope for a brighter future.” (Professor Shadd Maruna, Professor of Criminology, University of Manchester, UK)

“Children, Young People and the Press in a Transitioning Society is exemplary critical criminology: an original interdisciplinary study of young people and the print media in Northern Ireland under transition. This multifaceted empirical investigation shows how the press has targeted and demonised ‘deviant’ youth, and to what effect. Gordon’s work is thoughtfully structured, clear and lively in expression, and forceful in argument: a rich asset for students of youth, media, law and society.” (Professor Scott Poynting, Adjunct Professor, Western Sydney University and Queensland University of Technology, Australia)

“Conflict takes away childhoods and its legacy into the peace can destroy children’s future. This expertly argued book draws on detailed research to address how children are represented in the print media in transitional societies and how these representations contribute to the problems youth are seen as presenting. It is cogently argued, very well written and erudite in its coverage. It is a wonderful addition to youth studies and transitional justice.” (Professor John D. Brewer HDSocSci, MRIA, FRSE, FAcSS, FRSA, Professor of Post-Conflict Studies, Senator George J Mitchell Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice, Queen’s University Belfast, Northern Ireland)

“This book offers a valuable contribution to criminological literature, in particular the growing body of empirically-informed critical youth justice scholarship. Gordon examines an issue of international significance in an incisive, cogent and articulate manner. A must-read for students and professionals with an interest in media influence upon constructing understandings of youth offending.” (Professor Stephen Case, Professor of Criminology, Loughborough University, UK)