'A compelling account of how young people navigate the treacherous waters into adulthood, despite rather ineffective social policies. Williamson's unique role for the past 30 years as a researcher, practitioner and policy adviser provides powerful insights into how our society has helped or hindered the young, especially those growing up on the margins of the labour market and of criminality.' Tom Wylie, Director of the National Youth Agency 'Williamson's masterly effort to produce a longitudinal study (a rarity in youth research) is not only standard-setting in its methodology, but also an example of how distant intimacy like this is required in participant observation - thus it is sociology and education at the same time. Williamson does not guess about young people, he knows.' Peter Lauritzen, Head of Department Education and Training, Research, Communication and Youth Policy, Council of Europe, Directorate for Youth and Sport, Strasbourg Williamson's detailed account of the nitty-gritty of the lives of disadvantaged young men teaches more than many books on theory. I hope that he will undertake a study on the Milltown girls. Young Minds Magazine Williamson has written a gem. i think it will last and shine. What stayed with me was the elegant weaving and editing of lives to bring these men alive on the page . Williamson has put in his skill and time to reflect and tell the unfolding truth. Youth & Policy This book is possibly unique. It combines the rigour of social science method with being immensely readable. Planet