Capital punishment is one of the most divisive and emotional debates in the United States today.

Both sides claim they are literally fighting for life—either the life of the condemned criminal or the lives of potential victims; and both sides claim to be upholding practices essential for a healthy society.

This book presents an engaging and balanced account from a variety of perspectives on this most important issue: trends and statistics are here, but also the personal stories of convicts, victims, law officials, and activists.

This book makes for fascinating, challenging, and informative reading.