I just finished 'Unprecedented : how sex offender laws are impacting our nation.' As my son is currently awaiting sentencing It has been my goal to learn all I can, most times more than I care to know. I sometimes wonder what my son has gotten me into as I become acquainted with ex-offenders, and the people who love them, truly not the 'in' crowd. What I have found are genuine, caring, dedicated people who understand the human frailties and the power of healing. Haralson and Cordeiro understands this from a personal prospective that they openly share with the reader. They give the facts - all of which are backed up by studies and research. It is very informative covering topics from the act itself to the arrest -prison -registry -effective and ineffective treatment, parole -and so many other aspects in the life of an ex-offender. There is no coddling the offender, the offense, or sugar coating the facts. Not only do they discuss the laws but solutions to the hysteria surrounding those laws.For those that advocate abolishment of the entire regristry, the authors will disappoint, still their message is of healing, compassion and understanding. One of the main principles is there is hope for restorative justice in which the authors put their experience into practice through Gods will. I must confess I am not a person of faith but appreciated the messages that border lined a sermon as they were inspirational and apt (and they give you leverage when talking to the hard headed and intolerant). The overall information was invaluable to anyone wanting to understand the anathematic human condition. I highly recommend it to anyone who is thinking of erring, has erred or with a loved one who has erred. I hope it sheds light on your discomfort and confusion.