'Margarita Zernova has weighed an English restorative justice programme in the balance of restorative justice aspirations and found it wanting. Rather than focusing on programme shortcomings, she argues that these disparities raise questions about the ideals themselves. Her conclusions add a new dimension to the continuing debate about this important social movement.' Daniel W. Van Ness, Centre for Justice and Reconciliation at Prison Fellowship International, UK 'This book asks some searching questions of restorative justice practice - and of the extent to which restorative justice ideals can be achieved. Very readable, and drawing upon original research on youth conferencing, it spotlights restorative values and examines the tensions between them and the ways they are adapted by professionals. ' Joanna Shapland, University of Sheffield, UK