Let Him Have It, Chris

by M.J. Trow

Genres: True Crime

272 pages, Paperback

First published September 10, 1990

About the author

Meirion James Trow is a full-time teacher of history who has been doubling as a crime writer for seventeen years. Originally from Ferndale, Rhondda in South Wales he now lives on the Isle of Wight. His interests include collecting militaria, film, the supernatural and true crime.

Reviews

[Izzie Flynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this many years ago and it was a fantastic story. I remember falling in love with Derek Bentley almost immediately. The innocent mentality of a boy combined with the merciless cruelty he faces from a mere misunderstanding, is inconceivable yet poetic. The emotion and guilt you feel for Derek is indescribable, almost on par with Piggy in Lord of the Flies. A book that will truly stay with you forever. The 1991 film adaptation featuring the wonderful Christopher Eccleston, probably better know for his role in Dr.Who, is a must-see ! ONLY AFTER YOUVE READ THE BOOK THOUGH!

[freyas books · Rating 4 out of 5]

was very informative, was definitely different to normal history/factual books.

[Val · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read this many years ago, but have re -read it recently. It’s totally inconceivable that just a few words can change the course of someone’s life forever. What was he meaning when he said the words Let Him Have It Chris? Shoot, or hand it over?
Given his mental capacity, personally I doubt very much it was the former, but that’s my personal opinion.
It’s a heart wrenching story, that stays with the reader for the longest time. I first read this years ago, but have recently revisited it - the second reading is as difficult as the first. The justice system was as flawed then as ever. There’s a film starring Christopher Eccleston - also recommended.