A memoir by a man who tells his story with brutal honesty, this book delves into the darker side of Bristol - a side that few even know about. Paul Scrase ran brothels, had a hand in drugs, and spent time in prison. But he is also shown as a loving family man, someone who managed to successfully run legitimate companies and help train construction workers in the Middle East. No, this is not a book of glamour and airy prose, but a rollicking account of things most readers will find shocking - providing an insight into Bristol like never before. Yet what could amount to a rogue's tale of misdeeds is also an intensely human journey, imparting lessons to us all. "Bristol - a city renown for its creativity, `green' ethos, and vibrant cultural scene. But behind the acclaim and awards is a world of crime, prostitution, grinding poverty and violence. Paul Scrase's book reveals this world like no other."
Paul Scrase was born and grew up in Bristol. He worked for a number of scaffolding companies before going on to run his own. At the same time Paul also got involved with crime from an early age, spending several years in prison. He has always wanted to tell his story to others and hopes it can be a source of inspiration to those who may come from similar backgrounds. Paul is now the proud father of two daughters.
"Paul Scrase's 'Sticks and Stones' is a book like none I have ever read before. His memoir is a brutally revealing telling of his life story - tragic and tough. His prose moves rapidly, both from one emotion to another, and also from one part of his life to the next. The book, never dull ('dull' could certainly never be said of this man's life) takes the reader through an entire life, enriched with its own details and complexities. If you want stylisation, glorification or bland 'easy-reading' then stick to what's familiar. But if you want something really interesting, meaningful and powerful then do yourself a favour and explore Scrase's memoir - it deserves your time." -- Henry Spicer
