It is an excellent book, clearly laid out and very easy to read. It is also small enough to carry in your handbag, and one you can pick up over and over again to use as a quick reference guide.

Definitely worth the investment!

Anyone who's thinking of joining would find it useful in its description of the police set-up and how the police services are organised and anyone preparing for interview would find some excellent food for thought regarding what it really takes to be a police officer. It also serves as an excellent primer in the law and procedure for the potential officer and a good - very basic - overview of criminal offences and points to prove.

If you already know any law or are already a serving officer you wouldn't find this book useful at all but it would really benefit a general reader that wants to know a bit more about the UK police without reading an enormous tome on the subject or anyone at any stage of the recruitment process (not just someone who's had a firm offer, as they suggest).

It's written in an easy to read style and has really helpful examples and points to consider throughout. The layout is very clear and chapters laid out logically. The book also reinforces knowledge by referring back to points covered earlier in the book (but not in an annoying or obtrusive way) and includes suggestions for further reading and web-links.

I'd say this book is a must for the potential recruit and rather better than most other general 'introduction to the police'-type books.