Our Books
JEP publishes youth-led books that make the justice system accessible to the next generation. From First Steps into Criminal Justice Activism to our forthcoming Next Steps on AI and justice, these works combine research, lived experience, and expert voices to equip Gen Z to drive reform.
Next Steps into Criminal Justice Activism: Technology, Ethics, and the Future of Justice (2025)
The first book on AI and the justice system written by and for Gen Z.
Designed for young activists and future lawyers, this book unpacks how algorithms, surveillance, and digital evidence are reshaping the justice system, and what our generation can do about it.
About the Book:
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9 chapters on risk assessments, facial recognition, predictive policing, and AI in the courtroom
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Interviews with Columbia Law Professors Daniel Richman and Amber Baylor, alongside University of Pennsylvania Law Professor Colleen Shanahan
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Edited with contributions from Dr. Jamie Fader, Temple University, and Jay Stanley, ACLU Speech, Privacy & Technology Project
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Action steps for Gen Z to push for reform in an age of technology
REVIEWS
"This book is a must-read for youth — and frankly, their elders — seeking to better understand and rein in the myriad ways the AI revolution threatens to expand the carceral and surveillance states. It is a well-researched, clearly communicated, and empowering guide to these urgent issues."
Brandon Buskey, Director, ACLU Criminal Law Reform Project
“I’ve studied crime and justice for three decades, and I still learned a lot from this book — wow. By weaving together ShotSpotter, Ring cameras, risk prediction tools, and more into one narrative, it provides an accessible, engaging, and powerful guide with clear steps for change.”
Jamie J. Fader, PhD, Professor of Criminal Justice, Temple University
First Steps into Criminal Justice Activism: For Youth (2021)
The first-ever criminal justice reform book catered towards youth.
Designed for beginner activists, this accessible guide unpacks the U.S. criminal justice system: its history, failures, and the fight for change, through real stories, key terms, and clear action steps.
About the Book:
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12+ chapters on incarceration, policing, youth justice, and surveillance
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Interviews with Yale Law Professors Miriam Gohara and James Whitman, public defenders, system-impacted youth, and organizers
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Edited with contributions from the Equal Justice Initiative and National Police Accountability Project
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Glossary of key terms + historical timelines
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Ways to take action locally and online
REVIEWS
"I'm so impressed! This is an incredible resource... congratulations and well done!"
REBECCA GINSBURG, Professor at UIUC
“Impressive… I hope that this [book] ignites a real interest in passion among many young people to think carefully about these issues. You're the young minds and bodies that are going to overhaul the justice system forward.”
MIRIAM GOHARA, Professor at Yale Law School
“It's a valuable project, making this kind of information available to people at a younger age. I didn't get exposed to this until I was well into my adulthood. Thank you so much.”
AHMED LAVALAIS, Assistant Professor at University of Cincinnati Law School
In the Community
JEP leadership signing books at Jersey City Hall
JEP leaders with local government officials following the book launch