Vanha liitto kovien huumeiden käyttäjät 1960-1970-lukujen Helsingistä

This book is praised as a significant cultural contribution, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of early hard drug users in Finland during the 1960s and 70s. It delves into their drug careers and life stories from childhood, segmenting observations into themes such as drug markets, police actions, and health impacts. Reviewers highlight the book's success in giving a voice to those typically unheard, providing valuable personal narratives that convey a range of emotions, from the excitement of past exploits to the pain of loss. The work is lauded for its strong advocacy for harm reduction policies and for illustrating the historical drug geography of Helsinki, the formation of user groups, and the intricate dynamics of drug acquisition and trade.

While largely positive, the reviews identify a key area where the book could have offered more. It raises important questions about how the past connects to the present drug situation, prompting readers to reflect on what has changed and what remains similar. However, it is noted that the book could have more deeply explored these connections, similarities, differences, and potential lessons for contemporary drug policy. Additionally, the book presents users' concerns about modern drug culture, leaving the reader to ponder whether these worries are truly justified or if time has idealized past memories.

Overall, the book is considered an interesting and valuable historical document, providing extensive information on drug use, users, and the societal conditions of the period. It is highly recommended for anyone interested in the modern history of drug use in Finland, the lived experiences of drug users, and a comprehensive overview of the social landscape of the 1960s and 70s. Readers seeking authentic, personal accounts and insights into harm reduction will find this book particularly rewarding.