Between Peasants, first published in Italian (1884), is Errico Malatesta's most widely read pamphlet and it is easily understood why this piece is so well-received. Between Peasants is a wonderful introduction to the basic principles of anarchism marks by Malatesta's humble tone and straightforward writing style. Though Malatesta was writing for the rural landless workers of his time, this analysis of the social problems caused by capitalism and his suggested path to a new world of freedom and justice remain relevant today — the rich still own the vast majority of the land and the means of production — they continue to hold the greater part of humanity in bondage. It remains the task of the oppressed to unite in an international mass movement, based on shared interests, to end the collective misery, through revolution.

In this short work, Malatesta introduces radical concepts and revolutionary solutions in a way that will resonate with today's English-speaking working class, just as it did for 19th century Italian peasants.

A small classic in the literature of revolt, this rare book lays out the foundational philosophy of anarchism, exposing the possibilities of a society without hierarchies of control, power and oppression. The author, Malatesta, spent years in prison, formulating his ideas in exile. This small book will serve as an invaluable guidestone for modern activists and those seeking to challenge the system of privilege, power, and oppression as it exists in modern times.

While Malatesta was hiding from the police he regularly went to a café in Ancona, Italy. He had shaved off his usual beard but he was still taking a risk. Especially as this wasn't an anarchist café, but had a variety of customers including the local policeman. The conversations he had in this café became the basis for the dialogues that make up this book.

For the first time in English, Malatesta, in his usual commonsense and matter-of-fact style, sets out and critically analyses the arguments for and against anarchism. Translated by Paul Nursey-Bray, this is a classic defence of anarchism that anticipates the rise of nationalism, fascism and communism.

Errico Malatesta, nome proeminente do anarquismo italiano e mundial, frequentava regularmente um café na cidade de Ancona enquanto era perseguido pelas autoridades. Embora tivesse raspado sua característica barba, ainda corria um risco já que não se tratava de um café anarquista, mas que incluía uma variedade de clientes — inclusive policiais. As conversas que ele teve nesse café se tornaram a base dos diálogos que compõem esse livro.

Malatesta, em seu estilo costumeiramente claro e que vai direto ao ponto, analisa criticamente os argumentos a favor e contra o anarquismo. Ao verdadeiro mapa que propõe para a teoria e prática anarquista, soma-se também a esta obra a lucidez e discernimento com que prefigura a ascensão do fascismo e do comunismo.