I just read this book and I think it's pretty good. The author, Ted Conover, is a journalist curious to learn about the workings inside a prison-from a CO's perspective. He actually takes the test to become a trainee, then goes off to the Academy to officially become a CO stationed at Sing Sing Correctional Facility.

In the book he touches many topics and also mentions Coxsackie and other NY prisons. It offers interesting insights into what life is like for them, the constant stress and fear of danger. The copyright is 98 I think, so the book is pretty old, but I believe the story is timeless.

Has anyone read this book? Can anyone suggest any other books about prison, from the view of an inmate or otherwise? I know someone in prison and I'm trying to understand what life's like for him right now. I hear In the Belly of the Beast is good, I think I'm going to read that next.

I have not read this book, but thanks for sharing this information...

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The Prisoner's Wife, by Asha Bandale is a must read. Based on her relationship with her husband, who is incarcerated, it tells her story of what his time away has meant. I enjoyed it and saw myself in many ways. Check it out...Peace.... I did read Conover's book.

I have read both these books. :thumbsup:

I also read both of these books ... TPW is my all time fave, I have both the hardcover and the paperback which I read at least once every few months. I read the New Jack book awhile ago but I'd borrowed it from the library, I don't own it. I'm going to purchase it as soon as I can. From what I remember of it, it seems like the guy was struggling w/his humanity and the ways that were instilled in him at the academy. I'm going to purchase it as soon as I can ... thanks for jogging my memory that this was one of the books I wanted to add to my personal library! :)

trescheek,

have you read any coming home books to reccomend? I know of many but have not read them yet...
thanks

In my search for books about men in prison and moreover how women relate to them once the men are released, my search included How to love and Inspire your man after prison, by Michael B.Jackson, a former prison. Thought the book was weak, and author's attempt to put words(much of it is repeat) on paper just to present a book. Some of it was of value;stuff about parole, being patient, yet I was mostly disappointed. The best part of the book was the comments submitted by two women both of whom are dealing with men post release. Thought the story presented by Storm Reyes was powerful and truly represented the book. Would like to see her write a book. The second book I read is Dream Lovers Women who Marry Men Behind Bars, by Jacqueline Willcox-Bailey. A cute book about men in Australia and women they marry. Brought some insight yet the story of Australia is something this Afrikan-american woman had very little in which to relate. Any suggestions for books would be appreciated. The Prisoner Wife remains a great read; Asha, the sister from Essence magazine did a commendable job...Peace

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thanks for this critique too - I was wondering about that book by michael jackson.
I was looking to hear about books like this being read.