Penitentiary Tales

From the Governor General’s Award winning author of Forms of Devotion, Our Lady of the Lost and Found and By the Book “Never once in my life had I dreamed of being in bed with a convicted killer.” For almost six turbulent years, award-winning writer Diane Schoemperlen was involved with a prison inmate serving a life sentence for second-degree murder. The relationship surprised no one more than her. How do you fall in love with a man with a violent past? How do you date someone who is in prison? This Is Not My Life is the story of the romance between Diane and Shane—how they met and fell in love, how they navigated passes and parole and the obstacles facing a long-term prisoner attempting to return to society, and how, eventually, things fell apart. While no relationship takes place in a vacuum, this is never more true than when that relationship is with a federal inmate. In this candid, often wry, sometimes disturbing memoir, Schoemperlen takes us inside this complex and difficult relationship as she journeys through the prison system with Shane. Not only did this relationship enlarge her capacity for both empathy and compassion, but it also forced her to more deeply examine herself.

Tales from the Jail is a funny, moving and poignant account of an outsider’s encounters with the inmates of Tihar Jail. This unforgettable collection of short stories will give you a rare glimpse into the world of prisons and the lives of its inhabitants. It will take you on a personal journey through Tihar and introduce you to some of its most memorable characters. Most of all, it will give you hope. “The book is inspiring. It deeply touches sensitive aspects of human relationships and ends with a note of guarded optimism for elevation of the human mind and spirit.” – Soli Sorabjee, Former Attorney-General of India

Sunetra Choudhury started her career at The Indian Express in 1999, as a metro reporter. In 2000, as a recognition of her abilities she was sent for Japan’s Foreign Press Centre Fellowship by the paper. She became Indian Express’ youngest Deputy Chief Reporter at 24 and also brought out Newsline, the pull-out city section. In 2002, Sunetra joined the launch team of Star News, a 24-hour Hindi news channel. Within a year, she moved to NDTV. After the success of one of her assignments at NDTV, covering the 2009 election campaign, she authored Braking News. Sunetra anchors a daily, audience-based show called Agenda – the only out-of-studio show of its kind – and a primetime show on student leaders and elections. In April 2016, she got the Red Ink award for her story on how Indians were adopting disabled children.

A completely new, fresh, and frightening take on "prison literature."

inmates and the unique dynamics of each perilous environment. The narrative takes readers on a journey across continents, exploring the chilling atmospheres of maximum-security prisons that have gained notoriety for their formidable reputation. Through vivid storytelling, the book paints a detailed picture of life behind bars, depicting the struggles, dangers, and human stories that unfold within the confines of these formidable institutions. Each chapter of the book is a standalone tale, focusing on a different dangerous prison and its distinctive challenges. From high-security facilities notorious for housing the most dangerous criminals to prisons plagued by corruption and violence, the narratives are both enlightening and disturbing. Readers are immersed in the stark realities faced by inmates, shedding light on the impact of incarceration on individuals and the broader society. The book doesn't merely recount the harsh conditions and dangers within these prisons but also explores the systemic issues that contribute to their notoriety. It delves into the socio-political and economic factors that underpin the existence of these dangerous institutions, raising questions about the efficacy of punitive measures and the possibilities for reform.

How an affluent, educated, straight white male from California survives a prison dominated by a diverse population of inmates from the mean streets of Chicago. Addressing issues of race and gender, it is at once a serious inquiry into the minds and hearts of the marginalized and the oppressed, and a bit of a romp.

Introduction to Penology and Corrections offers the best of two worlds, covering the practical matters that jail and prison administrators face, along with the theories behind punishment and the management of correctional facilities. Introduction to Penology and Corrections by experienced author Laura Pinto Hansen combines the study of punishment alongside corrections, balancing the perspectives of academics, practitioners, and prisoners. In addition, the text includes cross-cultural, cross-national views in punishment and corrections, as well as real-life stories from professionals in corrections, family members of the accused/incarcerated, and prisoners. While taking into consideration the practical matters that jail and prison administrators and staff face, this comprehensive text also explores the theories behind punishment and the management of correctional facilities. Professors and students will benefit from: Comprehensive review of philosophies and history of punishment, both in the United States and elsewhere in the world. Each chapter includes Stories from Behind Bars and International Perspectives designed to offer an inclusive view of the culture of punishment through the eyes of staff and prisoners. Introduction to a wide variety of potential careers in the field of corrections today, including the perceptions and realities of these jobs. Current social justice issues surrounding criminal justice and corrections are spotlighted. Comparisons of male and female detainees and inmates, along with the challenges that the transgender population face while incarcerated. Medical and mental health issues, including those that have been particularly challenging in corrections during the COVID-19 pandemic, are highlighted. Learning objectives and key terms with definitions in each chapter help students understand new concepts.