Customer Reviews

Life Sentences: Rage and Survival Behind Bars

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Rideau and Wikberg discuss the ways the prison system reinforces violence as a coping mechanism. Factual accounts of inmates' experiences are recounted in detail as examples to the author's theory, and observations of prison psychiatrists are presented in support of the authors' view. Out of deprivation and hopelessness, most inmates will neglect to work on those issues that would enable their successful rehabilitation, and it is easy to see why, in light of the harshness of prison life. The ways in which the system has inadvertently rewarded violent behavior throughout history is also evident, in spite of the many reforms that have been enacted. The message that we still have a long way to go is quite clear, as there really is no reprieve from the harshness of prison life. Until we begin to understand the reasons prisoners resist rehabilitation, we cannot even begin to solve the crime problem in America.

This is a book every socially conscious American should read. A collection of works from the only uncensored prison newspaper in America, the award-winning "Angolite", this books encompasses everything from the mundane to the extraordinary, from the poignant to the horrifying realities of prison life. It covers both the fiscal concerns and the human issues involved in incarceration. I highly recommend it.

While there are newer books on prison life, this is still one of the best. It gives a surprisingly balanced view of past and current treatment of prisoners and a good look at prisoners' lives from their own perspective.

Book was in the (very good) condition as described, and it was delivered/received promptly--less than a week! A+ service!

While there are newer books on prison life, this is still one of the best. It gives a surprisingly balanced view of past and current treatment of prisoners and a good look at prisoners' lives from their own perspective.

'Life Sentences' is collection of essays from as long ago as the 1950s.

The essays are written by inmates and have the angle that the prison system is evil and that they are good men wronged by the world.

They complain about capital punishment and not getting to have glass containers in their cells with the same level of indignation.

In one section a prisoner is reported by the book itself to have been seen 16 feet from a murder scene, told law enforcement officials facts about the murder he couldn't have known unless saw the crime happen and then he pleaded guilty in court. The authors then state "There appears to have been little real evidence Williams actually committed the murder". Get real.

If you want a book about prisons instead of complaints by prisoners done wrong try 'Men Behind Bars' by Wayne Wooden and Jay Parker.