Welcome to Litsy!

A nonfiction account of a professor who teaches a Shakespeare class at a max-security prison. The results are life-changing for some inmates. I loved the prisoners' interpretation of the Bard's plays. Their unique perspective gave added depth to the plays.

“Why is a prisoner‘s motivation to earn a degree so he can return to his family sooner viewed more negatively than a campus student‘s motivation to earn a degree so he can make more money?”

Engaging book about prison education and reading programs. Makes a strong case for how books can change lives, no matter the setting. The focus here is Shakespeare, who covered everything and can be interpreted in so many ways. Bates received a Mother‘s Day card from one inmate whose life she touched.

#Shakespeare #prison #prisonlibrary #bookschangelives

“This place is great!” Newton told me that day, gesticulating around his cell. “Great for reading Shakespeare.”

#Shakespeare #prisonlibrary #prison

Ms Bates got into solitary confinement to teach #Shakespeare. That‘s dedication.

I loved this book! It made me think about how prisoners are treated. Some of the descriptions of Newton's cells were horrifying. This book also showed what I already knew: reading changes the reader.

Not perfect, but a good listen. It takes place in Indiana, where I was born and raised, so everything is familiar. Even the supermax where the story primarily takes place is one with which I have a peripheral connection. A peek into the current "justice" system.

I read this book for my book club, and wasn't interested so I kinda put it off until the last minute. I have to say, I enjoyed it! I liked that it was a true story, all the pictures, and the description's she gives of the jail, really had me interested. I was pleasantly surprised!!