The more I immersed myself in the writings of prison scholars, the more opportunities emerged. One of the most significant relationships I developed was with Professor George Cole, who served as the dean of the Criminal Justice program at the University of Connecticut and authored several widely used textbooks, including American Corrections.
George invited me to contribute to his work, offering me assignments to write articles that he included in his textbooks. Over time, he asked me to author entire chapters. Through these collaborations, I felt a growing sense of validation—undergraduate students were learning about the prison system through materials that included my contributions.
George visited me during my confinement in a federal prison in McKean County, Pennsylvania, and again after I transferred to Fort Dix, New Jersey. Beyond his mentorship, he expanded my academic network, introducing me to esteemed colleagues such as Professor Todd Clear from Rutgers University.
As the turn of the century approached, George suggested that I author a book describing the prison system from my perspective. He introduced me to his editor, Sabra Horne, at Wadsworth Thompson Publishing. By then, I had been collaborating with George for several years, and the publisher issued a contract for my book, About Prison.
Receiving an academic publishing contract while still confined was a monumental milestone. Despite having more than a decade of imprisonment ahead, the publishing deal validated that my work had value and could contribute meaningfully to society. However, the contract presented challenges—prison rules prohibited conducting business, and earning income could lead to disciplinary action.
Seeking clarity, I approached my case manager, who advised me to write to the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) regional office for guidance. A lawyer at the regional office responded, confirming that as long as my work did not incite disturbances and I did not earn income directly, I was permitted to publish. With that assurance, I approached the prison captain, who oversaw security. I disclosed the publishing contract, which included a provision for royalties. To comply with prison rules, I proposed assigning all royalties from the book to my sister, Julie. The captain, familiar with my work and supportive of my efforts, agreed to the arrangement, enabling me to proceed.
The publication of About Prison marked a turning point. It not only reinforced my belief in the power of education and advocacy but also connected me to my wife. The publisher included my book as part of a package with George’s textbook, American Corrections, amplifying its reach and impact.
This project profoundly influenced my journey through incarceration and shaped the trajectory of my life. It underscored the importance of mentorship, perseverance, and finding ways to contribute meaningfully, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Self-Directed Learning Question:
- “What skills or knowledge can you develop today that might contribute to a larger opportunity in the future?”
