Editor’s note: In a profession that rarely slows down, carving out time to read, reflect and talk with others can be a powerful way to recharge. The Corrections1 Book Club series is about more than reviewing titles — it’s about starting conversations that help us think differently, share experiences and support each other through the challenges of the job. Each selection will include reviews, excerpts and discussion questions to guide meaningful conversations in your facility or among peers. What book should we read next? Share your ideas in the comments or email editor@corrections1.com.
Book: “Imprisoned Minds: Lost Boys, Trapped Men, and Solutions from within the Prison”
Authors: Erik S. Maloney & Kevin A. Wright
Order: Available on Amazon
There are many articles, books and movies that depict the real and imagined worlds of incarceration, most of them through a dark lens. In general, society has a significant lack of understanding of what truly happens inside a correctional facility, leaving that lack of context to be filled by imagination and assumptions based largely on movies, television and media coverage. These misconceptions, rooted in negative portrayals, tend to highlight the “bad” things inmates do or have done, while depicting “guards” as just a notch above them on the societal totem pole, wielding batons to keep inmates in line. Of course, those inside the walls know a very different reality, but that does little to change the broader public perception.
In “Imprisoned Minds,” Erik S. Maloney and Dr. Kevin A. Wright do exactly that — illuminating the lived experiences of six incarcerated individuals and exploring how their backgrounds, trauma, familial patterns and societal influences contributed to their “imprisoned minds.” This is not a sensationalized tale of crime and punishment. It is a nuanced, human-centered narrative that gives voice to men often relegated to headlines and misconceptions.
Six stories, one shared humanity
Throughout the book, we learn about Kidd, Sergeant, Oso, Dee, Oakland and Unique, and the varied and challenging lives they lived prior to incarceration. The authors selected individuals of diverse race, ethnicity and culture to create a well-rounded and authentic collection of meaningful, impactful narratives. The concept of the “imprisoned mind,” and how it develops, is well documented in each story, along with ideas for early recognition, preventive measures and post–“imprisoned mind” counseling. The goal, as eloquently stated, is to break the cycle and help keep us all safer while bringing positive change to society overall.
Beyond stories — toward understanding
I would bargain that neither author wished for notoriety, wanting the focus to be on the “Imprisoned Minds” concept and the individuals who shared their stories in an environment where it takes real courage. The truth is this is their story too. One could argue they are polar opposites as to race, experience and upbringing. Erik, an inmate currently serving his 24th year of a life sentence for murder and the co-founder of The Arizona Transformation Project, and Kevin, a professor in the School of Criminology and Director of the Center for Correctional Solutions at Arizona State University have published a book that, as Kevin writes, could not have been written by either one alone to attain the authenticity required from such a work.
The two met as part of the Arizona Transformation Project at Arizona State University, an Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program, where Erik was one of the group’s first members. He didn’t feel that anyone would want to hear his “Imprisoned Minds” concept, let alone entertain his idea for a book. Kevin gave him what he needed in a “Listening Ear.” You know, the one where you ask someone how their day is and care enough to listen to the answer? This had a major impact on them both, and together, over nearly seven years, they developed a narrative that is truly unique and long overdue. A blend of perspectives and experiences from the incarcerated and academic dynamics. From Erik’s countless interviews, to writing drafts with pencil and paper, as no computers or internet are available at his prison, to Kevin collecting and transcribing them, the effort it took to bring this project to fruition, and the potential impact it could bring, speaks volumes.
In the book, Erik maintains, “Everyone has a story.” He’s not wrong, and his desire to have a meaningful impact on the lives of others, inside and outside of the prison setting, is a story of redemption within himself that doesn’t take away the crime or the conviction, but shows conviction of character. It speaks of hope ... which sometimes is all we have.
Book club discussion questions
Use these prompts to start your next team or book club discussion.
- How did the concept of the “imprisoned mind” influence your understanding of incarcerated individuals and the factors that shape their behavior?
- The authors provide context around trauma, culture and upbringing without excusing criminal behavior. How can corrections professionals balance accountability with understanding in their daily work?
- What practical lessons from this book can correctional staff apply to improve communication, safety and outcomes inside their facilities?
Have a book you think every corrections professional should read? Tell us what’s on your shelf — we might feature it in an upcoming review. Share below.