Each week Book 'Em volunteers read dozens of letters from prisoners. Some prisoners write simple one-line requests, other write near novels about their lives. Letters from prisoners offer a small illumination of this separate world, a window into this different reality. The quotes below are compiled from letters prisoners across the country have mailed to Book 'Em over the years.
Please note that we have not changed the writers' grammar or spelling.
What they request...
Please send me up to two books pertaining to philosophy and /or metaphysics. I'm in dire need of a college level dictionary, the 1500 page type. I imagine you rarely have one, but still I ask. Thanks again!
-MWM, Ridgeville, South Carolina
I am writing on behalf of my fellow inmate, JH. He has asked me to write this letter to you because he is unable to. You see, my friend can't read or write very well but has an intense desire to learn. Although our library here at Everglades Correctional Center does have quite a few books, there are none at an elementary level. I have received books from you in the past and figure you can help my friend. He would like some books at the 1st-3rd grade level so he can learn the basics of reading and writing. We appreciate your support very much. Thank you.
-A friend of JH, Everglades, Florida
If you have a world almanac I would appreciate it very much. I need it for my class information and the research are in them.
-AJM Memphis, Tennessee
Click here to read more sample requests...
Thank you's...
...You were kind enough to mail me your 2005 Prison Resource Guide. From that small act of kindness from you, I was able to reach out from the state of solitary confinement that I still find myself in. I have connected with organizations, made friends, and have been able to survive the past year and a half in solitary confinement. And I must say that I could not have done it without that first Resource Guide.
-J, Huntingdon, PA
Thank you for the very wonderful books that you sent to me. I received a self publishing manual and a wonderful book on Integrity. This book is right on time because in my [study group] we have been discussing "Ethics" for three weeks and now I have something to build upon to contribute without deviating from the topic.
-W, Somerset, Pennsylvania
So as I said, I would like you to know I really appreciate the books you sent. Books are so hard to come by in here. It's sad... You should know, though, that those who are interested will likely also be reading what you've sent my way. When all is said and done I want to be sure all these books have been very well read... Know you are all thought of with warmth and deepest gratitude. Be well.
-T, Trenton, NJ
Click here to read more thank you's...
The thoughts they share...
Life's Lesson
Someday when life's lesson has been taught/When finished the toil for that
which we've sought.
We shall know at last, at the end of our quest/That the years have taught us,
to love is best.
The toiler who wrought with hand and brain/The heroes of war, emblazoned by
flame.
They all shall know, --deep in each breast--/That neither gold nor fame, but
to love is best.
And the idler who traveled a barren road/Who never to stooped to his
brother's load.
Shall know at last, at the end of his rest/That of all life's joys, to love
is best.
-by WEB, Westville, Indiana
All Alone
I clearly remember my first day in jail/I was little fragile and probably a
little pale
A neutron on the new, not a pretty sight/But I made a vow, not to go down
without a fight
Two and a half years later and still going strong, it was pure will power
that I made it this long
Plenty of days I sought for an end hoping beyond hope, my heart would mend
Could anything possibly mend this broken heart?/A heart that has been
tortured and busted apart?
It's the wolf's heart that is bleeding inside/You can see it in my eyes and
hear it in my cries
A tormented life I've lived thus far, if only I had one wish from a shining
star
I'd wish for an end of this man-made hell/cause I'm all alone in this world,
all alone in this cell