Prison censorship is the most pervasive form of censorship in the United States, according to PEN America. We believe all individuals should have the right to choose what they want to read, without the interference of assumptions about what they might do with the information they encounter.
This three-book bundle of books banned in prisons features hip-hop legend Gucci Mane’s triumphant first book, a revealing, insightful autobiography written while serving time in a maximum-security institution.
Plus, you’ll receive Prison Ramen, a collection of recipes and stories from behind bars, by Clifton Collins Jr. and Gustavo “Goose” Alvarez, and The Pocket Guide to Outdoor Knots by Geoffrey Budworth. Also, you'll find some rope to practice your knot-tying skills.
Scribbler extraordinaire Robin Morgan designed the “Reading is for Everyone” pin, and Librarian Artist AnneArchy created the hand drawn “Revolution Now” nigella (AKA love-in-a-mist) flower paper sticker.
Why aren’t inmates allowed access to materials like these? It’s difficult to say. Where reasons for prohibition are noted by prison officials, they tend to indicate concerns for the potential to breach security, or to aid in committing various crimes, or for sexual gratification.
Want more information about how you can help prisoners access books? It’s in the box.