Stories by Incarcerated Writers That Will Change How You Think

Prison Writers created this series because real stories from incarcerated writers can do more than pass the time. They can help you see things differently, make better choices, understand other people more clearly, and put your own thoughts into words. These are not lectures from people who have never lived behind bars. These are true stories by currently incarcerated writers from across the country — stories that will help you deal with choices, pressure, regret, survival, family, conflict, humor, growth, and change.

Each course has eight lessons. In each lesson, you’ll read or listen to two short stories, then choose the one that made you think the most. Guided questions will help you look closer at what happened, what the writer learned, and what the story makes you think about in your own life.

At the end of each course, you’ll complete a short personal growth statement about what you learned and what skills you are working on.

The goal is not perfect answers. The goal is to think deeper, express yourself with more confidence, and better understand the kind of person you want to become.