I purchased this book, obviously, for a class,and I thought it was actually interesting. I had many texts that literally put me to sleep, but this one is different. It makes you think about the penal system in this country, and introduces issues to make you think about things other than locking up the bad guys and throwing away the key. My husband even wanted to read it when I finished my class!!! Recommend highly!!!!

Wow! What a great and interesting textbook. I think this is the first time I've actually been "current" in the reading required for a college course. I'd like to add that the study guide that you can purchase to accompany this textbook is excellent as well. I'd recommend a course that uses this book to anyone with an interest in criminal justice or corrections.

I am using this textbook in a class and it is a whopper. Wonderful pictures, easy to read, clear colors and understandable. I've been working in prisons for 5 years and this book makes a lot of sense. You ought to read their sections on women in prison and on probation. I loved the parts on geriatric prisoners (old cons) and the death penalty. And it is easy to read. More!