Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing

Title: Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing

Author: Ted Conover

Summary: This book verifies the suspicion I have had for a long time, doing time in prison is hell...no matter what side of the bars you are on. Ted Conover reveals the bleakness, and the tedium that faces the prison guard is never ending, augmented by the constant tension and underlying current of fear. In a evenhanded and compassionate book, Conover reveals the day to day that these men and women face, with little respect, little reward, and no relief. We read as some of the brighter lights in the system are put out, like Momma Cradle, and see how the constant exposure to the hardest of society take a toll on all who do the work. It is like Chinese water torture...where will he be assigned, who will he have to face, will he make it through the day without getting attacked, or will his journalistic designs be discovered? Newjack is a very honest and riveting book.

Recommendation: A definite recommendation. Ted Conover is at his best in this book. A great choice for anyone looking for nonfiction.

Hearts: 5