Writing My Wrongs: Life, Death, and Redemption in an American Prison

Greetings my brother. My name is Rico Sims. I'm from Sacramento California however currently I'm in the state of Texas. I'm serving a 20 year sentence for murder I pled bargain for. I'll be 38 years old June, I was arrested in June 2010. 17 days before your release. I just finished reading your book and I must admit I was touched to my breaking point. However, you gave me hope and more of a appetite to learn and energy to keep walking my time down. From the first page to the last. You had my mind captured. You really have an inspirational testimony yet that wasn't the only thing that caught my attention. Our lives were similar in some ways when it comes to the streets. Living in California, pistol play was more of the norm then pop warner football or other activities teenagers got involved in. By far did I just wake up one day and say I wanna change. My change came with the reality of our fallen race and the people I have cause so much pain. My victim and his family, my wonderful family and witnessing our brothers and sisters deteriorate over greed. And most knowingly admitting to being a big part of this devilish lifestyle. I want to help even more and agree with you. It's time my brother and I want you to know that we have brothers like you working in endlessly to make a difference. Keep up the great work Shaka, please know you're a blessing to me and our brothers and sisters.

I saw Shaka Senghor on Sarah Silverman's I Love You, America. After that episode, I bought this book because I wanted to hear more of his story. It was really worth it. In telling his story, he transitions back and forth between the story of the life that led to his incarceration and the story of his time in Michigan's correctional system. I found it very insightful. There is certainly work to be done to improve the system. Reading stories like this give us insight into what types of changes need to happen.This book could be very inspirational for those going through difficult times, at risk of going to prison or already there. One can make a change for the better, and the author is proof of that.There is language that some may find offensive but is definitely appropriate for the subject matter.

Most reviews and recommendations here focus on the hope and possibility of redemption. But this book also sheds light on the many emotional pressures on children either from their neighborhoods, family disruption, lack of communication, and so many combinations that cause children to lose the promise of a bright future and fall into dysfunctional and ultimately self-destructive and dangerous behaviors. Furthermore we see how our legal and penal system then serve to reinforce the anger, violence and helplessness, that the author so clearly describes of so many of the other young men with whom he served prison time, and in his own personal experience. Yes, he was able to use his intellect, love of reading and self-reflection to eventually gain a perspective, along with love and support from those who cared about him, to climb out of his despair and build an amazing meaningful life helping others who had been through similar trauma. But this book also helps us all learn and care about the many forms of victims our society continues to create.

*I'm Ugly Crying.I picked this book up years ago on a whim after I saw Shaka on The Daily Show and quietly stashed it on a shelf, forgotten about until the pandemic forced me to stare at that shelf long enough to clean it out.The rawness of the emotion, and the familiarity of it, makes this a gripping read. It opens a window into a vicious world that Shaka entered at 14 because of feelings that I had struggled with at the same age - abandonment, rejection, depression, anxiety, and a desperate need to belong somewhere even if it's wrong. This is a hopeful story that helps people completely removed from this world feel connected and empathetic toward the very human experience that shape people.

This memoir was frightening to read. I didn't want to read it but my Book Club chose it, so I knew I had to give it a chance. As I read, I realized it was more than a well written story, it was a mirror to my faith. I am a committed Christian and I truly believe the promises made in the Bible are from God and are to be followed. The greatest commandment states, " Love the Lord your God and your neighbor as yourself.". Thank you Shaka for your life and the work you are continuing in this world to bring peace and HOPE to all.

In the last few years I've learned: Never to judge a book by its cover, never judge where a person have been, and never assume just because a person isn't walking the same journey like yours doesn't mean they’re unmotivated.And then there’s Shaka Senghor.He's the epitome of “second chances”. Anyone can say they’re redeemed, but actions truly speak louder than words -- and in his latest book, “Writing My Wrongs: Life, Death, and Redemption in an American Prison”, proves that seeking a second chance takes perseverance and crazy, unwavering faith.In this novel, Shaka writes an honest portrayal of his childhood leading to his nineteen years in prison. The descriptive details through page after page is extraordinarily raw, conveying prison life only a former inmate could do..If you work with kids, or a community activist, or just enjoy a great read, this book is for you! Moreover, Senghor’s prolific storytelling will move you to think deeper about self-worth and overcoming challenges when hope is all you have.In other words, grab your copy today!

One of the best memoirs I've read in a long time.Writing My Wrongs is about the power of hope, change, and redemption. It sheds light on the gritty reality of prison and the truth of mass incarceration.An important, poignant and powerful book, which should get the hands of every youth in public schools, detention centers, and prisons across America.*** I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

This is a great read.It's Shaka's stories of the street,of prison of the work he did and the chances he was given. The chances he took again and again to redeem himself and bring something constructive and positive into the world when it would have been easier to succumb to the madness.There are lessons here for all young men who face an impossible situation and I hope some of the tools that he developed to change his situation could be harnessed to help a new generation of men crying out for helpGreetings from Ireland my friend,much love and respect.

His writing style is intelligent and divine, his honesty makes you demanding. His story revolutionises. How he speaks of prison life and solitary confinement sometimes feels like a microcosm of life outside prison bars. Rape, corruption, violence, mental illness, injustice, justice, trust, betrayal, hope, love and finally redemption– but intensified by 500%. The inspiring thing about Shaka – he knew the right questions to ask himself, then had the courage to do something with the answers he found.A book for people interested in other people.

Fantastic story, well written, makes you open your mind and view life from another's perspective. Life affirming lessons.

Absorbing and gripping

An Oprah recommendation as usual very good.