Sunday, October 2, 2016

10-02-16 Sarah Kremple's Memoirs & Biographies Genre

Prison Writings by Leonard Peltier





This is a powerful autobiography of the imprisonment of Leonard Peltier, an accused Native American who was involved in shooting 2 FBI agents in 1975. There was over 40 men who were involved in the shooting but Leonard was the only one tried and convicted and has spent the last 40 years in maximum security prison. It is a story of his struggle to be granted clemency from every president since Carter and how Native Americans are treated differently and unfairly.
Peltier has been a voice for Native Americans and has spent time mentoring other prisoners, painting, writing books and trying to keep in touch with his family. Prison Writings is a powerful book with truth that is hard to read about.

Students who are struggling with racism and unfairness because of culture or color of skin will resonate with this book. It would also be a good discussion topic for meetings and conversations revolving around sensitive topics like prison, cruelty and unfair treatment of minorities.

3 comments:

  1. Thanks for recommending this book, Sarah. I loved how you said it is "a powerful book with truth that is hard to read about." Sometimes topics that are uncomfortable are the most important to talk about.
    ~Andrea

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  2. I am glad that you shared this book and your review. Racism is something that has been around for centuries and is heartbreaking, and unfortunately still occurs today. I agree with you that this is a topic that would bring about good discussion and discourse around such a sensitive topic. More conversations like this should take place in the classroom and in the workplace. Change begins with one and is hopefully spread amongst others in a positive way.
    :) Adriana

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