In prison, books do more than just pass time, they unlock minds, reshape thinking, and inspire change. Nonfiction, especially, holds a unique power. Whether it's true crime stories, memoirs of redemption, or self-help books, these real-life tales offer inmates the opportunity to reflect, learn, and grow. At Corrections Book Store, we’ve curated a list of the best nonfiction books that speak to the challenges, hopes, and realities of incarcerated readers across the U.S.
Why Nonfiction Books Matter in Prison
- They provide perspective: Real-life stories help inmates see their own journey from a wider lens.
- They offer practical lessons: Self-help and business books teach skills that apply both inside and after release.
- They inspire change: Memoirs of struggle and survival show that transformation is always possible.
1. Monster: The Autobiography of an L.A. Gang Member
Kody "Monster" Scott’s raw and brutally honest memoir of his time in the Crips and his eventual awakening is one of the most talked-about books in prisons across the country.
What Makes It Special:
It’s written by someone who lived the life, and got out. Inmates connect with Kody’s voice and find real hope in his transformation.
2. The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
This modern classic is often passed from bunk to bunk. Greene's strategic breakdown of power dynamics offers insight into behavior, control, and survival, both in prison and outside.
What Makes It Special:
It’s not just about manipulation, it teaches awareness. Readers learn how to recognize and protect themselves from power plays in any setting.
3. Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson
This powerful book from civil rights attorney Bryan Stevenson takes readers inside the U.S. justice system and the fight for the wrongfully incarcerated.
What Makes It Special:
Inmates see themselves in the pages. Stevenson’s empathy, advocacy, and victories give prisoners hope for fairness and change.
4. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl shares his experiences in Nazi concentration camps and introduces logotherapy, the belief that finding purpose is key to survival.
What Makes It Special:
This book is life-changing. It teaches inmates that no matter the circumstances, they can choose how to respond, and find meaning even behind bars.
5. Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
Navy SEAL David Goggins’ memoir is an extreme story of physical and mental toughness, overcoming abuse, racism, and personal demons to become an elite warrior.
What Makes It Special:
Inmates draw strength from Goggins’ mindset: “Stay hard.” His story shows what’s possible when you refuse to quit.
6. The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X & Alex Haley
Written during Malcolm’s own incarceration, this classic traces his transformation from hustler to activist.
What Makes It Special:
It’s often the first book inmates read that makes them rethink everything. It's relatable, radical, and real.
7. Inside the Criminal Mind by Stanton E. Samenow
This deep psychological dive explores how and why criminal thinking patterns form, and how to break them.
What Makes It Special:
Many prisoners see their own thought patterns reflected here. It’s a wake-up call and a tool for real mental change.
8. Letters to an Incarcerated Brother by Hill Harper
Actor and activist Hill Harper writes directly to inmates with messages of encouragement, responsibility, and rebuilding.
What Makes It Special:
It’s a direct conversation with the incarcerated. The tone is honest, uplifting, and practical, perfect for first-time or long-term inmates.
How to Order Books from Corrections Book Store
At Corrections Book Store, we make it easy for families and friends to send approved books directly to their loved ones behind bars. Here's how:
- Visit our website: www.correctionsbookstore.com
- Browse our curated collections: All books are correctional facility–compliant.
- Enter the inmate’s full mailing address at checkout.
- We ship directly to the correctional facility following all institutional guidelines.
Our store is dedicated exclusively to inmate book deliveries, that means secure shipping, approved formats, and reliable service.
Final Thoughts: Real Stories Fuel Real Change
Books like these don’t just entertain, they transform. Whether it’s understanding the justice system, gaining mental toughness, or seeing the path from street life to self-worth, nonfiction offers powerful tools to reflect, rebuild, and rise.
At Corrections Book Store, we believe every inmate deserves access to stories that can change their future, one page at a time.