In the United States, nearly two-thirds of formerly incarcerated individuals return to prison within three years of release. This cycle of recidivism drains public resources, fractures communities, and leaves individuals feeling hopeless. But there's one proven tool that breaks this cycle: education.
Education—formal or self-guided—is one of the most effective ways to reduce recidivism. Inmates who develop their minds, improve their communication, and build new skills are far more likely to re-enter society successfully. At Corrections Bookstore, we provide access to transformative educational books that empower inmates with the knowledge and confidence to rebuild their lives.
This blog explores how education reduces recidivism and highlights specific books from our collection that can help make that transformation possible.
The Link Between Education and Lower Recidivism Rates
Numerous studies have shown a clear connection between access to education in prison and a reduction in re-offense rates:
- The RAND Corporation found that inmates who participated in educational programs were 43% less likely to return to prison.
- Every dollar spent on prison education programs saves four to five dollars in reincarceration costs.
- Inmates who earn GEDs, complete college courses, or even engage in self-education are more likely to find employment after release—a key factor in preventing recidivism.
Education opens the door to change. When a person learns to think critically, communicate effectively, and envision a better future, they’re far more likely to leave prison with a plan and purpose.
How Books Help Foster Personal and Academic Growth
While formal programs are ideal, not all inmates have access to them. Books are a powerful alternative. They:
- Encourage daily learning routines
- Improve literacy and comprehension
- Promote emotional growth and mental clarity
- Provide practical tools for post-release success
Below, we’ve highlighted several key books from the Corrections Bookstore Educational Collection that directly support this goal.
Top Books That Help Inmates Build an Educated Future
1. The Art & Power of Letter Writing
Strong writing skills are essential in and outside of prison—whether communicating with loved ones, parole boards, or potential employers. This book helps inmates improve grammar, structure, and tone while promoting emotional expression through letter writing.
🔹 Educational Value:
- Improves writing fluency and clarity
- Reinforces reading comprehension
- Builds emotional intelligence and communication skills
This is often a gateway book for inmates who feel intimidated by more academic texts but are eager to reconnect with others.
2. Business Women Composition Notebook for Inmates
Designed as a motivational journaling tool, this notebook provides structure for inmates to map out business ideas, track habits, or reflect on personal development. Writing daily improves cognitive skills and promotes self-discipline.
🔹 Educational Value:
- Encourages entrepreneurship and planning
- Fosters self-reflection and goal-setting
- Develops routine writing practice
This is a perfect supplement for inmates interested in starting a business post-release.
3. 1000 Sudoku for Inmates (Vol. 4)
Cognitive training is vital for developing mental discipline, and Sudoku is a proven method for enhancing logic, patience, and focus. These brain games are a great way to sharpen problem-solving skills that can be applied in real-life scenarios.
🔹 Educational Value:
- Boosts concentration and analytical thinking
- Promotes structure and pattern recognition
- Reduces impulsive behavior through mental focus
This kind of intellectual stimulation is essential for inmates preparing to face complex life decisions after release.
4. Mixed Puzzle Activity Book for Inmates (Vol. 10)
This book features a mix of puzzles—word searches, crosswords, math games—that reinforce vocabulary, logic, and math skills. Inmates who engage with puzzle books regularly demonstrate higher mental clarity and reduced boredom-related issues.
🔹 Educational Value:
- Reinforces spelling, vocabulary, and arithmetic
- Encourages critical thinking
- Fosters a daily learning habit
This is a valuable resource for inmates working toward GED prep or simply looking to sharpen basic skills.
5. Mandala Coloring Book for Inmates (Vol. 1)
While not a textbook, this coloring book teaches focus, symmetry, and emotional regulation—key components of a healthy learning environment. Mandala art promotes mindfulness, making it easier for inmates to study, process new information, and control emotional reactions.
🔹 Educational Value:
- Develops focus and visual-motor coordination
- Reduces anxiety, making learning easier
- Encourages meditative practice and self-discipline
Mindfulness is a foundational skill for emotional intelligence—an often-overlooked aspect of education.
6. Tattoo Coloring Book for Inmates
Creativity is a valuable form of intelligence. This coloring book engages inmates in visual storytelling through symbolic and cultural design. Many who use it begin to reflect on their own stories and identities.
🔹 Educational Value:
- Encourages symbolic thinking and interpretation
- Helps inmates explore personal narratives
- Introduces design, shape theory, and visual planning
This is an important tool for individuals interested in artistic trades or identity work.
7. Nature Scenes Coloring Book for Inmates
Nature has long been connected to cognitive clarity and mental balance. This book introduces calming, structured scenes that help inmates relax, which boosts their ability to concentrate and retain information.
🔹 Educational Value:
- Supports emotional regulation for better learning
- Encourages mindfulness and reflective thinking
- Creates a positive environment for reading and writing
It’s not just about knowledge—it's about creating the internal peace required to absorb it.
Education Creates Opportunity
Rehabilitation is about rebuilding, and education provides the foundation. With a stronger vocabulary, clearer communication, and better self-understanding, inmates become:
- Less likely to reoffend
- More likely to find stable employment
- More prepared to parent and support family
- Better equipped to engage in community life
Ordering from Corrections Bookstore
Corrections Bookstore is dedicated to providing facility-compliant books that serve as real tools for growth. Every book is carefully selected and shipped according to correctional policies.
How to order:
- Provide the inmate’s full name and DOC ID
- Enter the correct facility address
- Choose softcover books (as required by most prisons)
- Review our Shipping Policy for details
Final Thoughts
The key to reducing recidivism isn’t just punishment—it’s preparation. Education gives inmates the knowledge and confidence to make better choices, build careers, and reconnect with the world. Whether you're an inmate, a family member, or a case manager, investing in educational books is investing in long-term success.
📘 Explore the full collection:
🔗 Educational Books for Inmates
Corrections Bookstore – Empowering Change, One Book at a Time