51 pages • 1 hour read
Solitary
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Book Brief
320
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Louisiana • Late 20th century
2019
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Solitary by Albert Woodfox is a memoir recounting his experiences of over four decades in solitary confinement at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, known as Angola. Woodfox details how systemic racism and poverty led him into crime and how racist institutions prolonged his imprisonment. Supported by the Black Panther Party's principles, he survived the brutality of prison life and used his incarceration to fight for social justice, ultimately becoming part of the Angola 3. The book includes sensitive topics such as systemic racism, abuse, and violence.
Dark
Unnerving
Challenging
Melancholic
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
5,170 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Albert Woodfox's Solitary receives acclaim for its powerful, heartfelt narrative and compelling portrayal of resilience under extreme adversity. Critics highlight its insightful exploration of systemic injustice and human spirit. Some note its intense, graphic details may be overwhelming, but overall, it is lauded as a significant, eye-opening memoir.
Who Should Read Solitary?
Readers who relish gripping memoirs and social justice themes will cherish Solitary by Albert Woodfox. Comparable to Michelle Alexander's The New Jim Crow and Bryan Stevenson's Just Mercy, it appeals to those intrigued by wrongful imprisonment, resilience, and human rights advocacy.
5,170 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Herman Wallace
Herman Wallace
Wallace is a fellow member of the Angola 3 and Black Panther Party, who shared a friendship with Woodfox and spent decades in solitary confinement before passing away shortly after his release.
Robert King
Robert King
The third member of the Angola 3, who played a pivotal role in urging Woodfox and Wallace to appeal their convictions and continued to advocate against solitary confinement after his release.
320
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Louisiana • Late 20th century
2019
Adult
18+ years
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