Not on my watch book review

The memoir of Bob Hatrak the youngest warden of a maximum security prison in America Rahway State Prison now called East Jersey State Prison An inspirational story of how one man with great vision overcame personal adversity to become one of the most notable and progressive prison reformers of our time Together with his wife Joan Bob tells of his praiseworthy do it yourself approach In his personal life this mindset was evident in coping with a particularly difficult event after suffering from a major physical accident that would have permanent effects on his future In work this attitude was applied on a greater scale through the creation of programs where inmates were empowered to envision their path after incarceration and were given the choice to join self rehab groups that had positive effects both with the prison system for staff and inmates alike and for many on life on the outside Bob s insight and compassion were the driving force behind these various vocational training programs which most notably The Escorts a group of convicts who created various albums that collectively sold over 300000 copies and performed a sold out show at Newark New Jersey s Symphony Hall while incarcerated the Juvenile Awareness Program which subsequently earned an Academy Award for the Scared Straight Documentary film The documentary film features Rahway s Lifer s Group and the Boxing Association with a highlight of having a love HBO produced match at Rahway Prison featuring inmate James Scott in his rise to be the contender for the title of Light Heavyweight Champion of the World and was credited as one of the most unbelievable stories in all of boxing history Bob s story is personal. Not on my watch book review professional gut wrenching inspirational but most importantly a reminder that as a society we have a long way to travel on the path to justice equality and reform An engaging humane glimpse into a 1970s era prison The narrative doesn t shy away from disturbing stories of violent criminals but it ultimately affirms Bob Hatrak s belief in the humanity of the incarcerated and the power of second chances 5 5 Kirkus Quick engaging Not on My Watch makes Hatrak s upbringing as exciting as the prison reform stories that follow it a reminder of the difference dedicated people can make on issues of justice and equality Publishers Weekly Booklife So much is provided here lively eye opening and worthy of discussion on many different levels Midwest Book Review D. On my kindle not work Donovan Hatrak is justifiably famous for his reformation of the New Jersey prison system he also happens to be a talented writer with a story to tell The US Books of Review A memoir that regales the reader with the story of a man who would run one of the infamous correctional institutions in New Jersey if not the United States However Bob Hatrak s story does not dwell on the gratuitous or graphic in order to be a fantastic read Portland Book Review Not On My Watch A Beloved Prison Warden s 30 Year Fight For Justice In The Prison SystemIn Not On My Watch A Beloved Prison Warden s 30 Year Fight For Justice In The Prison System author and former prison warden Bob Hatrak shares his experiences at Rahway State Prison a maximum security facility in East New Jersey Hatrak known for his compassionate approach illustrates the power of empathy and reform in the often harsh environment of the penal system His commitment to the well being and rehabilitation of incarcerated individuals shines throughout the narrative. Why is epub not working Hatrak s journey is not just a tale of managing a prison but a deeper exploration of personal growth and the impact of life choices The book delves into how Hatrak s own experiences of overcoming adversity shape his empathetic approach to prison administration This personal touch adds a rich layer to the narrative making the reader appreciate the complexities of his role as a warden One of the book s most compelling aspects is Hatrak s advocacy for self rehabilitation a theme that resonates with those who believe in second chances and the potential for transformation Hatrak s belief in the power of vocational training programs as a tool for rehabilitation is particularly noteworthy The reader is introduced to groups like the Escorts and the Lifers whose stories exemplify the positive outcomes of such initiatives. Not on my watch trophy Hatrak s entrepreneurial spirit in pushing for progressive prison reform is both enlightening and inspirational His story is not just about managing a prison but about humanizing it making Not on My Watch a significant read for those interested in criminal justice reform and personal stories of resilience and compassion The book is recommended for readers seeking insight into the world of prison administration and the transformative power of empathy and progressive thinking in a challenging environment 9781940178691