Customer Reviews
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4 out of 5 stars
By
Jeffrey
on
10-19-03
A Worthwhile Listen
As an American who doesn't really follow British politics, I have to admit general ignorance about the details of Jeffrey Archer's case when I saw this book listed on Audible.com's site. A little internet research turned up his story, and the fact that he had just recently been released from prison. Sounded interesting, and so I ordered it. First off, the narrative is outstanding, and brings to life Archer's story. As to the content, it was very good. Not outstanding, but very good. Archer has a very readable (or listenable in this case) style, which gives one a feel of what it was like for a man used to rubbing elbows with England's aristocracy to end up among murderers, drug dealers, and rapists. Writing in diary format is not alway easy, but Archer pulls it off. And again, Martin Jarvis's narrative, down to the voices he used to imitate the other prisoners, added to the story. On the downside, Archer clearly had a political axe to grind, directing comments on his perceived atrocities of the British penal system to "Mr. Home Secretary." That notwithstanding, much lucid insight into what it means to go without something many of us take for granted - our personal freedom.
Recommended.
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36 of 36 people found this review helpful
4 out of 5 stars
By
Jean
on
06-06-13
A trip to jail
I have read a number of Jeffrey Archer books over the years and also knew he was a member of the House of Lords and a politician but was unaware he was sent to prison. Like many of the other readers I looked up to learn about his crimes. This book is book one of a series of four books in the Prison Diary series. I found it interesting and was surprised at his treatment by the other prisoners and staff. The day to day life of prison was enlightening as well as how many were there because of drugs. I could understand Archers point when he would write attention Mr. Home Secretary even though it could be considered self serving. I also noted how many of the prisoners said they would just take their punishment and get on with life. I am impressed that on his release that Archer is busy campaigning for prison reform. Martin Jarvis did a great job reading this book. Enjoyed the book and learned a lot.
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12 of 12 people found this review helpful
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful
4 out of 5 stars
By
Cromwell
on
05-01-15
Not the full story
This book only deals with Bellmarsh so I felt a little short changed. I was anxious to learn about the authors full spell inside.
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2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5 out of 5 stars
By
Phil
on
10-09-17
fascinating and entertaining
this audiobook only covers Jefferies experience in Belmarsh......
spoke to someone who had a book of it and there was more in open prisons
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1 of 1 people found this review helpful