International Kindle Paperwhite
Kindle Unlimited
Unlimited reading. Over 5 million titles. Learn more
Read for Free
OR
$1.99 with 80 percent savings
Print List Price: $9.99

Promotions apply when you purchase

These promotions will be applied to this item:

Some promotions may be combined; others are not eligible to be combined with other offers. For details, please see the Terms & Conditions associated with these promotions.

Sold by Amazon.com Services LLC.
You've subscribed to ! We will preorder your items within 24 hours of when they become available. When new books are released, we'll charge your default payment method for the lowest price available during the pre-order period.
Update your device or payment method, cancel individual pre-orders or your subscription at
Your Memberships & Subscriptions

Buy as Gift

Buy as a gift or purchase for a team or group.
Learn more

How it works

  1. Choose your delivery method
  2. Send now or schedule for later
  3. Add your personal message
  4. Recipients can read on any device

These ebooks can only be redeemed by recipients in the US. Redemption links and eBooks cannot be resold.

Added to

Sorry, there was a problem.

There was an error retrieving your Wish Lists. Please try again.

Sorry, there was a problem.

List unavailable.
Kindle app logo image

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

QR code to download the Kindle App

  • Different Prisons

Follow the author

Get new release updates & improved recommendations
Dr. Thomas Davison
Follow
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.

Different Prisons Kindle Edition

by Dr. Thomas Davison (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.7 out of 5 stars (37)
Join the author as he takes you on an extraordinary journey into his intense world, teaching convicted felons inside two all-male state prisons in northern Ohio. The story Different Prisons is a collection of short stories, poetry, and anecdotes taken directly from the personal journals and unique experiences of Dr. Thomas Davison. This is real-life stuff, not the 'Hollywood version.' It will make you laugh, and it will make you cry ...

What do the readers have to say about Different Prisons?

A Journey You Never Expected to Take, But Will Cherish
I have loved this story so much. It will make you laugh cheer and cry. And what is so special is that you will meet and fall in love with the author along the way. I confess I have never spent much time thinking about the lives of prisoners, or caring either, but this story opens up that world and despite yourself you will care in a way you never have before. It’s rare, I think, that a book or story teaches you so much, including about yourself. Highly recommended. A must read.
I Truly Love This Story
I like watching movies about what life is like inside of prisons. But, I realize Hollywood tends to exaggerate things to make a film more exciting. So, I decided to try this non-fiction Vella written by a guy who teaches felons inside prisons. I love this story! It is so real. He gives the reader insight into the day-to-day life of a prisoner. I give this story my highest rating and recommend you try it, you will be hooked!
Fresh and New
This is the most honest look at life on the inside of a prison I have seen. The accounts are real, and so raw. They are honest and allow you to feel everything the author and his students feel. A story filled with insights into somewhere most of us will never go. Well worth your time and a gripping read.
A Story That Enlightens You
I've become enlightened by the stories of those who are/were incarcerated for whatever reason. I'm inspired by those who chose to better themselves while serving the sentence they been given. Yes, I believe most everything is a choice. A choice to do what is right, a choice to take the higher path, a choice to believe the best of others. Doctor D's experiences show what society may say is irredeemable truly is if one only provides guidance to the light.
A Powerful and Deeply Moving Story
It's wonderful how you created Writing and Reading Clubs inside the Prisons where you worked.Bravo! Doctor D. You offer so much interesting insight into prison life. I respect what you do so much. What a great story and Journey this is.I agree that respect is the core of so many things in life. I can only imagine how important respect must be for the convicted felons. I love your addition of prison-themed poems. They are so raw and moving. I know exactly what you mean when you talk about different kinds of prisons. I have imprisoned myself with negativity. Your ability to struggle through to reach these men is inspiring to read. How lucky those guys in prison are to have someone like you to teach and guide them. If one man finds a new life after prison because of what he learned from you, then that one man is reward enough for anyone. Your heart for education and service is crystal clear and what you have to share is so appreciated.I have learned so much about the life of inmates. Thank you for sharing this amazing story!
Read more
Previous slide of product details
  1. Print length
    331 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Accessibility
    Learn more
  4. Publication date
    July 3, 2024
  5. File size
    17.3 MB
  6. Page Flip
    Enabled
  7. Word Wise
    Enabled
  8. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
Next slide of product details
Due to its large file size, this book may take longer to download

Great on Kindle
Great Experience. Great Value.
iphone with kindle app
Putting our best book forward
Each Great on Kindle book offers a great reading experience, at a better value than print to keep your wallet happy.

Explore your book, then jump right back to where you left off with Page Flip.

View high quality images that let you zoom in to take a closer look.

Enjoy features only possible in digital – start reading right away, carry your library with you, adjust the font, create shareable notes and highlights, and more.

Discover additional details about the events, people, and places in your book, with Wikipedia integration.
Get the free Kindle app: Link to the kindle app page Link to the kindle app page
Enjoy a great reading experience when you borrow the Kindle edition of this book with your Kindle Unlimited membership. Learn more about Great on Kindle, available in select categories.

Customers also bought or read

Page 1 of 1Start over
Previous page
  13. Book cover Imaginary Things, Kindle Unlimited
    Imaginary Things
    Kindle Edition
    $7.99
  14. Book cover Dead Beach, Kindle Unlimited
    Dead Beach
    Kindle Edition
    $0.99
  16. Book cover From August To November, Kindle Unlimited
    From August To November
    Kindle Edition
    $0.99
  22. Book cover Breathing for Both of Us, Kindle Unlimited
    Breathing for Both of Us
    Kindle Edition
    $4.49
  28. Book cover Crossing Day, Kindle Unlimited
    Crossing Day
    Kindle Edition
    $0.99
Next page
Loading...

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D8V88VGL
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Cosmic Chipmunk Production
  • Accessibility ‏ : ‎ Learn more
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ July 3, 2024
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 17.3 MB
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 331 pages
  • Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Best Sellers Rank: #1,478,838 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 out of 5 stars (37)

About the author

Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Dr. Thomas Davison

Dr. Thomas Davison

Brief content visible, double tap to read full content.
Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

AUTHOR BIO

Dr. Thomas Davison has taught college coursework inside two State Prisons in Ohio for the past eight years. His observations and interactions with his incarcerated students have deeply moved him. This motivated him to create poems and short stories about their daily lives and experiences. Thomas has recently started a not-for-profit Entrepreneur Services for Felons (ESF). He has dedicated 100% of his writing earnings to providing free one-on-one support services for felons and ex-felons. Dr. Davison has created two Writing Clubs within the prisons. These incarcerated students are his beta readers to ensure he speaks in their voice and keeps it honest.

Recently published novels:

The Boy With Strange Eyes

YA Fantasy, Voted by the readers as the best story Across all genres. The # 1 Champion of the Kindle Vella Writers Tournament!

Different Prisons

Biographies and Memoirs, Non-Fiction, The amazing true story of the eight years Dr. Davison spent face-to-face inside the prisons, teaching felons!

How To Write a Winning Dissertation

Academic Writing, Use this easy to understand guide, which includes best practices 'crib sheets,' to create a powerful and successful Doctorial dissertation!

Coming Soon! Dr. Davison's debut horror novel, New Beginnings: A Story in The Cthulhu Mythos...

Related books

Page 1 of 1Start Over
Sponsored
Previous page
  1. Shop the Store on Amazon ›
    More Than a Hashtag
    More Than a Hashtag
    4.44.4 out of 5 stars67
    $5.99 Print List Price:$16.99
  2. Shop the Store on Amazon ›
    Lost in Time
    Lost in Time
    4.44.4 out of 5 stars25,794
    $9.24
  3. Shop the Store on Amazon ›
    Lost in Time
    Lost in Time
    4.44.4 out of 5 stars25,794
    $9.24
Next page

Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
37 global ratings

Customers say

Customers find the book thought-provoking, with one review noting how it provides insight into life behind bars. The narrative is engaging, with one customer highlighting how the journal entries and poetry enrich the story.
AI Generated from the text of customer reviews

Select to learn more

6 customers mention content, 6 positive, 0 negative
Customers appreciate the book's content, with one review highlighting its powerful testaments and insightful commentaries, while another notes how it provides an educational perspective on the potential of incarcerated individuals.
...the interior structure of the prison system is astounding and eye-opening....Read more
...short stories are infused with emotive self-reflections, insightful commentaries, witty imprisonment-related quotes, engaging background stories,...Read more
...Davison's stories are raw and unromanticized, giving insight into life behind bars and the connections he was able to form with his students....Read more
...There are indeed many layers to the justice system and the many individuals that are a part of that system and Mr. Thomas Davison has indeed...Read more
6 customers mention engaging, 6 positive, 0 negative
Customers find the book engaging, describing it as a fantastic read that had them hooked from the first page.
...real look into the lives of incarcerated men in this compelling memoir. Having spent years in the education system....Read more
This book had me hooked from the first page....Read more
...A fantastic read.Read more
In "Different Prisons" the author offers a deeply compelling and unflinchingly honest portrayal of life behind bars, making it perhaps one of the...Read more
5 customers mention narrative, 4 positive, 1 negative
Customers enjoy the narrative of the book, with one mentioning how the journal entries and poetry enrich the storytelling, while another notes the raw nature of the stories.
...insightful commentaries, witty imprisonment-related quotes, engaging background stories, and rich autobiographical elements in the many “about/from...Read more
...He also includes the touching work of some of his students. Davison's stories are raw and unromanticized, giving insight into life behind bars and...Read more
...His journal entries and poetry enrich the narrative, allowing the experience of profound emotional depths and personal victories of his students....Read more
...That Doctor D is a very good writer! The story jumps around a lot and as the author speaks directly to the reader often, you are forewarned about...Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Laura M
    5.0 out of 5 stars A compelling memoir
    Reviewed in the United States on July 25, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Davison gives an unflinchingly real look into the lives of incarcerated men in this compelling memoir. Having spent years in the education system. former college professor Thomas Davison fears growing bored during his retirement years. On a leap of faith, he accepts a teaching position to teach college classes at a prison in northern Ohio. In "Different Prisons" Davison recounts personal stories and poems from his time teaching. He also includes the touching work of some of his students. Davison's stories are raw and unromanticized, giving insight into life behind bars and the connections he was able to form with his students. Davidson's determination to help his students is admirable and this collection helps to break the stereotypes associated with prisoners.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Adrienne
    5.0 out of 5 stars A view into a different world and very well written
    Reviewed in the United States on August 16, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    This was very well written and I enjoyed it very much. That Doctor D is a very good writer! The story jumps around a lot and as the author speaks directly to the reader often, you are forewarned about this. Despite that, I had no trouble following along and getting immersed in the story that Dr. Davison was trying to tell. It's not a story in the traditional sense, but a series of snippets depicting his experience while working as a teacher in prisons. You'll feel a mix of emotions reading this but overall you will find yourself wanting to meet the author. He sounds like a person worth meeting.

    I enjoyed the mix of poetry and short story telling and how the author kept talking directly to the reader. It made reading this not only quick but kept everything interesting as Davison tries to convey his experience as best he could. I would be very interested in reading more about his experience and the students he has gotten to work with.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Alejandro Soto
    4.0 out of 5 stars Walls Within: A chronicle on redemptive education
    Reviewed in the United States on September 22, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Thomas Davison's Different Prisons offers a deeply personal and unvarnished exploration of prison life, drawn from his experiences as a teacher of convicted felons in northern Ohio. Through a compilation of short stories, poems, and anecdotes, Davison provides raw, candid portrayals of the daily struggles, humour, and humanity of those behind bars. This collection, which departs from the sensationalized depictions of prison life, brings to light the emotional complexities of inmates striving for self-improvement and redemption, presenting readers with a poignant glimpse into a world most never encounter.

    What stands out most in Davison’s work is its verisimilitude. The heartfelt reflections on his students’ resilience, particularly in the writing and reading clubs he facilitated, are powerful testaments to the transformative potential of education. His journal entries and poetry enrich the narrative, allowing the experience of profound emotional depths and personal victories of his students. Although some could argue this heterodoxic approach severs the book's uniformity, the fragmented quality of Different Prison resembles life in prison, as contradictory and detached as it gets.

    Davison’s storytelling is an invitation to reconsider preconceived notions of the incarcerated, portraying them not as unsalvageable individuals, but as complex human beings, perhaps capable of change. His emphasis on respect, self-reflection, and education offers an insightful perspective on the potential. A fantastic read.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Antony Wairiuko (Author of Kiss Me Goodbye: Darkie Series #1)
    5.0 out of 5 stars DIFFERENT PRISONS IS A COMPELLING PUNITIVE-AND-REHABILITATIVE TAPESTRY
    Reviewed in the United States on September 10, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Different Prisons is a 261-page, July 2024 non-fiction book by Dr. Thomas Davison who also appears in the plot as Doctor D.

    The U.S. prison systems-oriented book has 64 subtitled chapters whose ekphrastic and free-verse poems, proems, and multi-genred short stories are infused with emotive self-reflections, insightful commentaries, witty imprisonment-related quotes, engaging background stories, and rich autobiographical elements in the many “about/from the author” sections.

    It is based on the well-rounded Dr. Davison’s careers over the years—including his public service stints—achievements, initiatives, successful writing ambitions, and both his personal and others’ life experiences, particularly those of his imprisoned learners.

    All along, the book’s guiding and thought-provoking questions keep the reader on a par with the author’s first-person narrative of his first-hand experiences, while the hints about the following sections pique the reader’s curiosity.

    I especially liked how Davison found himself “teaching inside a prison” and his vivid recounts of teaching “on the inside” amid concerns from his loved ones. I also liked the ethical philosophy-related discussions, particularly the debate with the repentant Mr. X in chapters 9 and 10, that prompted the adamant Dr. D. to re-think his utilitarianism arguments.

    The insider’s objective viewpoint of the prison system and the diverse tales from/about the prison staff and its unlucky lot will open your eyes to untold or oftentimes sugarcoated stories. In essence, Different Prisons is an expose that compels that reader—on learning about the best and worst of prisons—to take sides in the arguable punitive-or-rehabilitative nature of prisons.

    With authoritative references and compelling inferences, the literary device-rich Different Prisons-- alludes to his other literary works for emphasis—is an eye-opener for its engaging tapestry: redemption, ethics, inmates’ personal preferences, heroism in the face of adversity, life lessons, virtues, vices, optimism, esteem, dignity, discipline, manliness, commitment, volunteerism, charity work, liberalism, (in)tolerance, professional development, soul searching, and mortal concerns.
    Helpful
     Report

Top reviews from other countries

  • Aditya
    5.0 out of 5 stars A Wonderful Book!
    Reviewed in India on July 19, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    "Different Prisons" by Dr. Thomas Davison is a compelling and transformative read that offers a deeply authentic glimpse into the lives of incarcerated individuals in northern Ohio. Through a blend of short stories, poetry, and personal anecdotes, Davison's raw and unfiltered narrative captures the daily struggles, fears, and occasional moments of hope experienced by prisoners.

    The book's strength lies in its authenticity. Davison's firsthand experiences and heartfelt writing draw readers into a world often misunderstood or ignored. The emotional depth and vivid storytelling make it easy to empathize with both the author and his students, showcasing the humanity behind the bars. The addition of prison-themed poems adds a unique and moving layer to the narrative, highlighting the inmates' desire for redemption and self-expression.

    However, the book is not without its flaws. The structure, with its scattered journal entries, poems, and short stories, can sometimes feel disjointed, making it challenging to follow a continuous storyline. Additionally, while the personal anecdotes are compelling, they occasionally lack broader context or critical analysis, leaving readers wanting more insight into the prison system itself.

    Despite these minor issues, "Different Prisons" remains a powerful and thought-provoking read. Davison's candid portrayal of prison life challenges preconceived notions and underscores the transformative power of education and human connection. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the realities of incarceration and the potential for redemption within prison walls.

    Thank you
    Happy Reading
    Report
  • Lizzy
    5.0 out of 5 stars Compelling
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 1, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Different Prisons is a collection of poetry, short stories, and anecdotes written to give a raw and honest portrayal of what life is like inside State prisons. Through the author's journey, we learn how one person can change someone else's life and perhaps even set them on a better path.

    The author tells of how he began teaching within State prisons and delivers a colourful, impactful, and compelling portrayal of the reality of a felon's life behind bars. The author does this by alternating between short stories and poetry.

    Although different, the poetry and short stories compliment each other well throughout the book. Through the stories, we learn of the author's experiences of being inside prisons, such as violence, hierarchy, general happenings, and how one person can change the life of another completely. The poetry adds layers to all this through the vivid and emotional imagery employed. It is soulful, honest, and reflective.

    I highly recommend this book as it is a very compelling read.
    Report
  • Viga Boland, author No Tears for my Father
    5.0 out of 5 stars QUITE A SURPRISE FOR VARIOUS REASONS
    Reviewed in Canada on October 6, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    It’s always good to start reading a book and get more from it than you thought you would. I was saddened to learn that 80% or more of prison inmates were abused as children and most grew up without fathers. Perhaps that’s why they responded so well to Dr. Davidson: he was a father-figure who treated them with respect. Some of the tributes written about Dr. Davidson by the inmates must have made him feel well-rewarded for his efforts with them. The author also shared some of his poignant poetry with readers. Most surprising to me was the author’s approach to writing this book: he used Amazon’s Vella program. Most intriguing…and it worked.
    Report
  • Muhammed
    4.0 out of 5 stars An Amazing Book
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 9, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    In Different Prisons, the author delivers an intensely compelling and candid portrayal of life behind bars, arguably creating one of the most authentic narratives of prison existence to date. The stories presented are strikingly real and authentic. One amazing thing is that the author knows how to carry the readers along in all his narrations.

    In the book, Dr. Thomas explains the different sexualities in prisons, the plight and experiences of felons, and shares a remarkable part which narrates the story of Polly. Also, he includes Tom's Personal Credo, which can be applied to real-life situations.

    The author's voice is raw and sincere, sparing no detail as they guide readers through the brutal realities of prison life. Through Dr. Thomas's perspective and those of the inmates, readers gain a profound understanding of the daily struggles, fears, and occasional glimpses of hope that define life within prison walls. The emotions are vivid and tangible, allowing readers to deeply empathize with the author and their peers as they navigate this harsh environment.

    The author even adds prison-themed poems, which are soulful and remarkable. The teachings of Dr. Thomas are indeed a blessing to the inmates' lives and even more beneficial for those who later gain freedom. It is apparent that Dr. Thomas Davison has a great passion for teaching and promoting good human behaviors. This book is a great read overall.
    Report
  • Beatrice Manuel
    4.0 out of 5 stars A profound and heartfelt exploration of the prison system
    Reviewed in India on August 17, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    "Different Prisons" by Dr. Thomas Davison is a profound and heartfelt exploration of the prison system through the eyes of someone who's truly been in the trenches. It's a raw and sincere collection of short stories, poetry, and personal anecdotes drawn directly from Dr. Davison’s own experiences and journals. The author’s candid approach to the realities of incarceration provides a unique and often eye-opening perspective on a world most of us know little about.

    What stands out in "Different Prisons" is the way Dr. Davison doesn’t just focus on the physical prisons but also the mental and emotional ones. He sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of incarcerated individuals—the mental health challenges, the isolation, and the deep-seated fears that persist even behind bars. The book goes beyond just telling stories, it delves into the humanity of those whom society has largely forgotten, showing that with the right support and opportunities, these individuals can contribute positively to society.

    Dr. Davison's narrative style is both engaging and relatable. The book also doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of prison life. Dr. Davison’s accounts of gangs, violence, and the pervasive use of drugs within the prison system are laid bare, without sugar-coating. These are the kinds of details that stick with you, making you rethink your preconceptions about what life is really like behind those walls.

    Interspersed throughout the book are prison-themed poems that add an extra layer of emotion and insight. These poems are soulful and poignant, giving readers a glimpse into the inner world of both the author and the inmates he works with. They serve as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, even in the darkest of places.

    However, "Different Prisons" isn’t without its flaws. The lack of continuity might make it challenging for some readers to follow along. The positioning of the poems may also lack the structure you get from a typical read.

    Despite these minor issues, "Different Prisons" is a powerful and thought-provoking read. Dr. Davison’s portrayal of prison life is unflinchingly honest, and his dedication to teaching and helping others is truly inspiring. This book will leave you with a deeper understanding of the people behind bars and the complex world they inhabit.
    Report
See more reviews

Report an issue


Does this item contain inappropriate content?
Report
Do you believe that this item violates a copyright?
Report
Does this item contain quality or formatting issues?
Report