Without minimizing the systemic injustices and disparities of mass incarceration, Gifts from the Dark challenges the mindset of incarceration as a solely one dimensional, deficit event. Instead, this book argues that the prison experience can potentially be one of transformational learning.

By Joni Schwartz and John R. Chaney

Part I: Adult Transformative Learning and the Prison Experience

Chapter 1: Prison Writing: A Literary Tradition

Chapter 2: Incarceration: The Disorienting Dilemma toward Transformation

Chapter 3: Transformation: A Brave Act

Chapter 4: Understanding the Role of Race and Gender

Part II: Learning that Transforms the Self

Chapter 5: Sitting with Yourself: Cells of Silence and Solitude

Chapter 6: The Organic Intellectual

Chapter 7: Higher & Continuing Education: Attracting the Best Students

Chapter 8: Exercising Body and Mind: Habits and Flow

Chapter 9: Emotional Intelligence and the Prison Experience

Part III: Learning in Relation to Others

Chapter 10: The Black Family and the Incarceration Experience

Chapter 11: The Prison Experience and Technology

Chapter 12: Non-verbal Communication

Part IV: Learning that Transforms the World

Chapter 13: Giving Back

Chapter 14: Criminal Justice Reform: Everyone's Responsibility