Darwin E. Coon (1933–2011)

Like most, I picked this book up while doing a day tour on Alcatraz. It was my second trip, and I enjoyed it every bit as much as I did the first time. Last time I was there I picked up a copy of Battle At Alcatraz by Ernest Lageson, the son of a warden. This time, I thought I would read something actually written by a prisoner.

Alcatraz: The True End of the Line was simply written, direct and honest and straight to the point. I just wish it had been a little longer and a little more detailed, as his stories were interesting but just felt as if they could have been elaborated on a little more.… (plus d'informations)

I had the pleasure of meeting Darwin Coon at the gift shop on Alcatraz and he signed a copy of this book. I spoke with him for a while, asked various questions. I certainly wish I had read the book before our meeting, as I would have had much more interesting questions for him and myself. The book is about redemption and incarceration after a life filled with criminal activity. Darwin Coon is an example of how prison can help reform a man. It may take many years, but eventually most people find their inner truth. Darwin Coon story touched me because he eventually found joy and peace in his life by being of service to others. A successful marriage, loving father and family man to almost 100 foster children. It's is sad that this man couldn't have straightened out his life before all the pain and isolation he brought on himself. Very interesting, short book. Fact: Darwin Coon is one of only 5 inmates from Alcatraz still alive. (as of 1.3.10).… (plus d'informations)

This is a short book which I read because I had recently toured Alcatraz. Coon was signing copies in the gift shop on the island. The book however is very interesting. It gives and first hand account of his life, his criminal history and his life in Alcatraz. The first two are more interesting than the last however that is not Coon's fault. Alcatraz was designed to "reform" or break a man by isolation and routine. The cells were small and the opportunities to meet inmates were limited to meals if you weren't favored with a job. It is quite arguable that by today's standards, the inmates' treatment would be considered torture.

This book won't take long to read but is definitely worth it.… (plus d'informations)

This is an autobiography of a bank robber who was incarcerated in Alcatraz for four years, until it was decommissioned as a prison. His story is told simply, directly, and without embellishment. There are very few "amusing anecdotes" and it is clear that it is a story told by the narrator of something that happened long ago. He does not put in conversation or excess description, and the long days of sameness telescope into a few pages. There is no "you are there" feeling, but rather a matter-of-factness to his style that reads very quickly.… (plus d'informations)