Rating: 
Summary: Anguished, yet Optimistic; Angry, yet Forgiving; PROFOUND
Review: Having myself been at one time a skeptic of Peltier's fantastic claims, I became convinced of his innocence after poring over the considerable & incontrovertible evidence that clearly proves this man is a victim of political repression. But this book is only secondarily about how Peltier was purposely made a scapegoat by an out-of-control, Gestapo-esque FBI, and by a few unscrupulous scoundrels within Department of Justice [sic]. (That astonshing, disturbing history has been recounted elsewhere, e.g., "In the Spirit of Crazy Horse" or "Agents of Repression".)Instead, in "Prison Writings" Peltier focuses more on the continuing historical struggle of his people to be treated with dignity and equality; offers insights into the realities of contemporary Indian existence beyond the sham portrayals in popular culture; and shows how his perceptions and opinions have been molded by his own experiences, from childhood to the starkness of prison life. To be honest, I had not expected Peltier's book to be so well written, profound, and powerful; after all, Peltier's involvement with the American Indian Movement was not that of a fiery public speaker, decision-maker, or clever stager of outrageous stunts for the media (like some of AIM's leaders). Instead, Peltier's work with AIM was characterized by his preference to quietly perform the unglamorous yet neccessary tasks to serve his people (e.g., hauling water to homes with no plumbing, making home repairs, babysitting, fixing cars, chastising teenagers to be abstinent from alcohol and drugs, chopping firewood, etc). Yet despite his humble background and his avoid-the-limelight personality, Peltier's eloquence, wit/humor, irony, and heart-wrenching passion displayed in this book, betrays a depth of clear-thinking, maturity, and courage that is seldom seen in our world. After reading his book, it is no wonder that among all the infighting and divisions within AIM, it was Peltier who was universally trusted and respected by all those in the movement, and admired by the common people for whom he has now sacrificed most of his life to serve and protect. From one of justice's greatest tragedies comes this powerful offering of wisdom, and an indictment of the fallacy of "The Great American Dream".
Rating: 
Summary: Check out extraordinary CD based on the book
Review: Hi, this is Harvey Arden, Leonard's editor. I bring to your attention that a dramatic reading from the book has been made into a CD with wonderfully evocative accompaniment by Cherokee jazz-bluesman Reverend Goat Carson and transcendental guitarist George Inmire. You can catch the CD right here under Music on Amazon.com.
Rating:
Summary: AIM
Review: I have read every (just about) American Indian book that has meaning and truth to it. Leonard Peltier is a man who means a lot to just about every Indian and every non Indian who knows his story. I would do some online research about him and what was going in South Dakota during the 70s prior to this book in order to understand the magnatude of BS this man has endured (not only him but American Indians as well). He tells his story, his feelings and his thoughts. He had my upmost respect prior to reading this book and this book has helped me "get to know" him.
It's a great book. You won't be disappointed.
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Summary: Excellant book!!! Free Leonard Peltier Now!!
Review: I have read this book and I have cried, Like with Leonard Ihave felt many emotions, I am Indian, yet our people are still treatedin this way why?? It is time for The White Government to wake up and see what they are doing to Innocent men like Leonard Peltier. This was one of the best Books I have ever read, It will tear at your heart, it will anger you, and it will depress you. Buy this book, read it, wake up and do something to help. We stand beside you my Brother Leonard!!!! IN THE SPIRT OF CRAZY HORSE!!! and IN THE SPIRT OF LEONARD PELTIER!!!! WE ARE STILL HERE!!!! END
Rating:
Summary: very moving
Review: I liked this book very much, I learned about his childhood, and the harsh realities of the rez. I felt like he was right in front of me telling his story it was so real. I could almost feel his feelings...and his pain... great stuff. It made me laugh and cry and feel and think. This book is good medicine for the spirit..
Rating:
Summary: The American Mandela
Review: I strongly encourage my students to read this book. Essentially, it contains "The American Mandela's" story mixed with his poetry and obeservations on the Native American struggle. All I can say about this powerful book is to read it. It will make you think. If you beleive that there are no more true heroes and people willing to uncompromisingly stand up for what they beleive, then you're in for a surprise. Free Leonard!
Rating:
Summary: Unforgettable and compassionate
Review: Leonard Peltier, a Native American prisoner, paints a picture of his life in the "iron lodge", and gives us a window in to his soul. He is at times angry, mystical, and compassionate, and the images he presents are so real you can almost see and feel them for yourself. I have studied this case for many years and I say now more than ever: Free Leonard Peltier, and free him NOW.
Rating:
Summary: wonderful
Review: Never read anything like this. Cost me only 2 days but I wished it could be more. Everyone should read this and everyone should know about Peltier and the whole case. Peltier must be freed today and not tomorrow and we all must continue to fight for this freedom!!
Rating:
Summary: WHERE IS THE JUSTICE?
Review: Not sure, 'coz the prez. doesn't answer e-mails about it.
FREE LEONARD PELTIER.
Rating:
Summary: Inspiring- I Simply Could Not Put this Book Down
Review: One summer day I found myself to be extremely bored, so I ventured to my local bookstore hoping to find something worth reading. Suddenly, a book caught my eye, that being "Prison Writings" The grey cover blended in with the shelves, yet the book stood out on its own. I immediately picked it up. It took me about 4 hours to read. I began to think long and hard, it only took four hours to give me a completely different perspective on life, thanks to the inspiring accounts of Leonard Peltier. Peltier has experienced horror, disappointment, racism, and stripped of his rights, yet this book has an uncanny sensitivity to it, he is not bitter. Rather, he accounts his shortcomings extensively with a tone of hope throughout the book. Peltier goes into great detail about the fateful June 26 1975 on his Pine Ridge reservation. He was led to escape by following an eagle, showing the spirtuality of the Natives that is often supressed. He also discusses the coercion of the FBI which eventually led to his arrest, and instead of being bitter, he shares his pain with the families of the killed FBI agents. This token of character demonstrates how courageous Peltier is, and why he is a hero to many. Unfortunately former President Clinton refused to pardon Peltier, which is yet another disappointment. Yet he still has hope and shows great appreciation to his fellow supporters. Simply put: "Prison Writings" is a detailed and enlightening account of the life of Leonard Peltier. Furthermore, it reveals his indestructible character and love for his people. Instead of writing a book to complain (which too many people do) he stays bold, strong, courageous, and hopeful of the future of himself and his people, therby making him a hero and his book an inspiring and unique read.
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