Tell It Slant

An Anthology of Creative nonfiction by Writers from Colorado's Prisons

Julie Rada

In the hauntingly evocative collection Tell It Slant: An Anthology of Creative Nonfiction by Writers from Colorado's Prisons, editor Julie Rada invites you to step into a world that many would prefer to turn away from-our prison system. This anthology is not merely a compilation of stories; rather, it is a raw, visceral exploration of human experience written by those who have often been silenced. Each page, teeming with authenticity, rips apart the facade of everyday life and exposes the deeper truths that reside within us all, particularly in the shadowy corners of incarceration.

What makes this book truly compelling is not just its content, but the voices behind the words. The authors-individuals incarcerated in Colorado-each bring forth their own battles, heartbreaks, and triumphs. They are not mere statistics or faceless offenders; they are storytellers, weaving their narratives with the kind of poetic resilience that can only come from surviving life's most harrowing challenges. By giving them a platform, Rada transforms their lived experiences into art, reminding us that every story deserves to be heard, regardless of the circumstances that birthed it.

The poignant reflections and heart-wrenching truths presented in this anthology can make the most stoic of hearts ache. You will meet a myriad of characters that linger in your mind long after the final page is turned. These are individuals grappling with guilt, longing for redemption, and striving for connection in isolation. Readers have shared mixed feelings about the anthology; some hail it as a groundbreaking work that confronts societal norms about crime and punishment, while others find it challenging to digest the blunt reality presented. This duality of response highlights the power of storytelling-the ability to evoke empathy while also provoking discomfort.

The anthology's strength lies in its diversity of narratives; each piece is a reflection of the author's unique journey within and beyond prison walls. For instance, the visceral imagery and emotional depth found in these personal accounts can stir feelings of anger, sadness, and ultimately, hope. As one reader eloquently put it, "It's a reminder that we all have shadows, and that understanding them is the key to compassion."

However, amidst the praise, criticisms arise. Some readers argue that the raw, unfiltered nature of these writings can be jarring, challenging the boundaries of conventional narrative forms. Nevertheless, this is exactly what makes the collection indispensable; it rattles the cages of complacency, urging us to confront uncomfortable truths about our justice system and societal perceptions of rehabilitation.

In a world that often seeks to erase uncomfortable narratives, Tell It Slant emerges as a revolutionary act of storytelling. It stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit-the ability to communicate and connect through the written word, even from behind bars. As you delve into these pages, you'll find yourself traversing the murky waters of despair and hope, inevitably questioning your preconceptions about justice, humanity, and forgiveness.

In a time when empathy seems in short supply, this anthology does not allow you to look away. Instead, it compels you to engage, to reflect, and most importantly, to feel. So, take a leap into this compelling collection-allow it to shake your foundations and ignite a fire within you to advocate for those whose voices have been muffled. This isn't just a book; it's an urgent call for solidarity and understanding in a fractured world. Don't miss it. 🌟

📖 Tell It Slant: An Anthology of Creative nonfiction by Writers from Colorado's Prisons

✍ by Julie Rada

🧾 284 pages

2021

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