Life behind bars is difficult, filled with challenges, regrets, and the struggle to move forward. For inmates, books are more than entertainment, they are lifelines. Books bring hope, strength, and purpose, helping incarcerated individuals cope with their circumstances, discover personal growth, and prepare for reentry into society.
At Corrections Books Store, we provide approved books for inmates that inspire, educate, and transform lives. If you’re looking for the perfect book to send to your loved one in prison, here are the top 10 must-read titles that every inmate can benefit from.
Why Sending Books to Inmates Matters
- Encourages Education & Growth – Books teach skills that prepare inmates for life after release.
- Provides Motivation & Inspiration – Self-help and spiritual titles inspire positive change.
- Reduces Stress & Loneliness – Reading provides a healthy escape and mental relief.
- Supports Reentry Success – Business, finance, and job-readiness books empower inmates for the future.
- Shows You Care – Sending a book strengthens family bonds and reminds loved ones they’re not forgotten.
Top 10 Books to Send an Inmate
1. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
This international bestseller has transformed millions of lives by teaching principles of personal effectiveness. Covey’s seven habits, including being proactive, putting first things first, and seeking win-win solutions, help readers take control of their lives and relationships.
Why It Resonates with Inmates:
Prisoners often feel powerless over their lives, but this book shows how small changes in mindset can create lasting transformation. For inmates, it serves as both a guide to self-discipline and a foundation for building a positive future after release.
2. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, recounts his time in Nazi concentration camps while exploring how finding meaning in suffering can lead to resilience. His philosophy of “logotherapy” teaches that even in the worst circumstances, life can have purpose.
Why It’s Important:
For inmates facing confinement and regret, Frankl’s story offers hope. It teaches them that pain and hardship don’t define them, they can still create meaning, strength, and hope behind bars.
3. Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
David Goggins’ memoir is raw and unfiltered, detailing his transformation from an abusive childhood and obesity into a Navy SEAL and ultra-endurance athlete. His lessons on accountability, toughness, and pushing through pain inspire readers to push beyond perceived limits.
Why Inmates Value It:
Prison demands resilience, and Goggins’ journey shows that mental toughness can overcome any obstacle. Inmates find strength in his story, learning to replace excuses with action and rise above hardship.
4. As a Man Thinketh by James Allen
Though short, this classic packs powerful lessons about how thoughts shape character, actions, and destiny. Allen emphasizes discipline, responsibility, and the transformative power of self-control.
Why It’s Inspiring:
For inmates, this book is a daily reminder that real change begins in the mind. It encourages reflection, self-awareness, and the building of positive mental habits that lead to growth.
5. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
Kiyosaki’s bestselling finance book contrasts the mindsets of the wealthy versus the poor, teaching the importance of assets, financial education, and independence. It shifts how readers view money and opportunities.
Why It Matters for Inmates:
Financial struggles often contribute to cycles of incarceration. This book gives inmates practical lessons on money management and building wealth, preparing them for financial independence after release.
6. The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
Structured as 40 daily chapters, this Christian guide helps readers discover spiritual meaning and purpose in life. It blends scripture with practical advice, reminding readers that they are created with intention.
Why Inmates Love It:
For prisoners who feel lost or hopeless, Warren’s words bring comfort and guidance. It reassures inmates that they are valuable and capable of building a meaningful life beyond prison walls.
7. The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason
Using parables set in ancient Babylon, this book teaches timeless lessons on saving, investing, and building wealth. Its storytelling style makes financial wisdom engaging and easy to remember.
Why It’s Practical:
Inmates benefit from its simple yet powerful teachings, learning how to manage money wisely and build a foundation for financial security after release.
8. The Autobiography of Malcolm X as told to Alex Haley
This influential memoir follows Malcolm X’s journey from a troubled youth and hustler into a global leader. His transformation began in prison, where he embraced education, faith, and self-discipline.
Why It’s Powerful:
For inmates, Malcolm’s story is proof that prison can be a turning point. His journey shows that knowledge and commitment can turn pain into purpose and lead to lasting change.
9. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Clear explains how small daily actions compound into massive change. His strategies help readers build new habits, break destructive ones, and create systems that drive success.
Why It’s Useful for Inmates:
Prison is built on routine, making it an ideal place to practice new habits. This book empowers inmates to take control of daily choices and prepare for success after release.
10. Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins
Robbins’ motivational classic teaches strategies for mastering emotions, improving relationships, managing finances, and shaping destiny. His step-by-step tools help readers unlock personal power.
Why It’s Inspiring:
For inmates, this book is a call to action. It empowers them to take back control of their lives and reminds them that no matter the past, the future can be rewritten.
How to Send Books to Inmates Through Corrections Bookstore
Prisons have strict rules for books, but Corrections Book Store makes the process simple and stress-free:
- Visit Corrections Book Store.
- Browse our categories: Motivational, Educational, Spiritual, Business, and Fiction.
- Add your selections to the cart.
- Provide the inmate’s full name, ID number, and facility address.
- Place your order—we ensure compliance with prison regulations so books are delivered without issues.
Why Choose Corrections Bookstore
- Approved vendor for correctional facilities nationwide
- Wide selection of motivational, legal, business, and educational titles
- Fast and reliable delivery directly to prisons
- Simple ordering process designed for families and friends
- Affordable pricing with no hidden costs
- Dedicated to supporting inmate education and personal growth
Contact Us
- Phone: 201.559.0592
- Email: info@correctionsbookstore.com
- Website: https://www.correctionsbookstore.com
We’re here to help inmates across the U.S. access the books they need to grow, heal, and prepare for a better life after release.
Final Thoughts
Books are more than just reading, they’re a path to hope, healing, and transformation. For inmates, titles like The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Man’s Search for Meaning, and The Autobiography of Malcolm X serve as powerful reminders that change is always possible.
At Corrections Book Store, we make it easy to send approved books directly to correctional facilities. Give your loved one the gift of growth, strength, and purpose today.
Corrections Bookstores 