Editors Norris and Rothman, a law professor and history professor, respectively, put together a team of scholars to trace the rise and development of the prison and the changes that have occurred over the centuries. The first section details the history of the prison, beginning with ancient Greece and Rome. Although providing insight as to how criminals were punished through the ages, it primarily focuses on the rise of the prison in England and the United States. Unfortunately, there are several flaws with this section. While it explains prison development in continental Europe, its coverage is too sketchy. Also, there is little mention of penal reforms of the last 20 years. The second part, which deals with themes, is stronger. It discusses the development of Australia from the prison colony, women in prison over the ages, juvenile delinquency, development of the local jail, and political prisoners. The volume's other strengths include the extensive chapter bibliographies and the illustrations throughout. This book deserves to be on the shelves of academic libraries and, yes, prison libraries. (Index not seen.)?Michael Sawyer, Clinton P.L., Ia.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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