Elizabeth R. (esjro) -
This quick read describes the author's experiences while working for a year at a mental institution where people convicted of crimes but deemed to be insane are housed by the state of California. The patients are murderers, rapists, etc. Yet they can occasionally be charming and shoot some mad hoops (no pun intended).
The patients are fascinating, and I closed this book with a deep appreciation of people who can work in this environment. However, my enjoyment of the book was hindered by the fact that I did not care for the author much. He just didn't seem like a very compassionate person, and towards the end he reveals that he has some issues of his own.
Nonetheless, Behind the Gates is a fascinating peek into a dark but fascinating world.
The patients are fascinating, and I closed this book with a deep appreciation of people who can work in this environment. However, my enjoyment of the book was hindered by the fact that I did not care for the author much. He just didn't seem like a very compassionate person, and towards the end he reveals that he has some issues of his own.
Nonetheless, Behind the Gates is a fascinating peek into a dark but fascinating world.
