Shakespeare Saved My Life: Ten Years in Solitary with the Bard is a poignant memoir by Laura Bates, published in 2013. The book chronicles Bates's transformative experience teaching Shakespeare to prison inmates, particularly focusing on Larry Newton, a convicted murderer serving a life sentence. Bates, initially teaching freshman English, recognizes the lack of educational opportunities for inmates in the supermax unit and seeks to offer Shakespeare as a way to engage and educate these overlooked individuals. Through their collaboration on Shakespeare workbooks, Bates discovers the profound impact of literature on her students, particularly Larry, who credits Shakespeare with saving his life during a desperate time in solitary confinement. As she navigates the challenges of the prison education system, Bates highlights the broader implications of Shakespeare’s works on self-reflection, personal growth, and the potential for change among inmates. While the program gains recognition, Bates faces setbacks, including funding cuts for prisoner education. However, the lasting effects of her initiative resonate with both students and staff, demonstrating the enduring power of literature to foster understanding and transformation. The memoir has been praised for its insight and impact, inspiring others to initiate similar educational programs for incarcerated individuals.
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