Update: We’re excited to announce Bill Keller will be joining for the first half of the book club!
February 11 | 12:00–1:00 PM | Virtual on Zoom
About the Book Club
Join the Montana Innocence Project for a lunchtime conversation about What’s Prison For?: Punishment and Rehabilitation in the Age of Mass Incarceration by Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Bill Keller.
Keller examines the “incarceration” part of mass incarceration—how our prisons waste lives and money while deepening poverty, trauma, and disconnection. He also spotlights programs and reform efforts that focus on rehabilitation, skill-building, and humanity.
Keller’s central question—what if prison actually prepared people for life beyond its walls?—is one that resonates deeply with the Montana Innocence Project’s mission and vision for justice.
This book challenges us to rethink the purpose of incarceration and consider what real rehabilitation could look like for individuals, families, and communities here in Montana and across the nation.
Why This Conversation Matters
We believe that change begins with understanding.
This discussion invites supporters, advocates, and other curious minds to come together around questions at the heart of our work:
- What is the role of prison in our communities?
- How do we create conditions for accountability, growth, and healing?
- What models for rehabilitation are already making a difference?
Read or Listen
Click here for hardcover/ebook available from multiple retailers.
Click here for the audiobook, narrated by Landon Woodson, ~3 hours 56 minutes long.
Alternative Ways to Learn
If you’re short on time, check out these interviews and reviews:
“Where We Live” (Connecticut Public Radio Interview) — Bill Keller discusses his book, its findings, and implications (approx. 49 minutes).
“Q&A: Bill Keller on rehabilitation and the waste of human potential” — an interview exploring key themes of the book.
Review by Brennan Center for Justice — A summary of the core issues Keller raises.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, February 11
Time: 12:00–1:00 PM (Mountain Time)
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Book: What’s Prison For?: Punishment and Rehabilitation in the Age of Mass Incarceration By: Bill Keller
The conversation will be facilitated by members of the Montana Innocence Project team. Whether you’ve read every page or just want to listen and learn, you’re welcome to join.
How to Join
Zoom Link: https://umontana.zoom.us/j/92990488727?pwd=a04DxIkvQzr8deVazpiBDbZBNgjLQE.1
Meeting ID: 929 9048 8727
Password: 500046