The Journey to Prison

When 'The Journey to Prison' was published in 2002 it became an instant best seller. In it, Celia Lashlie analysed the forces that shape the face of crime in New Zealand, the way we punish offenders, the effectiveness of prison (for both men and women), parental responsibility, the role of drugs, where education comes in and the role of state institutions. This revised edition also contains her insights into some of the more tragic events of late 2002, and of the debate surrounding the building of yet more prisons. With her unique background Celia Lashlie is able to offer insights free from the media and political spin that frequently colour debate about crime and punishment in New Zealand. Celia Lashlie was the first woman prison officer to work in a male prison. Later she conducted seminars with prison officers, aimed at challenging macho attitudes and behaviour. Perceptive and straight-talking, she became manager of Christchurch Women's Prison in 1997, where she was highly effective in bridging the gap between prison and the community at large. Celia has a degree in anthropology and Maori, and is the mother of two adult children.