Prison Letters
Throughout the year we receive many letters from inmates throughout the UK. Please read some extracts taken from those letters below.
"I have recently read your book. I have never read a book before, and once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down... Like you say in your book, we need to accept that we have messed up and then let God in the driving seat."
Inmate - Forrest Bank HMP, England
"I have just read your book 'Once an Addict'. Mate, it really made a lot of sense to me... I can relate to almost everything you wrote. Your book made me feel peace that I have never felt before and I found it inspirational. It's amazing. I read it in one day."
Inmate - Winchester HMP, England
"Barry, I have just put down your book, and as I was reading it, I had to write. I am 24 and I feel I have a connection with you. I am an addict who is on methadone. I hate what I've become. I've lost everything. Barry, I really wanted to say that you're an inspiration for everyone, even people like us, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to write you a letter. I hope my life turns out like yours makes me a better person."
Inmate - Glenochil HMP, Scotland
"I have just finished reading the book you wrote, 'Once an Addict'. I was amazed at the honesty, but more that anything, I was moved by God speaking to me... Your book spoke to me from start to finish. I've thanked God for you, and now I'm thanking you for your story."
Inmate - Preston HMP, England
"Before I came here, things were getting worst and worst. But when I arrived, I believed it was God's plan. Reading your book has helped me to see how it is God's plan because if I wasn't here, I would have never read it or come across it. I think God brought me to your book, and now I can see that God can really help me."
Inmate - Liverpool HMP, England
"I have just read your book 'Once an Addict, and I felt like this book really meant something to me... To finish this letter, I read aloud the prayer in your book, and also I'm also going to pray for you."
Inmate - Woodhill HMP, England
"I thought that I would write to you after reading your book. I take my hat off to you - it was a great read, and I don't usually read books. In fact, this is only the third book I have read in my entire life. I'm 34... I do believe there is a God, and your book has helped me."
Inmate - Liverpool HMP, England
"I've now read your book four times... After reading it I had tears in my eyes because it touched me deep down."
Inmate - Dartmoor HMP, England
"Your book is amazing! I have just finished reading it. I have been asking and talking to people about your book and it seams as if everybody in Dovegate has read it. I have been inspired so much that I have asked to speak to the chaplain... I don't know how you pulled yourself out, but you did. You're living proof that it can be done... Barry you have given me hope... If you say there is a God, then I believe you."
Inmate - Dovegate HMP, England
"Your book 'Once an Addict' and the prayer at the back of the book has changed my life forever. I was reborn by the Holy Spirit. I even marked the date in my diary."
Inmate - Aklington HMP, England