Andrew Hamilton thought he had life sorted: beautiful fiancée, a popular pizza restaurant, two beloved dogs and a thriving side business supplying massive quantities of magic mushrooms and LSD to eager Sydneysiders.
Then one night police raided his Surry Hills home and it all came crashing down. Andrew's predicament didn't sink in at first, mainly because he was on a three-day cocaine bender and just wanted to sleep it off. When he was transferred to Parklea Correctional Centre, his prison-inspired existential dilemma began.
The Profound Benefits of a Stint in Prison is a sometimes confronting, more often hilarious insider's view to life inside. Andrew left prison a changed man, determined to turn his life around. This is the story of what happens when max denial collides with the reality of max security.
I saw this book at BigW just before Christmas and wondered what it would be like. After Christmas it was on sale so I picked up a copy as the title sounded appealing. I had no idea who Andrew Hamilton was, and assumed the book was just a re-telling of his time in prison.
I’ve since gone on to learn and understand who Andrew Hamilton is and this book has helped do that. It’s a very light and easy read, and at times I found myself judging Andrew down my nose like I was someone holier than thou. I must say it’s quite entertaining to read and the book brings you to a place of being open minded about those who do time inside. Not a ‘must read’, but if the title stands out to you, like it did for me, give it a go.