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There Is a Balm in Huntsville: A True Story of Tragedy and Restoration from the Heart of the Texas Prison System
Two teenagers are killed in a tragic vehicular homicide one night in Texas. Should the 19-year-old drunk driver plead guilty? If so, how long a prison sentence would await him? This nonfiction narrative follows his painful journey, as well as those of his victims' families. Is it possible for victims of violent crime to confront criminals face-to-face? Eventually, the young prisoner becomes involved in some of the first victim-offender dialogues in the country and discovers restorative justice. There Is a Balm in Huntsville , a true story that is both sobering and hopeful, will touch teenagers, teachers, parents, counselors, and professionals in the field. There is a Balm in Huntsville gives hope to all who are confronted by misfortune.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2019
6 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
T. Carlos Anderson
4 books4 followersT. Carlos Anderson is an author, activist, pastor, and speaker who lives and works in Austin, Texas. He directs social ministry efforts for Austin City Lutherans, a non-profit organization that supports a food pantry, an early childhood development center for low-income families, and homelessness ministry services.
"There is a Balm in Wichita Falls" is his third book, and follows the nonfiction narrative path of his second book, "There is a Balm in Huntsville." His first book, "Just a Little Bit More: The Culture of Excess and the Fate of the Common Good," was published in 2014.
"There is a Balm in Wichita Falls" is his third book, and follows the nonfiction narrative path of his second book, "There is a Balm in Huntsville." His first book, "Just a Little Bit More: The Culture of Excess and the Fate of the Common Good," was published in 2014.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
August 30, 2019
Anderson's books always make me think deeply. In this case, justice doesn't have to end with the pounding of a judge's gavel. If victim and offender are willing to enter guided dialog, and that's not always possible, there can be restoration of healthy human relationships. And it's not simply forgiveness.
When Anderson writes of accountability and responsibility, I think anew of my own daily encounters with others, and am humbled.
Balm needs to go nationwide, if we want healing.
In a follow up lecture on Balm, Anderson spoke of empathy, reminding me of Susan Saradon's words: "When you start to develop your power of empathy and imagination, the whole world opens up to you".
When Anderson writes of accountability and responsibility, I think anew of my own daily encounters with others, and am humbled.
Balm needs to go nationwide, if we want healing.
In a follow up lecture on Balm, Anderson spoke of empathy, reminding me of Susan Saradon's words: "When you start to develop your power of empathy and imagination, the whole world opens up to you".
August 14, 2019
When we meet him in the first sentence of "There is a Balm in Huntsville," it's hard to like Andrew Papke. T. Carlos Anderson shows us a rudderless young man in full-throated personal crisis, and it's clear something consequential and terrible is about to occur, leaving innocent victims and their grieving families. On the twenty-fifth page of this compassionate and meaningful book, that's exactly what happens.
In lesser hands, this could become a gratuitous, opportunistic and superficial story of unmitigated tragedy, with no greater point beyond exploiting everyone involved, Papke included. But Anderson finds larger truths to probe. We end up with lessons in humility, forgiveness, grace and personal responsibility. In the detached and richly detailed approach of literary journalism, Anderson shows us a community of people, thrust together through the events of one tragic night, who rise to a level of humanity that both inspires and requires readers to examine their own ethics, morals and principles. "There is a Balm in Huntsville" explores, and tests, our own capacity to accept and absolve.
Anderson shows us how and why Papke takes responsibility for the damage he did. He shows us how Papke acts on that acceptance, and how the victims of his decisions embrace him for it. In this age of avoidance and scapegoating, Papke shows us that, even in the worst circumstances imaginable, it's possible to admit blame, confront guilt and try to make things better for all involved. And this is where Anderson most demonstrates full control of the story. He doesn't portray anyone as sinners or saints, as heroes or as villains. He shows them as they are: flawed, troubled, conflicted, real. He shows us ordinary people realizing their potential to empathize and evolve. He shows us, in the end, how to live -- and asks us to wonder if we could do the same.
In lesser hands, this could become a gratuitous, opportunistic and superficial story of unmitigated tragedy, with no greater point beyond exploiting everyone involved, Papke included. But Anderson finds larger truths to probe. We end up with lessons in humility, forgiveness, grace and personal responsibility. In the detached and richly detailed approach of literary journalism, Anderson shows us a community of people, thrust together through the events of one tragic night, who rise to a level of humanity that both inspires and requires readers to examine their own ethics, morals and principles. "There is a Balm in Huntsville" explores, and tests, our own capacity to accept and absolve.
Anderson shows us how and why Papke takes responsibility for the damage he did. He shows us how Papke acts on that acceptance, and how the victims of his decisions embrace him for it. In this age of avoidance and scapegoating, Papke shows us that, even in the worst circumstances imaginable, it's possible to admit blame, confront guilt and try to make things better for all involved. And this is where Anderson most demonstrates full control of the story. He doesn't portray anyone as sinners or saints, as heroes or as villains. He shows them as they are: flawed, troubled, conflicted, real. He shows us ordinary people realizing their potential to empathize and evolve. He shows us, in the end, how to live -- and asks us to wonder if we could do the same.
December 28, 2020
I revisited a long ago time period through this book. I wish everyone would read it! I worked as a Budget Analyst for Transportation and Criminal Justice for Gov. Ann Richards from 1991-1994 (I was Catherine Sims at the time). It was a time of increased spending and Capital Infrastructure funding for new prisons and I needed to visit prisons to determine how to advise the governor. I visited all types of prisons. The first was in Huntsville, a prison for young offenders, ages 17-25. What an awful experience, being looked on by young men! The smells, sounds, the looks I got! But, as I got used to visiting, the only hope I found in prisons was in the drug treatment program in Kyle and the Victim-Offender Dialogue, the first time I saw light behind the prisoner’s eyes. I’m so proud to have worked to make sure the budget funded this program.
This book beautifully told the story of VOD through the story of Andrew Papke, but I saw many examples of healing of both victims and offenders. People think the death penalty or long prison sentences frees victims of their losses, but it’s not true. Vengeance just leaves their anger unresolved. I met victims working through this program returning to health, and offenders finally working through their guilt. Of course, it never relieves victims or offenders of their sadness or losses. But, if we’re ever to free taxpayers of the enormous costs of warehousing prisoners, we must have these programs. No one’s ever as bad as the worst thing we’ve done.
This book beautifully told the story of VOD through the story of Andrew Papke, but I saw many examples of healing of both victims and offenders. People think the death penalty or long prison sentences frees victims of their losses, but it’s not true. Vengeance just leaves their anger unresolved. I met victims working through this program returning to health, and offenders finally working through their guilt. Of course, it never relieves victims or offenders of their sadness or losses. But, if we’re ever to free taxpayers of the enormous costs of warehousing prisoners, we must have these programs. No one’s ever as bad as the worst thing we’ve done.
April 15, 2021
This a very important an engaging book. Our actions have consequences and redemption requires acknowledgement of a wrong done as well as the awareness our actions have on others. Forgiveness come after the full awareness of the offense. This well written store takes us from the tragic accident through the process of a grow awareness of the terrible effects each person involved suffered. Andrew's willingness to own his actions, his growing self awareness of his internal struggles carry you through this story. He was not only repentant but desirous to teach others is evidence of real change in his life. Forgiveness did not come easy. Years of self reflection and dialog were part of the process.
As one who believes in redemption and change this book gave me much to think about. We cannot just make light of a situation ask for forgiveness and move on. Real repentance as recorded in this story is a painful but healing process. This book needs,a wide readership. There us healing here for our broken world.
As one who believes in redemption and change this book gave me much to think about. We cannot just make light of a situation ask for forgiveness and move on. Real repentance as recorded in this story is a painful but healing process. This book needs,a wide readership. There us healing here for our broken world.
December 31, 2019
There is a Balm in Huntsville tells the story of Andrew Papke, who was convicted on two counts of intoxication manslaughter in 1997. While incarcerated, Andrew participated in Victim-Offender Dialogue, a restorative justice program sponsored by the Texas prison system. After almost 18 years in prison, he was eventually released.
I like author T. Carlos Anderson’s straight-forward writing style. He presents a thoughtful and honest view of the life-changing impacts of Andrew’s addiction issues and poor judgement on the victims’ families, as well as on Andrew’s own family and friends. He also clearly explains the principles behind restorative justice and the Victim-Offender Dialogue program. Some parts of this book may be disturbing to read, especially the description of the car accident which resulted in the death of two teenagers. However, this is ultimately a story of hope and healing.
I like author T. Carlos Anderson’s straight-forward writing style. He presents a thoughtful and honest view of the life-changing impacts of Andrew’s addiction issues and poor judgement on the victims’ families, as well as on Andrew’s own family and friends. He also clearly explains the principles behind restorative justice and the Victim-Offender Dialogue program. Some parts of this book may be disturbing to read, especially the description of the car accident which resulted in the death of two teenagers. However, this is ultimately a story of hope and healing.
February 27, 2021
Did you ever do something you wished you could undo? Back in the mid-1990's a young man made a decision that cost him years of his life behind bars and committed him to a lifetime of making amends as best he can for that decision. Pastor and author T. Carols Anderson does a masterful job of writing this non-fiction account of that young man's life. It shows the power of authentic remorse, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to turn one's life around. It also shows the benefits that cascade through multiple lives when we encourage forgiveness and reconciliation over bitterness and revenge. I highly recommend this book to anyone raising young adults or anyone who cares about healing criminal justice.
October 8, 2019
I was hooked after the first paragraph. The author T. Carlos Anderson did a superb job of telling a gripping story of Restorative Justice I have ever read. I finished this book in record time. It is an easy read and keeps your attention to the end. The best part is at the end where we find out what has happened in the lives of the people involved in this life changing event. Thank you Pr. Anderson for you insight and wonderful story telling. Gripping!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2022
I could not put this book down. I'll be honest, the writing isn't the best but the story is so compelling it didn't matter. The topic, the death of two teenagers at the hands of a drunk driver, is not a pretty story but the way it unfolds and the way numerous people dig down deep and discover hidden strengths that helps them step up to the plate and do what is right instead of what is easy makes it a story of love and hope. Highly recommend.
October 23, 2019
A must read. A story of tragedy, death, forgiveness and redemption. That which we do, the hurts we cause will always be a part of our lives. Forgiveness, acceptance, patience, love; all the virtues we talk about but seldom practice, lead to restoration and life. Thank you T. Carlos Anderson for a wonderful book.
May 14, 2023
The book may deserve more than a 3, but…- at times it read like a Lifetime Movie. The beginning was incredibly sad, so if you have had a bad experience as a result of someone abusing alcohol- be prepared.
I did find the info on Victim//Offender Restoration very interesting, and am glad the offender made an effort to educate young adults on the dangers of drinking and driving.
I did find the info on Victim//Offender Restoration very interesting, and am glad the offender made an effort to educate young adults on the dangers of drinking and driving.
August 12, 2019
Just finished this book about a real life tragedy that happened here in Austin. Enlightening look at the internal workings of justice, the prison system, redemption and the use of mediation in the process of healing. Quick and excellent read.
October 8, 2019
This book touched my heart!
The writing was clear and the true life story was gripping. After working as a DUI counselor for 20 years, I KNOW how many people are affected forever by one awful incident.
The second part of the book (the balm) was new to me, hopeful and heartful.
Great author!
The writing was clear and the true life story was gripping. After working as a DUI counselor for 20 years, I KNOW how many people are affected forever by one awful incident.
The second part of the book (the balm) was new to me, hopeful and heartful.
Great author!
June 14, 2019
The power of vulnerability
Being a Bridges to Life speaker and volunteer, I’ve personally experienced the healing powers of sharing my story and hearing other’s stories. It’s a beautiful and invaluable experience. With the current addiction crisis in our country, there is a great need for restorative justice. While it’s easy to see the negative ripple effect that addiction and crime have on our lives, I’m grateful that this book was written to share that through that, there is an opportunity for a positive ripple effect to occur.
Being a Bridges to Life speaker and volunteer, I’ve personally experienced the healing powers of sharing my story and hearing other’s stories. It’s a beautiful and invaluable experience. With the current addiction crisis in our country, there is a great need for restorative justice. While it’s easy to see the negative ripple effect that addiction and crime have on our lives, I’m grateful that this book was written to share that through that, there is an opportunity for a positive ripple effect to occur.
October 5, 2019
Very interesting book about the law, second chances, and forgiveness.
November 12, 2020
I read this book because I’m familiar with John Sage and Bridges to Life. It’s an amazing restorative ministry Andrew’s story is raw and honest and me that gives us hope
March 25, 2022
Rec by patron. Hard book. I do believe in restorative justice, but wow, the level of forgiveness needed is very deep
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews