Afterglow
June 29, 2019 posted by Unity Wellington

AFTERGLOW: How to Escape from Prison

AFTERGLOW: How to Escape from Prison

Thursday 27th June was a night to remember in Wellington as Unity Books hosted the launch of Dr Paul Wood’s book How to Escape from Prison: The Remarkable Story of How One Man Defied the Odds.

How to Escape from Prison is an honest and compelling account of Paul’s time spent in prison and a story of how, with the right support, time spent with purpose within the prison system can turn a life around. Paul was joined by a host of family and friends to celebrate the launch of the book, with his brother Chris, and wife Mary-Ann Moller introducing the book and sharing memories of Paul’s journey from prison to a doctorate in psychology, a career in public speaking, and fatherhood.

Mary-Ann spoke fondly of first meeting Paul and of the open and sincere way in which he dealt with his past. She went on to note that although ‘not an easy read’ for her, the book makes a strong case for the possibilities of rehabilitation within a prison system. Paul spoke about the writing of the book and how he had worked carefully with his editorial team to ensure he gave an honest, unvarnished account of his character at the time he was writing about. There were many people for Paul to thank including educators, mentors and employers, but most of all his father, who as an English man, Paul assured us, tongue firmly in cheek, would enjoy being talked about publicly. Finishing on a serious note, Paul recognised that his story is something of an exception to the general rule and gave a rallying call for voters to engage with the issue of provisions for rehabilitation in our prison system, noting NZ’s high re-offending rates compared to nations who make this a priority.

An appreciative audience responded with book purchases and signing all around in what turned out to be a sell-out night.

 

There were plenty of old friends on hand for Paul to catch up with before the launch got underway

Family, friends and readers warm up with a drink

Too good a read to wait to get home

Paul’s brother Chris Wood opened the speeches with a warm tribute to his brother

Paul’s wife Mary-Ann Moller was proud to introduce an important book that was ‘not an easy read’

Paul joined the front row for the family speeches

No spoilers, as Paul noted in his speech, this story does have a happy ending

Paul Wood remembered some of the hardest times during his incarceration…

…and paid tribute to the many people who supported him on his journey.

The signing started quickly with characteristically friendly chat for everyone who came to meet Paul

A packed room and an inspiring story ensured the book sold out on the night

Taren Stevens of HarperCollins NZ catches up with Paul after a busy evening of signing

 

How to Escape from Prison by Paul Wood is available to by in-store and online now.

Words and photos John Duke

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