For families and friends of incarcerated loved ones, finding the right way to support them can feel overwhelming. One of the most meaningful gifts you can send is a book. Reading not only fills long hours in prison but also provides inspiration, education, and emotional relief.
At NJ Corrections Bookstore, we specialize in providing approved books for New Jersey inmates, ensuring your loved ones get materials that are safe, uplifting, and allowed by the DOC. This guide will help you understand how to choose the best books for inmates in New Jersey, whether you’re looking for motivation, education, or entertainment.
Why Books Are So Important for New Jersey Inmates
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Education & Skill-Building: Books provide valuable knowledge that can help inmates prepare for reentry.
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Emotional Support: Motivational and spiritual books inspire resilience and hope.
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Stress Relief: Reading offers a healthy escape from prison stress.
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Reentry Preparation: Business, finance, and legal books equip inmates with tools for success after release.
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Connection with Loved Ones: Sending a book shows you care and keeps bonds strong.
How to Choose the Best Books for Inmates in New Jersey
When selecting books, think about your loved one’s needs, interests, and goals. Below are categories of books that are especially impactful for prisoners.
1. Motivational & Self-Help Books
Prison can be a place of deep reflection. Motivational books help inmates build confidence, stay positive, and develop self-discipline.
Great Picks Include:
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The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey – teaches habits for personal success.
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Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins – promotes mental toughness and breaking limitations.
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As a Man Thinketh by James Allen – short but powerful guide to positive thinking.
2. Educational & Skill-Building Books
Education is one of the strongest predictors of successful reentry. Books that build critical thinking, communication, or job skills prepare inmates for life beyond prison walls.
Great Picks Include:
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Introduction to Business – beginner-friendly overview of business and entrepreneurship.
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The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking by Dale Carnegie – builds confidence in communication.
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The Biggest Bluff by Maria Konnikova – teaches self-control and decision-making through the lens of poker strategy.
3. Business & Finance Books
Many inmates dream of starting a new career or business after release. Business and finance books provide practical knowledge about money management and entrepreneurship.
Great Picks Include:
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Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki – challenges traditional views about money.
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The Richest Man in Babylon by George Clason – timeless lessons about saving and investing.
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Money Master the Game by Tony Robbins – shows how to launch businesses with limited resources.
4. Legal & Rights Books
Understanding the law is critical for inmates navigating the prison system. Legal books help them advocate for their rights and prepare for parole or appeals.
Great Picks Include:
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Prisoner’s Self-Help Litigation Manual by John Boston & Daniel Manville – step-by-step guide to protecting rights.
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The Criminal Law Handbook by Paul Bergman & Sara Berman – explains the justice process in plain language.
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You Have the Right to Remain Innocent by James Duane – practical guide on protecting yourself legally.
5. Inspirational Biographies
True stories of people who overcame incredible odds can inspire inmates to persevere and change their lives.
Great Picks Include:
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The Autobiography of Malcolm X as told to Alex Haley – story of transformation through prison education.
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Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela – story of resilience during 27 years of imprisonment.
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The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls – memoir of overcoming poverty and adversity.
6. Fiction & Urban Literature
Fiction provides entertainment and escape, while urban fiction resonates deeply with many inmates because of its realistic storytelling.
Great Picks Include:
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The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah – a classic in urban fiction.
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True to the Game by Teri Woods – gripping story of love, loyalty, and the streets.
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B-More Careful by Shannon Holmes – dramatic tale of survival and ambition.
How to Send Books to New Jersey Inmates
Sending books to prisons requires following NJ DOC rules. Many prisons only accept books sent directly from approved vendors like NJ Corrections Bookstore.
Here’s how to do it:
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Visit NJ Corrections Bookstore.
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Browse our categories: Motivational, Educational, Business, Legal, Biographies, and Fiction.
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Add your selections to the cart.
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Provide the inmate’s full name, ID number, and facility address.
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Place your order—we handle DOC compliance to ensure delivery.
Why Choose NJ Corrections Bookstore
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Approved vendor for New Jersey prisons (reduces risk of rejection).
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Wide selection of motivational, educational, and legal books.
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Fast shipping directly to correctional facilities.
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Simple ordering system built for families and friends.
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Affordable pricing with no hidden fees.
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Committed to empowering inmates through education and reading.
Contact Us
- Phone: 201.559.0592
- Email: info@njcorrectionsbookstore.com
- Website: https://www.njcorrectionsbookstore.com
We’re here to help New Jersey inmates get the books that inspire, educate, and support their growth.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best books for inmates in New Jersey is one of the most impactful ways to support a loved one behind bars. Whether it’s motivational titles like The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, legal guides like The Criminal Law Handbook, or inspiring memoirs like Long Walk to Freedom, books have the power to transform lives.
At NJ Corrections Bookstore, we make the process simple and reliable. With our approved inventory and fast delivery, you can send books that encourage growth, inspire hope, and prepare inmates for success after release.