Tariq MaQbool is the creator and facilitator of the Captive Voices Writing Program at the New Jersey State Prison. He[…]

“I Write About Bad Prison Conditions. That Doesn’t Mean I Hate All Cops” by Tariq MaQbool
As a kid in Pakistan, police treated Tariq MaQbool like a nephew. As an adult in solitary confinement, the kindness[…]

“A New Beginning” by Tariq MaQbool
Although, I must admit that some of the songs are pretty good. Anyhow, the main attraction for me is the[…]

“The Road To Success” by Shawn Robert Johnson
The road to success will inevitably call your bluff With adversities, obstacles, and all kinds of stuff That terrain you[…]

“Less Like You” by Dawan Ingram
-By Dawan Ingram
You said I was guilty but you lied You say I am heartless yet I cry
You say I am evil yet I do good

“The Climb” by Shawn Robert Johnson
-By Shawn Robert Johnson
You have that dream you are dreaming where you can almost see it
However there’s a voice inside your head saying you’ll never reach it

After Covid Outbreak at New Jersey State Prison, Prisoners Fear the ‘Dungeon'” by Tariq MaQbool
A COVID-19 outbreak has hit the New Jersey State Prison (NJSP), prompting a facility-wide, 10-day halt of most movement in[…]

Strict Covid-19 Regulations on Prison Visits Create Angst for Families” by Michael J Doce
By Michael J. Doce and Tariq MaQbool

“Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover” by Brandon Cowser
-By Brandon Cowser
I learned about being prejudiced from an early age. I guess it’s a natural occurrence in all walks of life. Now there’s nothing wrong with this act. A person forms an opinion based upon the information obtained over the course of one’s lifetime.

“Ramadan: Divine Therapy” by Tariq MaQbool
On April 2, 2022, I started my 21st Ramadan being locked up. And sitting in my cell late at night[…]