Love is Not a Luxury

In 1972, the Brazilian prison profiled here was beyond control--crowded and chaotic. As a desperate measure, it was turned over to a Christian group visiting the men, whose approach transformed the prison's culture. Today this prison has no guards and no police. The practical aspects of discipline and all security are in the hands of the inmates, who are called recuperandos, "men who are recovering." Using the principles of the cursillo, a Spanish Christian movement, the program leads the men through a 3-step process culminating in home-based community service. An afterword states that only 4% reoffend, that the system now works (beside the police) in 130 Brazilian prisons and that representatives from 35 countries have visited to learn about it. An engrossing, skillfully produced exploration of a unique approach to criminal behavior. Provocative and sure to stimulate discussion. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Reed)