DigeeBooks

One of Vultures “6 New Books You Should Read This February.” MacArthur fellows Reginald Dwayne Betts and Titus Kaphar present a stunning literary and artistic collaboration that confronts the abuses of the criminal justice system.Throughout their award-winning careers, visual artist and filmmaker Titus Kaphar and poet, memoirist, and attorney Reginald Dwayne Betts have shed light on the violences of incarceration and the underexplored contradictions of American history. In Redaction, they unite their different mediums to expose the ways the legal system exploits and erases the poor and incarcerated from public consciousness.First exhibited at MoMA PS1, the fifty “Redaction” prints layer Kaphars etched portraits of incarcerated individuals with Bettss poetry, which uses the legal strategy of redaction to craft verse out of legal documents. Three prints are broken apart into their distinct layers, illuminating how the pair manipulated traditional engraving, printing, poetic, and redaction processes to reveal what is often concealed. This beautifully designed volume also includes additional artwork, poetry, and an introduction by MoMA associate director Sarah Suzuki. The result is an astonishing, powerful exploration of history, incarceration, and race in America.

In Reginald Dwayne Betts' gripping novel, "Redaction," we embark on a powerful journey through the American criminal justice system and the challenges faced by those caught within its intricate web. At its core, the novel delves into the complexities of redemption, resilience, and the transformative power of literature.

The narrative revolves around the protagonist, Malcolm, a young man who finds himself entangled in a drug-related crime that lands him behind bars. As he navigates the harsh realities of prison life, Malcolm discovers solace and a glimmer of hope in the solace of books. Through the written word, he embarks on a transformative odyssey that challenges his preconceived notions of himself, his circumstances, and the world around him.

Betts masterfully weaves together a tapestry of emotions as Malcolm grapples with guilt, anger, and a longing for a life beyond the prison walls. He finds camaraderie among fellow inmates, mentors in unexpected places, and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of language and the power of storytelling. As Malcolm delves deeper into the world of literature, he begins to articulate his own experiences, channeling his pain and frustration into written form.

"Redaction" is not merely a tale of incarceration; it is a poignant exploration of the human spirit's capacity for resilience and growth even in the face of adversity. Betts deftly portrays the dehumanizing aspects of the prison system while shedding light on the transformative power of education and the arts. Through Malcolm's journey, we are reminded of the importance of empathy, compassion, and the unwavering belief in the potential for redemption.

With its lyrical prose and unflinching honesty, "Redaction" offers readers a profound meditation on crime, punishment, and the possibility of finding hope and healing in the unlikeliest of places. Betts' novel is a powerful indictment of a justice system that often fails those it is meant to serve, yet it is also a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of literature.