"What made a promising university student become a bank robber? How did a world traveller become an internationally wanted criminal?" This book is an autobiographical account of the author's route into crime, from an unknown university student to an infamous bank robber wanted on both sides of the pond. It isn't long before he swaps lecture halls for the ruthless walls of the American prison system. This book shows how the path of crime is not always easy to predict - and that the voices of those locked away will one day be heard. Surrounded by the dismal walls of his prison cell, the author retreats into his memories, where the past slowly unravels and the path to his future predicament is made clear. "Just Sky" is a story of discovery and dreams, of loss and struggle. It is a gripping tale which lays bare the harrowing details of the time spent by the author in American prisons.
Stephen Jackley spent 7 years in 23 American and British prisons before getting released in 2015, when he helped to found the publishing social enterprise that is now Arkbound. He now works with the justice charity, Justice in Prisons, along with the Arkbound Foundation - helping to tackle stigma towards ex-offenders and the myths surrounding imprisonment. In 2016 he was commended by HRH Prince Charles for his work with charities and community organisations.
In Just Sky, Stephen Jackley offers a powerful account of his journey from adolescent life in Devonshire to his early adult years as a bank robber and criminal serving time in a Vermont prison. Jackley relates with unflinching honesty how he became convinced of his mission to redress the inequalities of modern capitalism in a series of Robin Hood crimes intended to take from the rich and give to the poor. He interweaves his many travel experiences across Europe, Asia and America with stark descriptions of contemporary prison culture and moments of searching introspection. His sensitive reflections on his past motivations and actions make for compelling reading. Ultimately, Just Sky is a must for anyone interested in autobiography and true crime. - EW, Amazon UK
