Books behind bars: what do kids do in jail? Many discover reading.(LAST BELL)

The door slams and I enter the world of prison, with its steel doors and barbed wire. The cold buildings conceal children awaiting trial for offenses ranging from malicious mischief to murder. A grim sight, filled with shackles and sorrow.

I never expected to work in a locked facility, but here I am, peddling books to juvenile inmates, ages 9 to 19.

Imagine that your student may only be in class a total of three hours before he or she goes off to court and probably years in prison. How can I deliver top-notch education fast, making every moment count? Time is running out for this group of learners.

The holding cell at Central Juvenile Hall is the …