Orange Is the New Black

by Piper Kerman
Orange Is the New Black cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Biography and Memoir
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 2859
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780349139876
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2013-07-11
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Piper Kerman's life takes an unexpected turn when her past catches up with her, landing her in a Connecticut women's prison. From her first strip search to her final release, she navigates the strange world of prison life, encountering women from all walks of life who surprise her with their generosity and hard truths. This memoir is a captivating and often hilarious insight into the complexities of incarceration, revealing the resilience and humanity of those behind bars. /n/nOriginally published as a memoir, Piper's story has since been adapted into an acclaimed Netflix series, further highlighting its universal appeal and the powerful messages it conveys about society, justice, and personal transformation.

Reviews
Goodreads · Elizabeth Gilbert · 2025-10-16
inspiring 4.50

The story is beautifully told and highlights the strength and resilience of women. It is a memorable and impactful read.

Elizabeth Gilbert praises the book for its beautiful storytelling and the way it showcases the incredible strength and resilience of women. She finds the narrative deeply moving and unforgettable. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to convey the complexities of life in prison and the personal growth that comes from such experiences. The book is seen as a powerful testament to the human spirit and a must-read for those who appreciate memoirs that delve into the depths of human experience.

Quick quotes

    I loved this book... a beautifully told story about how incredible women can be.

    I will never forget it.

    It is a powerful testament to the human spirit.

Literary Elephant · 2019-07-26
thought-provoking 3.50

This memoir is not typical of incarceration accounts, but it offers a unique perspective. The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking, though it may not appeal to those seeking a conventional prison story.

The reviewer notes that this book is far from an average account of incarceration, which might disappoint some readers looking for a typical prison memoir. However, they find the story compelling and the author's perspective refreshing. The narrative style is engaging, and the insights into the prison system are valuable, though the reviewer acknowledges that the book's uniqueness might not resonate with everyone. The focus on the author's personal experiences and the broader social commentary makes it a worthwhile read for those interested in unconventional memoirs.

Quick quotes

    If you're looking for a memoir about an 'average' incarceration account, Orange is the New Black is far from the best choice.

    That said, I do think it offers a unique and valuable perspective on the prison system.

    The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking, though it may not appeal to those seeking a conventional prison story.

Slate · 2010-04-08
insightful 4.00

The author's self-description as a 'nice blond lady' contrasts with her experiences as an ex-con. The memoir offers a unique perspective on the prison system and personal transformation.

The reviewer highlights the intriguing contrast between the author's background and her experiences in prison. The memoir is seen as a compelling exploration of identity and personal growth. The reviewer appreciates the author's honesty and the way she navigates the complexities of her past. The book is praised for its unique perspective on the prison system and the personal transformation that occurs within it. It is a thought-provoking read that offers valuable insights into the human experience.

Quick quotes

    In her new memoir, Piper Kerman describes herself as a 'nice blond lady.'

    She is also an ex-con.

    The memoir offers a unique perspective on the prison system and personal transformation.

Appears in Lists