I had always thought that this book was a collection of letters written by Nelson Mandela but it turns out they are by a fellow prisoner, Ahmed Kathrada. The letters cover the time from their trial in 1964 until Mr. Kathrada's release in 1989. They give a good view of life in both Robben Island, where they first were, and Pollsmoor Maximum Prison where they were toward the end of their time in prison. In addition, the letters include frequent philosophical comments that give insight into how Kathrada managed to endure twenty-five years in maximum security prison and come out with little, if any bitterness, and just take up life. Like Mandela, Kathrada was politically active after prison, serving in the South African parliament. Even twenty-five years after their release I found this to be a most worthwhile read. ( )