Author Talk Featuring Shaka Senghor
Underground Books
About the Author: Shaka Senghor
Shaka Senghor is a bestselling author, speaker, and leading voice
in criminal justice reform whose life story reflects
transformation and redemption. Raised in Detroit in a challenging
environment marked by poverty and violence, he became involved in
the drug trade as a teenager and was convicted of second-degree
murder at age 19. He served 19 years in prison, including seven
years in solitary confinement. While incarcerated, Senghor turned
to reading and writing as tools for reflection, accountability,
and personal change.
After his release, he emerged as a nationally recognized advocate for second chances and system reform. He is the author of Writing My Wrongs and has been featured in major media, including interviews with Oprah Winfrey on SuperSoul Sunday, where he shared his powerful story of redemption and resilience. Today, he speaks and teaches nationally, helping audiences reimagine justice, healing, and personal transformation.
About the Book: How to Be Free
How to Be Free expands on Senghor’s journey by exploring
freedom as an internal practice rather than a physical condition.
Drawing from his time in prison and his path after release,
Senghor offers reflections on healing, self-awareness, and
personal responsibility. The book challenges readers to think
beyond external circumstances and focus on mental, emotional, and
spiritual liberation. Through storytelling and insight, How
to Be Free provides a roadmap for living with purpose,
accountability, and intentional change.
