Carandiru Station: A Doctor's Journey Inside the World's Largest Prison

A gripping and unforgettable account of life inside the notorious Carandiru Penitentiary in São Paulo, Brazil.

In this powerful and moving book, Dr. Drauzio Varella takes readers on a journey into the heart of one of the world's most dangerous and overcrowded prisons. For over a decade, Dr. Varella worked as a volunteer physician at Carandiru, where he witnessed firsthand the harsh realities of life behind bars.

A Vivid Portrait of Life Behind Bars

Dr. Varella's unflinching account of life at Carandiru is a powerful indictment of the Brazilian prison system. He describes the squalid conditions, the rampant violence, and the dehumanizing treatment of prisoners. But he also shows the resilience and humanity of the prisoners themselves, who despite living in unimaginable conditions, manage to find hope and meaning in their lives.

A Call for Reform

Carandiru Station is a powerful call for prison reform. Dr. Varella argues that the current system is not only inhumane, but also counterproductive. He proposes a more humane and rehabilitative approach to criminal justice, one that focuses on providing prisoners with education, job training, and mental health services.

A Must-Read for Anyone Interested in Criminal Justice

Carandiru Station is a must-read for anyone interested in criminal justice, human rights, or the human condition. It is a powerful and unforgettable account of life inside one of the world's most notorious prisons, and a call for a more humane and just approach to criminal justice.

Praise for Carandiru Station

"A powerful and moving account of life inside the notorious Carandiru Penitentiary in São Paulo, Brazil." —The New York Times

"A must-read for anyone interested in criminal justice, human rights, or the human condition." —The Washington Post

"A gripping and unforgettable journey into the heart of one of the world's most dangerous and overcrowded prisons." —The Guardian

"A powerful indictment of the Brazilian prison system and a call for a more humane and just approach to criminal justice." —The Economist

About the Author

Dr. Drauzio Varella is a Brazilian physician, writer, and television host. He has worked extensively with prisoners and has written several books about his experiences. Carandiru Station is his most famous book, and it has been translated into over 20 languages.