Jack Gantos: Crime, Consequences, and a Newbery Comeback ...

What this episode covers

Jack Gantos isn’t your typical award-winning author. Before writing the Joey Pigza series, Rotten Ralph, and the Newbery Medal-winning Dead End in Norvelt, he served time in prison for smuggling hashish—a moment he turned into the acclaimed memoir Hole in My Life (a Michael L. Printz Honor and Sibert Honor Book). In this powerful conversation, Gantos opens up about second chances, censorship, ADHD, and how storytelling became his lifeline. Educators and librarians can explore his school visit offerings and presentations at jackgantos.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Unban Coolies?

This episode is 15 minutes long.

When was this Unban Coolies episode published?

This episode was published on June 14, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Jack Gantos isn’t your typical award-winning author. Before writing the Joey Pigza series, Rotten Ralph, and the Newbery Medal-winning Dead End in Norvelt, he served time in prison for smuggling hashish—a moment he turned into the acclaimed memoir...

Can I download this Unban Coolies episode?

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