Frankie Owens father of three from Hayling Island was at the lowest point of his life when he found himself detained at Her Majestys pleasure. Suffering for years with an undiagnosed bipolar disorder Frankies life went haywire resulting in a prison sentence.
During his incarceration the Hayling Islander penned a book based on his experiences and observations which has now been shortlisted for a second major literary prize.
Held in high regard by prison governors probation officers and young offenders The Little Book of Prison: A Beginners Guide has made it into the final round of voting for the Peoples Book Prize.
Featuring wry and hilarious descriptions of prison life but also pertinent advice for anyone facing sentencing the book is seen by many as a self-help manual for getting through one of the most difficult situations any individual and their loved ones can face.
Whether Frankie will win the award remains to be seen. The announcement will be made at an awards ceremony in London on May 29. Voting has opened and will finish on May 28. More details can be found on peoplesbookprize.com
