Taylor Sheridan, the acclaimed creator behind popular series such as Yellowstone and Mayor of Kingstown, is set to make his debut in the publishing world with a new book titled *How Not to Die in Prison*. Co-authored with Tom Nelson, a former inmate with extensive experience in the prison system, the book promises a darkly humorous yet practical guide to surviving life behind bars. It is scheduled to be released on 23rd June 2026.
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In the book, Sheridan, who has never set foot in a prison himself, admits to the morbid curiosity that has led him to explore the topic. “You might wonder what in the world gives me the knowledge or wisdom to write a survival guide to prison,” he reflects. “Well, I’ll tell you — absolutely nothing. But, like every man, I’ve certainly wondered how I would survive if circumstances ever put me there.”
The guide aims to offer readers crucial insights into surviving various challenges that may arise in a maximum-security prison. The topics covered will range from navigating prison riots and lockdown procedures to handling solitary confinement and even crafting one’s own makeshift weapons. The authors promise an unfiltered look at prison life, stating that the book will share “everything they need to know to make it out alive.”
Tom Nelson, who brings unique firsthand experiences to the project, echoes Sheridan’s sentiment with humour and candour. “I wish I could’ve heeded Taylor’s advice all those years ago and read the f—ing book,” he remarks. Reflecting on his past, Nelson highlights that his journey through the prison system taught him lessons that he later referred to as wisdom. With an extensive background from auto theft to armed robbery, Nelson spent over 17 years behind bars before turning his life around.
This collaboration represents a significant fusion of talents — one being an accomplished writer and filmmaker, while the other has navigated the complex realities of prison life. Nelson jokingly credits the duo’s combination of experiences as a source of valuable insights. “Hey, one of us has written hit TV shows and Academy Award-nominated movies, and the other has spent much of his adult life behind bars in medium and maximum-security prisons. If that’s what makes for good wisdom and entertainment, I’ll take it.”
Sheridan’s expertise in telling gripping stories through film and television has resonated widely, and this move into literature marks a new chapter in his career. Known for his dynamic storytelling, he has received numerous accolades for his work, which includes record-breaking series like *Landman*, *Tulsa King*, and *1923*, as well as acclaimed films like *Sicario* and *Hell or High Water*.
The release of *How Not to Die in Prison* is not merely intended to entertain. Both authors aim to shed light on the often-overlooked realities of prison life, providing a platform for understanding its complexities. With Nelson’s voice guiding readers through the intricacies of survival tactics and Sheridan’s narrative style framing it all, the book promises to be both informative and engaging.
As anticipation builds, the book is already available for pre-order at various retailers. This foray into the literary world reflects Sheridan’s willingness to explore unconventional subjects while tackling serious issues with wit and insight. The duo’s unique perspectives may contribute significantly to the discourse surrounding incarceration and the societal issues intertwined with it.
With its mixed elements of dark humour and stark reality, *How Not to Die in Prison* taps into a universal curiosity about life behind bars, making it a noteworthy addition to both Sheridan’s body of work and the genre of survival guides. As fans look forward to its publication, they can expect a blend of entertainment, education, and a genuine exploration of the prison experience.