The Master Plan: My Journey from Life in Prison to a Life of Purpose is a memoir by Chris Wilson, detailing his transformation from a teenager convicted of murder to a successful entrepreneur and social justice advocate. Divided into five parts symbolizing phases of trauma, depression, determination, frustration, and triumph, the book recounts how Wilson used a Master Plan to navigate his life sentence, achieve personal growth, and ultimately gain release to help others reenter society. The memoir touches on structural violence, domestic abuse, substance addiction and abuse, racial discrimination, depression, and suicidal ideation.

The Master Plan by Chris Wilson has received positive acclaim for its inspiring and powerful narrative, showcasing the transformative journey of the author from incarceration to empowerment. Critics praise its raw honesty and motivational impact. Some reviewers noted a perceived repetitiveness in certain sections, but overall, the book is highly regarded for its uplifting message.

Prospective readers who savor transformative life stories and social justice themes will appreciate The Master Plan by Chris Wilson. Comparable to Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson and Becoming by Michelle Obama, this memoir is ideal for those drawn to narratives of redemption, perseverance, and personal growth.

Inspirational / Challenging / Emotional / Hopeful

**Chris Wilson (The Author)**

A man who overcomes a challenging adolescence, including a life sentence in prison, by creating and following a plan for self-improvement and service. Once released, he becomes an advocate against the criminal justice system and shares his story.

**Mom (Charlene/“Mona Lisa”)**

Wilson's mother, who struggles with addiction and abuse, impacting Wilson's life choices. Her relationship with him is complex and deeply influential before and during his imprisonment.

**Steve Edwards**

Wilson’s best friend in prison, serving a life sentence for a similar crime. He is a source of encouragement and support, helping Wilson develop and expand his Master Plan.

**Tooky**

A fellow inmate respected by many, including Wilson, who learns from Tooky's calm demeanor despite serving a life sentence. His experiences highlight the weight of incarceration.

**Mr. and Mrs. Edwards**

Steve Edwards' supportive parents who extend their kindness to Wilson, providing him with encouragement and practical advice during and after his incarceration.

**Erick Wright**

The boyfriend of Wilson’s sister, Leslie, and a friend of Steve, who supports Wilson during and after imprisonment, including facilitating contact with Wilson’s mother.

**Darico**

Wilson's son, born when Wilson was very young, who grows up amidst family turmoil and eventually faces his own challenges with the legal system.

**Leslie**

Wilson’s sister who takes on family responsibilities during their mother’s struggles. Her relationship with Wilson is distant due to his imprisonment and family choices.

**Big Daddy and Grandma**

Wilson’s maternal grandparents, providing him with stability during his early years. Big Daddy plays a role as a mentor, while Grandma supports him after Big Daddy's passing.

**Eric**

Wilson's older cousin who shares memorable moments with him in their youth. His death has significant emotional repercussions for Wilson.

**Derrick**

Wilson’s older brother who bullies him but remains a consistent presence in his early life. Their relationship is strained after Wilson is incarcerated.

**The Cop**

Wilson’s mom’s abusive boyfriend whose actions contribute significantly to the family's distress and Wilson's subsequent life challenges.

**Mr. Mee**

Wilson's therapist in prison who aids in his emotional development but with whom Wilson has a complicated trust relationship.

**Keith Showstack**

A lawyer who represents Wilson and helps reduce his prison sentence. His distinctive personality and dedication provide some light moments within the narrative.

**Judge Serrette**

The judge who conducts Wilson’s hearing and plays a pivotal role in shortening his prison sentence. She later engages in a reflective dialogue with him.

**The Caseworker**

Wilson’s caseworker in the halfway house who exhibits hostility towards him, impacting his transition back into society.

**Kathy Anderson**

Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Baltimore who supports Wilson during his re-entry to education, offering a welcoming environment.

**Karen Stokes**

Wilson’s employer at a nonprofit, who shows trust in his abilities and provides him with opportunities to succeed.

**Jane Brown**

A philanthropist who helps Wilson financially on a personal basis after hearing his story, becoming one of the few who knows his background while supporting him discreetly.

Chris Wilson

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Master Plan reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Master Plan | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Master Plan and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Master Plan Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue: “One Shot” - Part 1: “The Cave”

Prologue-Part 1

The Master Plan Prologue-Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2 The Master Plan Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Master Plan”

Part 3, Chapters 1-10

The Master Plan Part 3, Chapters 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 11-20

The Master Plan Part 3, Chapters 11-20 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 21-29

The Master Plan Part 3, Chapters 21-29 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Middle Passage, Part 2”

Part 4 The Master Plan Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “From Plan to Action”

Part 5, Chapters 1-9

The Master Plan Part 5, Chapters 1-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “From Plan to Action” - Epilogue: “Moving Forward”

Part 5, Chapter 10-Epilogue

The Master Plan Part 5, Chapter 10-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

keyFigure

Key Figures

The Master Plan Key Figures

theme

Themes

The Master Plan Themes

Index of Terms

The Master Plan Index of Terms

quote

citation

character

Important Quotes

The Master Plan Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Master Plan Essay Topics

The Master Plan: My Journey from Life in Prison to a Life of Purpose

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Master Plan?

Reading Age

Book Details