Jack Abbott was an American author and convicted criminal, best known for his book, *In the Belly of the Beast*. Born on January 21, 1944, he spent much of his life in prison, where he developed his writing skills. His work often reflects his experiences with the criminal justice system and the challenges faced by inmates. Abbott gained notoriety in the early 1980s when his writings caught the attention of notable figures, including Norman Mailer, who helped him secure a release from prison. However, his freedom was short-lived, as he was arrested again for murder in 1981, leading to a life sentence.