RADFORD -- Radford University criminal justice professor Mary Atwell will discuss her book Wretched Sisters: Examining Gender and Capital Punishment on the public radio program With Good Reason April 26 through May 2. The program airs at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays on Public Radio WVRU at 89.9 FM.

The United States reinstated the death penalty in 1976 and since, 11 women have been executed for murders. Each of those cases involves a "personal story with unique tragic elements," says Atwell in Wretched Sisters.

In the book, Atwell examines each of the 11 cases in detail and explains common themes that reflect how the criminal justice system often defines crimes committed by women. Atwell also explains how many cases exhibited common factors that worked against the women such as prosecutors' and governors' political agendas, heightened media attention and the defendants' inability to afford good legal counsel.

With Good Reason is broadcast on all public radio stations in Virginia and Washington, D.C. Each week, faculty and professionals from the Virginia colleges and universities discuss issues relating to the arts, literature, science and technology, current events, history, business and more.

Their expertise is a valued source for enhancing understanding on past and present issues affecting society.

Visit www.withgoodreasonradio.org to listen to the show online or view the broadcast schedule.

Radford University is a member of the Virginia Higher Education Broadcasting Consortium, which produces With Good Reason.