The founder of the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, Alabama, recounts his experiences as a lawyer working to assist those desperately in need, reflecting on his pursuit of the ideal of compassion in American justice
"From one of the most brilliant and influential lawyers of our time comes an unforgettable true story about the redeeming potential of mercy. Bryan Stevenson was a gifted young attorney when he founded the Equal Justice Initiative, a legal practice dedicated to defending the poor, the wrongly condemned, and those trapped in the furthest reaches of our criminal justice system. One of his first cases was that of Walter McMillian, a young man sentenced to die for a notorious murder he didn't commit. The case drew Stevenson into a tangle of conspiracy, political machination, and legal brinksmanship - and transformed his understanding of mercy and justice forever."--Back cover
A powerful, bold true story about the potential for mercy to redeem us, and a clarion call to fix America’s broken system of justice — from one of the most brilliant and influential lawyers of our time. The US has the highest rate of incarceration in the world. The prison population has increased from 300,000 in the early 1970s to more than two million now. One in every 15 people is expected to go to prison. For black men, the most incarcerated group in America, this figure rises to one out of every three. Bryan Stevenson grew up a member of a poor black community in the racially segregated South. He was a young lawyer when he founded the Equal Justice Initiative, a legal practice dedicated to defending those most desperate and in need: the poor, the wrongly condemned, and women and children trapped in the farthest reaches of the US’s criminal justice system. One of his first cases was that of Walter McMillian, a young black man who was sentenced to die for a notorious murder he insisted he didn’t commit. The case drew Bryan into a tangle of conspiracy, political machination, startling racial inequality, and legal brinksmanship — and transformed his understanding of mercy and justice forever. Just Mercy is at once an unforgettable account of an idealistic, gifted lawyer’s coming of age, a moving portrait of the lives of those he has defended, and an inspiring argument for compassion in the pursuit of justice.
This young adult adaptation of a critically acclaimed bestseller explores themes of justice and redemption through powerful storytelling. It highlights the experiences of individuals affected by systemic inequality and sheds light on the legal struggles faced by those wrongfully convicted. With connections to a major motion picture and an HBO documentary, the narrative resonates with contemporary issues, making it a compelling read for young audiences seeking to understand the complexities of mercy and justice.
A True Story of the Fight for Justice
The book highlights Bryan Stevenson's passionate battle against mass incarceration, excessive punishment, and systemic racial inequality. This young adult adaptation brings to life his experiences and advocacy, showcasing the challenges and triumphs he faced in his quest for justice. The narrative is enriched by real-life stories and insights, making it a compelling read for young audiences. The book is also tied to the acclaimed film featuring notable actors, emphasizing its significant cultural impact.
A Game to the Death and Hockey Like You Have Never Seen Before
Focusing on the harrowing consequences of a real-life game of Russian roulette, the narrative unfolds through the eyes of the last survivor among five teenage boys. The survivor recounts their tragic story, revealing how the game led to deep depression and ultimately claimed the lives of his friends. Through this poignant account, the book explores themes of loss, the impact of reckless choices, and the haunting aftermath of trauma on young lives.
"The wrenching, and inspiring, story of a fourteen-year-old sentenced to life in prison, of the extraordinary relationship that developed between him and the woman he shot, and of his release after twenty-six years of imprisonment through the efforts of America's greatest contemporary legal activist, Bryan Stevenson. Here is the story of a poor black kid from the toughest neighborhood of Tampa, Florida, who at age eleven began "jacking" (stealing) cars with his friends. At age thirteen he shot a white woman in the jaw during a botched mugging. For that crime, and because of his earlier record as a juvenile delinquent, he was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole--essentially a death sentence. Forgotten by society, tortured by prison guards, held in solitary confinement for eighteen years, he was nonetheless able to accomplish a near-miraculous release from the unimaginable hell of the U.S. correctional system. Unable to afford legal help, through his own determination and strategic thinking, some serendipity, and the all-important help of complete strangers, including Bryan Stevenson and, perhaps most extraordinarily, the woman he shot, he was able eventually to gain his freedom. Full of unexpected twists and turns, the narrative is at times harrowing, disturbing, and painful, but, ultimately it is astoundingly evocative of the power of human will"-- Provided by publisher
Exploring the journey of finding true love, this romance novel invites readers into the author's unique perspective on relationships, written from a male viewpoint. It delves into themes of old-fashioned romance and chivalry, challenging typical gender norms in the genre. The author shares his personal reflections on love, despite a long hiatus from dating, and expresses a deep belief in soulmates and new beginnings. This heartfelt narrative aims to resonate with those who cherish genuine connections and the hope of discovering their special someone.