Just Mercy: Summary

Just Mercy is a powerful, thought-provoking book written by Bryan Stevenson. It tells the story of Stevenson's experiences as a lawyer fighting for justice and mercy on behalf of those who have been wrongfully convicted or treated unfairly by the criminal justice system. The book focuses on many key themes, including racial injustice, poverty, mass incarceration, and the power of redemption. It examines how a broken legal system can lead to devastating outcomes for individuals and families, and highlights the need for reform. In addition, Just Mercy also looks at Stevenson's personal journey in his fight for justice, exploring his motivations and challenges along the way.

1. What was the most powerful moment or message in Just Mercy?
2. How does Bryan Stevenson's work reflect his commitment to justice and mercy for those facing the death penalty?
3. How does the book illustrate how the criminal justice system disproportionately affects people of color?
4. How did Bryan Stevenson's advocacy for Walter McMillian demonstrate his commitment to justice and mercy?
5. What obstacles did Bryan Stevenson face in his work to free the wrongfully convicted?
6. How did Bryan Stevenson use public opinion to create positive change in the criminal justice system?
7. What are some of the ways that Bryan Stevenson used storytelling to advocate for people whose rights had been denied by the legal system?
8. How did Bryan Stevenson’s personal story influence his commitment to justice?
9. What is your reaction to the concept of restorative justice outlined in Just Mercy?
10. How did reading this book change your perspective on criminal justice reform?

• Just Mercy is a powerful and poignant story of justice and redemption, that really made me think about the power of second chances.
• Just Mercy highlights the disparities in our justice system, and challenged me to consider what true justice looks like.
• The characters in Just Mercy were incredibly well-crafted, giving a real insight into the people affected by the decisions of our justice system.
• Just Mercy is an important reminder of the need for empathy and compassion, even when it comes to matters of justice.
• I was particularly moved by how Just Mercy illustrated the power of hope in the face of injustice.
• Bryan Stevenson's journey through the US justice system as depicted in Just Mercy was truly eye-opening for me.
• The themes of culture and identity explored in Just Mercy are so relevant today, and gave me a lot to think about.
• What struck me most while reading Just Mercy was the way it highlighted how our systems can fail those who need help most.
• Despite its darkness, there was something really uplifting about reading Just Mercy - it left me with a feeling of optimism for change.
• Through his writing, Bryan Stevenson demonstrates the importance of fighting for justice, no matter what obstacles stand in your way.

1. "Each of us is more than the worst thing we've ever done."
2. "The true measure of our character is how we treat the poor and the broken among us."
3. "We are all more than the worst mistake we have ever made."
4. "Compassion and mercy can be a form of quiet strength, no less potent than any other power we might possess."
5. "A broken system can only be fixed if there are people willing to stand in the gap and fight for justice."

1. Just Mercy (2020) - This is a feature film adaptation of Bryan Stevenson's memoir, starring Michael B. Jordan, Jamie Foxx and Brie Larson. 2. The Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) Podcast - This podcast series features story-telling episodes related to the work of Bryan Stevenson and the Equal Justice Initiative. 3. The Bryan Stevenson Show - This podcast series features interviews with Bryan Stevenson, his mentors and colleagues as they discuss topics related to justice, race, and injustice. 4. Radio Interviews with Bryan Stevenson - There are numerous radio interviews with Bryan Stevenson, discussing his work and his book Just Mercy.

• The Meaning of Justice
• Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption
• Stand Your Ground: Black Bodies and the Justice of God
• The Last House on Cemetery Road: A Memoir
• The Haunting of Wilhemina McLeod: A Novel
• A New Vision for Criminal Justice Reform in America
• Courage is Contagious: Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things to Change the World