Infuriating, informative, and inspiring. This story is an essential read for a deeper understanding of our justice system and society. It unveils the horrific repercussions that unjust practices have on our most vulnerable people.

Legendary lawyer, Bryan Stevenson and the other hardworking people at the Equal Justice Initiative have made a significant impact on the lives of so many people, as well as on the legal system. More people should know about their positive influence! They are proof of how much better our world would be if we all learned to show mercy.

We learn about the development of Stevenson’s nonprofit law office, the Equal Justice Initiative, through the lens of specific cases that they’ve taken on. It’s easy to keep track of each case, especially since similar ones are grouped in a single chapter. Excellent structure and steady pacing throughout the story.

The only reason it took me longer to read than I originally thought was because I was highlighting and writing notes so often! Plus, I sometimes needed a break from how maddening several facts from their cases are. In the end, I feel grateful for their selfless work and hope that more people accomplish improvements like theirs.

📖🎧 I alternated between a physical copy and the audiobook, which is narrated by Bryan Stevenson

🎥 I also watched the movie adaptation of this memoir, starring Michael B. Jordan and oh my heart 💔 such an incredibly moving depiction of these events that I still think about months later — 10/10 recommend it!