Just Mercy

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• How did alternating chapters between McMillian’s case and other individual cases impact the structure and flow of the book? Did you find this approach effective in conveying the broader patterns of injustice Stevenson aims to highlight? 
• Stevenson is deeply empathetic toward his clients, especially those who committed serious crimes due to trauma, mental illness, or systemic failures. How did this empathy influence your own understanding of mercy and justice? 
• Throughout Just Mercy, Stevenson points out that America’s criminal justice system is fundamentally broken. Were there specific insights or moments that drove home this point for you? Did these insights change the way you think about justice?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• Stevenson discusses institutionalized racism and the biases within the criminal justice system. Where do you see racial biases at play in society? How does this affect your view of justice and fairness?
• The concept of mercy is central to Stevenson’s philosophy. He says, “Each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done” (17). How does this resonate with your own beliefs about forgiveness and redemption? Do you think society could better balance punishment and mercy?
• Many of Stevenson’s clients are children or young adults who faced harsh adult punishments.