Super Short Summary

In David Adams Richards's gritty and allegorical novel Mercy Among the Children, set in rural New Brunswick in the latter half of the 20th century, Lyle Henderson recounts his family's multigenerational struggles with poverty, injustice, and the ramifications of his grandfather Roy's wrongful imprisonment and his father Sydney's vow of non-violence. The Hendersons face relentless defamation and hardship primarily instigated by their neighbor, Mat Pit, while Sydney's refusal to retaliate exacerbates their suffering. Themes of sacrifice, redemption, and societal marginalization permeate as Lyle and his siblings navigate their tumultuous upbringing. The story involves abuse, wrongful imprisonment, environmental toxins, and significant personal loss.