The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Anthony Ray Hinton’s memoir is both a deeply personal story and a broader critique of systemic injustice. Did you find the balance between his personal journey and the social issues he highlights effective? Why or why not?

2. What aspects of Hinton’s storytelling stood out to you the most—his use of humor, imagination, faith, or perseverance? How did these elements shape your reading experience and understanding of his time on death row?

3. Both The Sun Does Shine by Anthony Ray Hinton and Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson explore wrongful convictions and the failures of the criminal justice system. How does Hinton’s personal account compare to Stevenson’s broader legal perspective? What do you think is the impact of experiencing these issues through the lens of a firsthand narrative versus a lawyer’s viewpoint?

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

1. Hinton’s faith played a significant role in his ability to endure his wrongful imprisonment. Have you ever relied on faith, belief, or a guiding principle to help you through a difficult period? How did it shape your outlook?