LibGuides: Augie Reads 2023: Just Mercy: Introduction

Welcome

Welcome to Augustana, Class of 2027! This summer you will read the 2023 Augie Reads book, Just Mercy, by Bryan Stevenson. A short assignment about the book is due on the first day of your FYI 101 or FYH 101 class.

Stevenson is an American lawyer known for his work with disadvantaged clients. He founded the Equal Justice Initiative, a non-profit organization in Montgomery, Alabama.

As you write your assignment, you may find yourself wanting additional information about Stevenson and his work. Follow the links on this page to learn more.

Background on Bryan Stevenson and Just Mercy

Bryan A. Stevenson - Biography
This is Stevenson's profile page at New York University's law school, where he is a professor. The profile includes a brief biography, as well as links to news articles where he is featured or interviewed.
Equal Justice Initiative
This is the home page of the Equal Justice Initiative, where Stevenson is the founder and executive director. EJI is "committed to ending mass incarceration and excessive punishment in the United States, to challenging racial and economic injustice, and to protecting basic human rights for the most vulnerable people in American society."
National Memorial for Peace and Justice and The Legacy Museum
The National Memorial for Peace and Justice was founded by the Equal Justice Initiative to commemorate Black victims of lynching in the U.S. The associated Legacy Museum traces the history of slavery in the U.S. through to present-day mass incarceration. This is the home page for both the memorial and museum.

Reading Guide

Just Mercy: Freshman Year Reading/Common Reading Guide
Penguin Random House--the publisher of Just Mercy--created this short guide to the book to support programs like Augie Reads. The discussion questions may help you focus your reading of the book and begin considering ideas for the essay.