Review by Booklist Review
In this accessible young readers' adaptation of Hinton's adult memoir, middle-grade readers will learn of Hinton's wrongful conviction and deep flaws within the U.S. criminal justice system. Hinton was 29, in 1985, when he was arrested for robbery and the murder of a white man, despite having a solid alibi and only flimsy, manufactured evidence to convict him. As a Black man living in Alabama, he was helpless against the systemic racism that put him on death row, but he was determined not to stay there. This is a moving account of his time behind bars (30 years), his inner turmoil and profound strength, and the people who stood by his side and helped him reclaim his freedom---notably, attorney Bryan Stevenson (Just Mercy (Adapted for Young Adults), 2018). It is shocking to see the number of legal hoops and barriers that Hinton was forced to navigate just to have a chance at proving his innocence and fascinating to witness the friendships he forged with others on the row, including a white supremacist and prison guards. Periodically, chapters end with compelling facts and statistics on the American criminal justice system, grounding Hinton's emotional and human story in important, objective context; citations are provided for this information, and quotes are incorporated throughout. Though profoundly tragic, Hinton's story is ultimately one of hope and an undeniable call for change.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 5 Up--In 1985, Anthony Ray Hinton, a 29-year-old Black man, was arrested and incarcerated for nearly 30 years for murders he did not commit. While the criminal justice system made it nearly impossible for him to prove his innocence, he never lost hope that the truth would come to light. In this young reader's edition, the critically acclaimed narrative becomes accessible to a new audience. This devastating and inspiring story invites readers to consider the racial injustice ingrained in the criminal justice system. Attorney Bryan Stevenson, director of the Equal Justice Initiative and author of Just Mercy, served as Hinton's lawyer and provides the introduction to the text, reminding readers that everyone has the power to change the world while echoing the need to understand the unjust treatment of humans, in particular people of color. Hinton's story begins with exploring his youth and promising future, which is taken away all too quickly with a case of mistaken identity and manipulated evidence. Throughout his ordeal, he remained a beacon of hope and represented quintessential human kindness, will, and perseverance. While adapted for a younger audience, the story does not shy away from harsh realities or speak down to readers. Legal proceedings are explained in a clear and non-patronizing way, while the events and dialogue are utterly engrossing. VERDICT This is a must-have for any collection, and a necessary read to inspire the next generation to fight for social and racial justice.--Kaitlin Malixi
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