A Lesson Before Dying
Book description
NATIONAL BOOK CRITICS CIRCLE AWARD WINNER • A deep and compassionate novel about a young man who returns to 1940s Cajun country to visit a Black youth on death row for a crime he didn't commit. Together they come to understand the heroism of resisting.
"An instant classic." —Chicago Tribune…
Why read it?
2 authors picked A Lesson Before Dying as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
I love the heart-breaking power of this story about a falsely accused Black man on death row in the racist 1940s South. A college-educated teacher visits him in prison and gives him some dignity before his execution happens, and in so doing, gives meaning to himself and his community.
The unfairness of what went on in this country on a daily basis with our criminal justice system is shameful. But this book compels us to rise above it and create meaning and hope.
The conversations are real and raw, and I cried real tears at the end. This book made…
From Karen's list on books for law lovers, fairness fighters, and true crime connoisseurs.
This book should hold higher prominence in American literature than it does.
Ernest J Gaines taught at my hometown university and finished his life quietly in the countryside. However, this novel is anything but quiet. It takes on the racism of the South and shows what dignity in the face of such an atrocity looks like.
His ability to depict the nuanced relationships between different groups of people in South Louisiana is humbling. Many books have made me feel something; few have made me feel something so important for so long.
From Toby's list on South Louisiana culture.
Want books like A Lesson Before Dying?
Our community of 10,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like A Lesson Before Dying.
Browse books like A Lesson Before Dying
5 book lists we think you will like!
Interested in African-American men, death row, and Louisiana?
10,000+ authors have recommended their favorite books and what they love about them. Browse their picks for the best books about African-American men, death row, and Louisiana.