The Sun Does Shine: Oprah's Book Club Summer 2018 Selection - Book reviews of The Sun Does Shine: Oprah's Book Club Summer 2018 Selection

'The Sun Does Shine: Oprah's Book Club Summer 2018 Selection' book reviews

Review for'The Sun Does Shine: Oprah's Book Club Summer 2018 Selection'

"The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row" by Anthony Ray Hinton is an extraordinary memoir that not only delivers a powerful personal story but also serves as a poignant commentary on the flaws in the American justice system. Selected as Oprah's Book Club Summer 2018 pick, the book invites readers into the harrowing experience of a man who spent nearly three decades on death row for a crime he did not commit.

Anthony Ray Hinton's story is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Arrested in 1985 for a series of murders that he didn't commit, Hinton was wrongfully convicted and sentenced to death. The book chronicles his 30-year journey from despair to hope and ultimately to freedom, thanks to the tireless efforts of his lawyer, Bryan Stevenson, and the Equal Justice Initiative. Hinton's narrative is a searing indictment of racial injustice and the systemic failures that plague the American legal system.

One of the most striking aspects of "The Sun Does Shine" is Hinton's unwavering faith and resilience. Despite the unimaginable hardships and the bleak reality of death row, he never loses his capacity for hope and forgiveness. This inner strength is beautifully captured in the prose, making it difficult for the reader to not feel both empathy and admiration for Hinton. His ability to find joy and maintain his humanity in such dire circumstances is nothing short of remarkable.

The book also does an exceptional job of humanizing the individuals on death row. Hinton introduces us to his fellow inmates, painting a complex and compassionate picture of men who are often dismissed as mere criminals. This perspective challenges the reader to reconsider their own preconceptions about justice and punishment, adding layers of depth to the narrative.

Moreover, "The Sun Does Shine" benefits enormously from Hinton’s collaboration with Lara Love Hardin, who co-authored the memoir. The writing is lucid and compelling, making the book accessible while still conveying the gravity of its themes. The pacing is well-managed, and the transitions between Hinton's past and present are seamless, keeping the reader engaged throughout.

While the book is undeniably a personal memoir, it also serves as a clarion call for legal reform. Hinton’s story highlights the racial biases, inadequate legal representation, and prosecutorial misconduct that often lead to wrongful convictions. By sharing his story, Hinton not only seeks justice for himself but also for the countless others who have been similarly wronged by the system. It’s a powerful reminder of the urgent need for change.

"The Sun Does Shine" is more than just a memoir; it's a testament to the human spirit and an urgent plea for justice. Anthony Ray Hinton's story is a compelling and essential read for anyone interested in issues of racial justice, the death penalty, or the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a book that leaves a lasting impact, encouraging readers to reflect on the broader implications of Hinton's experience and to consider their own roles in advocating for a more just society.

In conclusion, "The Sun Does Shine" is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking book that deserves a place on everyone's reading list. Anthony Ray Hinton's journey from wrongful imprisonment to freedom is a story of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page, challenging you to think, to feel, and to act.

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