Just Mercy

by

Bryan Stevenson

Just Mercy: Acknowledgements Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
In his acknowledgements, Stevenson begins by thanking the individuals featured in the book and the many other “accused, convicted, and imprisoned” people who had “taught [him] so much about hope, justice, and mercy.” He writes that some names in the book were changed for privacy reasons. He thanks his agent, the editor, members of the publishing company, research assistants, and staff of EJI, many by name.
By first thanking the clients he has served and mentioned in the book, Stevenson indicates that their presence in his life has been of utmost importance. This suggests Stevenson’s desire not to be seen as the hero of the book: highlighting his clients’ experiences, efforts and wisdom gives them agency that has often been taken away or rendered invisible by their experiences.
Themes
Resistance and Advocacy Theme Icon
Empathy, Mercy, and Humanization Theme Icon