In celebration of Banned Books Week, I give you my favorite classic banned book/contemporary book pairing for your book club. Harper Lee’s classic To Kill a Mockingbird may be the most well known banned book, and is certainly in the running for most well known character from a banned book–Atticus Finch. A resilient lawyer with justice in the forefront of his mind, Atticus has become an icon in American literature and popular culture.
There is no better way to follow To Kill a Mockingbird than Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson. Published more than 50 years apart, this pairing of fiction and narrative nonfiction echo each other across time. Richly detailed and wonderfully written, Just Mercy will make you angry cry then rally.
- JUST MERCY by Bryan Stevenson
“Not since Atticus Finch has a fearless and committed lawyer made such a difference in the American South. Though larger than life, Atticus exists only in fiction. Bryan Stevenson, however, is very much alive and doing God’s work fighting for the poor, the oppressed, the voiceless, the vulnerable, the outcast, and those with no hope. Just Mercy is his inspiring and powerful story.”—John Grisham
Want More Banned Books?
Click for a list of the most frequently challenged books, watch our video highlighting some of our recently challenged books, view our Banned Books edelweiss collection, and, of course, be sure to check out our Pinterest board for display ideas and more.