A Lesson Before Dying- Audio

Ernest J. Gaines writes compelling stories that requires readers to think beyond their typical viewpoint. After reading his novel, ...Miss Jane Pitmann, I was looking forward to reading A Lesson Before Dying. Gaines highlights two stories closely, Grant and Jefferson, who are in the midst of recognizing human worth, learning about their relationship with God and their purpose in life. Grant, a school teacher in the quarter, is asked to meet with an inmate who is on death row. Jefferson, that inmate, is thought of with little value except from his nana. Gaines highlights the unfair treatment of African American people in 1940s through specifically the judicial system. 

I was challenged to look further of who God is and how different cultures view their ability to receive God's love. As a white person, it was eye opening to think about how some African American's can view God as for white people and not for all. It is saddening to think of the many hinderances that were done "in the name of God" but negatively represented Christ. 

I listened to this audio book, partially on a drive through Thanksgiving and then when I returned to my home. I wasn't captivated by the writing or story for 85% of the story. At the last disc, I was finally interested when it came to the viewpoint of the inmate. As the narrator read through the journal of the inmate, the story became more interesting. I wouldn't go out of my way to recommend the story, but if someone asked specifically for the book, I wouldn't dismiss it. It is important to view other's stories, this story accomplished that goal.