Summer Reading List 2026: PGP Staff Book Picks on Educational Justice
As the summer winds down, we’re highlighting four powerful books that deepen our understanding of the criminal-legal system, educational justice, and human resilience. Below are our staff recommendations—complete with key takeaways, discussion questions, and quotes.
The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row
Anthony Ray Hinton | Memoir
Nina’s Take
The Sun Does Shine is an extraordinary memoir detailing Anthony Ray Hinton’s 30-year journey on Alabama's death row for a crime he did not commit. Sentenced to death in 1985 for two capital murders based on faulty ballistics evidence and systemic bias, Hinton spent decades fighting for justice with the help of civil rights attorney Bryan Stevenson and the Equal Justice Initiative. He was fully exonerated and released in 2015. Nina points to the book as an essential read for anyone passionate about criminal justice reform, emphasizing how Hinton’s story illuminates systemic flaws while highlighting how strength and resilience can sometimes prevail.
"I recommend this book because it focuses on a story that is often overlooked or forgotten about in the system: Anthony Ray Hinton spent 30 years on death row for a crime he didn't commit. It is a heavy story of injustice, while simultaneously shedding light on the unwavering hope of the human spirit."
Beyond exposing the devastating impacts of wrongful conviction, Nina notes that reading Hinton’s story in his own words grounds the conversation in the reality of lived experience: "Reading this story in Anthony's voice is a powerful reminder that those closest to the criminal-legal system (and those most unjustly affected by it) should be at the forefront of any and all efforts for reform and change."
Discussion Questions
In what ways does reading Hinton’s story in his own voice change or deepen your understanding of the criminal-legal system compared to reading statistics or policy reports?
Hinton spent 30 years on death row despite evidence of his innocence. What systemic failures and racial biases contributed to his wrongful conviction?
While on death row, Hinton started a book club—reading works by James Baldwin, Maya Angelou, and others. Why do you think he did that? How does Hinton’s death row book club demonstrate the transformative power of education and community within carceral spaces?
Memorable Quotes
"Despair was a choice. Hatred was a choice. Anger was a choice. I still had choices, and that knowledge rocked me."
"It’s hard to explain exactly what it feels like to be judged. There’s a shame to it. Even when you know you’re innocent."
Learn More & Get Involved
Visit the Equal Justice Initiative to read more about Ray Hinton’s case.
Apply to be a PGP volunteer tutor or support our educational programs.