A Knock at Midnight: A Story of Hope, Justice, and Freedom

Brittany Barnett
44 pages1-hour read
Nonfiction
Autobiography / Memoir
Adult
Published in 2020

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Book Brief

Brittany Barnett

A Knock at Midnight

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Genre
Biography
Setting

United States • 2000s

Theme
Race

•

Justice

•

Politics & Government
Topic
Social Justice

•

Race & Racism

•

Crime & Law
First Publication Year

2020

Publisher

Crown

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

A Knock at Midnight by Brittany Barnett is a nonfiction account interweaving Barnett's journey as a lawyer with the story of Sharanda Jones, who received a life sentence for a minor role in the drug trade. The book examines the ramifications of 1980s drug laws and mass incarceration, detailing Barnett's legal fight to free Sharanda and addressing systemic racism within the justice system.

Inspirational

Challenging

Emotional

Hopeful

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.6

8,137 ratings

94%

Loved it

5%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

A Knock at Midnight by Brittany Barnett has garnered acclaim for its powerful storytelling and deep dive into the injustices of the American criminal justice system. Barnett's personal connection and legal expertise lend authenticity, though some critics argue the narrative occasionally feels disjointed. Overall, it's a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Knock at Midnight?

A reader who would enjoy A Knock at Midnight by Brittany Barnett is likely passionate about social justice, criminal justice reform, and memoirs. Fans of Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson and The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander will find this book compelling due to its similar themes of systemic inequities and personal narratives.

4.6

8,137 ratings

94%

Loved it

5%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

Key Figures

A corporate attorney who transitioned to fighting against mass incarceration, motivated by her personal experiences and family connections to the War on Drugs.

Barnett's mother, whose struggles with addiction and incarceration profoundly influenced Barnett’s empathy and dedication to helping those unjustly sentenced.

A woman Barnett discovered during law school, whose case inspired Barnett to take up pro bono work and highlighted the broader injustices faced by Black women in the prison system.

Brittany Barnett's sister, known for her carefree nature and the strong bond she shares with Barnett, especially during their mother's incarceration.

Barnett’s paternal grandmother, who provided a loving and supportive environment during Barnett’s upbringing, significantly influencing her development and values.

Barnett’s paternal grandfather, a successful business owner with limited formal education, known for his wisdom and perseverance despite racial challenges.

Barnett's father, whose separation from Evelyn and personal triumphs over addiction contributed to Barnett's understanding of resilience.

A childhood friend of Barnett who received a harsh sentence for drug charges, which initiated Barnett's involvement in sentencing reform.

Barnett's childhood acquaintance given a life sentence for drug charges, illustrating the harshness of sentencing and the struggles within the prison system.

Mike Wilson’s brother, also incarcerated, whose long-time separation from his brother emphasizes the familial impact of the justice system.

One of Barnett's first clients to receive clemency, demonstrating both the complexities of criminal justice reform and the challenges of post-incarceration life.

A client serving multiple life sentences whose story prompted Barnett to reevaluate her career path and focus more on criminal justice advocacy.

A young man with a life sentence for nonviolent offenses, representing the systemic issues within sentencing policies; his case includes an unusual judicial protest.

A friend of Sharanda’s whose case became internationally recognized, illustrating the power of media advocacy and leading to significant legal attention.

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Genre
Biography
Setting

United States • 2000s

Theme
Race

•

Justice

•

Politics & Government
Topic
Social Justice

•

Race & Racism

•

Crime & Law
First Publication Year

2020

Publisher

Crown

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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