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.

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.

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

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

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

**Sharanda Jones**  
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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brittany Barnett

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read A Knock at Midnight | SuperSummary

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Overview

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A Knock at Midnight Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Traveling”

Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 5

A Knock at Midnight Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Knocking”

Part 2, Chapters 6-9

A Knock at Midnight Part 2, Chapters 6-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 10-13

A Knock at Midnight Part 2, Chapters 10-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Dawn”

Part 3, Chapters 14-17

A Knock at Midnight Part 3, Chapters 14-17 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

A Knock at Midnight Key Figures

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Themes

A Knock at Midnight Themes

Index of Terms

A Knock at Midnight Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

A Knock at Midnight Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

A Knock at Midnight Essay Topics

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

Before You Read

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