Judge Stone

About This Product

Viola Davis and James Patterson have written an incredible courtroom drama and created the most unforgettable character in years. All rise…for Judge Stone. The most respected citizen in Union Springs, Alabama (population 3,314), is Judge Mary Stone. She holds two responsibilities sacred: running her family farm and presiding over her courtroom. It's there she draws the most controversial case in the history of the South. Criminally, it’s open-and-shut. Ethically, there is no middle ground. Essentially, it’s a choice between life and death. No judge can satisfy everyone. It would be dangerous to try. But Judge Stone is willing to fight to bring justice to the people and place she loves.

Product Details

Manufacturer

by James Patterson (Author), Viola Davis (Author)

ASIN

0316579831

Customer Reviews Summary

What an exceptional book this was. Although it was described as a courtroom drama, it was definitely not full of procedural ramblings. Instead it was a story of human emotions, hardship and inequality. Based in a God fearing rural community in Alabama, where many black people were still regarded as second class citizens. Mary Stone, however, was a generational farmer and respected judge who viewed her position as one of great honour and importance and was deemed to be fair and considered. Nova Jones is a young teenager who finds herself pregnant and is in a terrible predicament as she cannot tell her mother who relies on her to look after her young siblings. A nurse at her school realises what she is going through and arranges a secret abortion with the local doctor. Of course it all comes to light and the doctor is charged with performing an illegal abortion. With opposing sides demanding the right verdict and with a sense of foreboding Judge Mary is in a difficult position. The story mainly follows Judge Mary and it is realised she too has her own issues and problems, the same as anyone else but has to remain impartial and not allow any personal feelings be known. Rising above threats and with great strength and resolve Mary manages to complete the trial but at what cost? A brilliant story that highlights so many issues that affect people negatively but ultimately shows a positive side of human nature.