The Reckoning by John Grisham is an engaging legal thriller that excels in its historical depth and rich setting. Reviewers appreciate the detailed research and gripping narrative, but some criticize the pacing as uneven and the plot twists as predictable. Overall, it's a compelling read for fans of Grisham's work and historical fiction aficionados.

A reader who enjoys legal thrillers and historical novels would find The Reckoning by John Grisham captivating. Fans of Grisham's previous works or books like To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and A Time to Kill by John Grisham will appreciate the blend of courtroom drama and deep South atmosphere.

In John Grisham’s The Reckoning, World War II veteran Pete Banning returns to Clanton, Mississippi, where he inexplicably murders his church's pastor, Dexter Bell. Despite numerous efforts by his family and legal team to uncover his motives, Pete remains silent and is ultimately sentenced to death. Pete’s children, Joel and Stella, struggle to deal with the aftermath and the hidden truths of their family's past. This novel depicts incidents of racism, mental illness, capital punishment, and graphic violence.

Mysterious / Dark / Suspenseful / Emotional / Contemplative

John Grisham

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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The Reckoning Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Reckoning Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Killing”

Part 1, Chapters 1-10

The Reckoning Part 1, Chapters 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 11-20

The Reckoning Part 1, Chapters 11-20 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Boneyard”

Part 2, Chapters 21-28

The Reckoning Part 2, Chapters 21-28 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 29-35

The Reckoning Part 2, Chapters 29-35 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Betrayal”

Part 3, Chapters 36-43

The Reckoning Part 3, Chapters 36-43 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 44-50

The Reckoning Part 3, Chapters 44-50 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Reckoning Character Analysis

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Themes

The Reckoning Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Reckoning Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Reckoning Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Reckoning Essay Topics

The Reckoning Further Reading & Resources

The Reckoning

Before You Read

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