Ernest J. Gaines's A Lesson before Dying tells the story of Grant Wiggins, a black teacher working in Louisiana during the Jim-Crow-Era.  Grant finds himself in a position to impart his wisdom on a young many named Jefferson, who has been wrong accused and convicted of murder and is await execution. The only thing bothering Jeferrson more than his impending death is the mistreatment in the courtroom. Professor Wiggings is persuaded by his aunt to help Jefresson die to some dignity.

In this darky depressing novel, Ernest J. Gaines paints the almost too realistic image of living on a planatation in the south during the mid-20th centruy through a ficticious stroy. Gains uses inspiration from what was likely a regular occurence in deep south to help us understand what goes on in the mind of a deeply troubled and burdened young man during a very dark time in America. Join us this week as we discuss this phenomenal book.