63 pages • 2 hours read
David Adams RichardsMercy Among the Children
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2000A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In David Adams Richards's gritty and allegorical novel Mercy Among the Children, set in rural New Brunswick in the latter half of the 20th century, Lyle Henderson recounts his family's multigenerational struggles with poverty, injustice, and the ramifications of his grandfather Roy's wrongful imprisonment and his father Sydney's vow of non-violence. The Hendersons face relentless defamation and hardship primarily instigated by their neighbor, Mat Pit, while Sydney's refusal to retaliate exacerbates their suffering. Themes of sacrifice, redemption, and societal marginalization permeate as Lyle and his siblings navigate their tumultuous upbringing. The story involves abuse, wrongful imprisonment, environmental toxins, and significant personal loss.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
David Adams Richards' Mercy Among the Children is lauded for its compelling narrative and rich character development, immersing readers in a poignant exploration of poverty and moral dilemmas. Critics highlight its emotional depth and thought-provoking themes. However, some find the pace sluggish and the tone excessively bleak, which might deter sensitive readers.
Who Should Read Mercy Among the Children?
Readers who enjoy deep, psychological explorations of human nature and suffering, akin to those in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and The Shipping News by E. Annie Proulx, will appreciate Mercy Among the Children by David Adams Richards. This novel appeals to those who favor morally complex narratives and rich character development.