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

- The Reckoning was John Grisham's 40th novel, showcasing his prolific writing career, and it explores the genre of historical fiction more deeply than some of his previous works. 
- In an interview with Grisham, he mentioned that the historical elements of the book were inspired by his own research into the World War II era and its impact on Mississippi, blending history with a compelling legal drama.

**Pete Banning**   
A former West Point graduate and military figure who returns to his family's farm with a deep sense of connection, pride, and heritage, which is influenced by his time spent in warfare.

**Joel and Stella Banning**   
Pete and Liza's children, who are modern young adults aiming for careers in law and journalism rather than continuing the family tradition of farming.

**Pastor Bell**   
A minister in the Banning's community whose morally ambiguous actions complicate the narrative, involving personal failings and complex societal issues.

**Florry Banning**   
Pete's older sister, a divorcee who harbors family secrets while acting as a communicative bridge among various family members.

**Liza Banning**  
Pete's adventurous and empathetic wife, who faces societal challenges and personal crises that deeply affect her life.

**Errol McLeish**   
A lawyer who becomes involved with Jackie Bell, aiming to capitalize on the Banning family's misfortune for his personal gain.

**Jackie Bell**  
Pastor Bell's wife who struggles with suspicions of infidelity in her marriage; she fades into the background upon her involvement with Errol McLeish. 

**John Wilbanks**   
The Banning family’s dedicated lawyer, who attempts every possible legal angle to defend Pete Banning, despite his client’s obstinance.

John Grisham

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Reckoning reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Reckoning | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Reckoning and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Reckoning Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Reckoning Background

chapter

chapterType

section

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

character

Character Analysis

The Reckoning Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Reckoning Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Reckoning Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The Reckoning Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Reckoning Essay Topics

The Reckoning Further Reading & Resources

The Reckoning

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Reckoning?

Reading Age

Book Details