The Guardians

Cullen Post’s character has a unique background, being both a lawyer and an Episcopal priest. Why might the author have chosen to add the religious slant? Explore references to Post’s religion in the text.

Duke Russell’s case is a subplot, secondary to Quincy Miller’s case. What’s the benefit of this B plot? What does it add to the narrative?

The book explores racism both in American society in general and in the criminal justice system specifically. Analyze instances in which the book comments on racism. What is the narrative arguing?

The Guardians touches briefly on the for-profit prison system (e.g., Chapter 8, Page 63). Money is also revealed to be a major driver of people’s actions in the book (e.g., the Sheriff Pfitzner taking cartel kickbacks, Zeke demanding money for his affidavit, and even Dr. Benderschmidt extracting a $30k fee for his testimony). Is this a critique of capitalism—or a commentary on general greed in human nature? Provide textual examples to support your argument.

Cullen Post is almost saint-like. He barely makes any money, devotes all his time to his work freeing wrongly incarcerated people, doesn’t have a private life, and doesn’t live large in any way. Plus, he’s a priest. However, he also doesn’t play by the rules. Discuss Post’s ability to get his “hands dirty” (119). Why is this necessary within the narrative? How does it impact our view of his character?

Duke Russel’s entire case relies on a borderline humorous detail—a single pubic hair. Why would the author choose such a ludicrous detail to determine a man’s innocence or guilt? What is it saying about our criminal justice system?

Although The Guardians offers a deep dive into the legal and criminal justice systems—laying out step by step what it takes to free an innocent man—it’s also a legal thriller. Identify literary techniques and devices that help characterize the genre in this instance, such as foreshadowing and pacing.

The book opens on a scene of Duke Russell preparing to eat his last meal. After Duke’s execution is paused, Post encourages Duke to enjoy his food, knowing he’ll be going back to prison grub soon. Examine the symbolic significance of the last meal. The author consciously chose to open the narrative on this moment. Why is it so poignant?