Juror Number 2

"Sigel writes with compassion. If this were a real-life Twelve Angry Men, he'd be cast in the Henry Fonda role. The trial takes up the first half of the compact, engrossing work. The second half of the timely book is devoted to Sigel's 'search for why.' He skillfully puts a human face on the denizens of run-down housing projects, overwhelmed schools, and the police. There is hope in the vivid success stories of nonprofit organizations trying to break the cycle of recidivism. An absorbing account that will especially speak to advocates of social and criminal justice reform." Kirkus Reviews, July 2020

"Engrossing and engaging and so well written. It's such a gift that you show the humanity of the men who were caught up in the trial." Wendy Kopp, founder, Teach for America

"Truly compelling, impossible to put down. A powerful, powerful piece of writing." Max Byrd, acclaimed historical novelist

"This riveting story is far more than a courtroom drama; it challenges all of us to ask hard questions about our individual and institutional roles in influencing changes that can save and improve lives." Joseph Johnson, University Provost, San Diego State University and founder, National Center for Urban School Transformation

"Compelling and insightful, Juror Number 2 mesmerizes as it explores the intimate relationship between education and violent crime in New York's housing projects. Not to be missed."

-John Lescroart, bestselling author of 30 legal and crime thrillers including "The 13th Juror"

"From his unique vantage point as a juror in a murder trial, Sigel brings us face to face with the lives of young men in East Harlem─their fractured families, lack of economic security and access to quality education─who turn to gangs and crime. Yet his visits to housing projects, the NYPD, the schools, and social agencies show that success, if rare, is possible. Juror Number 2 is a clarion call to action." Patty Machir, executive director, Futures and Options