Wright Thompson's book, 'The Barn: The Secret History of a Murder in Mississippi,' intricately weaves true crime with themes of land, capitalism, and the enduring legacy of Emmett Till's lynching.

Dave Tell's exploration of Emmett Till shaped Thompson's understanding of the complex relationship between memory and history.

Sven Beckert's 'Empire of Cotton' provided Thompson with a framework to understand the economic context of the Delta, connecting it to broader themes of global capitalism.

Gloria Dickerson, a pivotal figure in integrating Drew, Mississippi schools in 1965, underscores the importance of local history in Thompson's work.

Katie Carter King was instrumental in organizing Thompson's extensive research, ensuring both accuracy and depth in the narrative.

Annie Wright, a key informant, enriched Thompson's narrative with personal connections and memories related to the murder.

The narrative evolved from Thompson's 2021 Atlantic story, 'His Name Was Emmett Till,' and has garnered praise as one of the best nonfiction works in recent years.

Rev. Wheeler Parker, who was present during Till's abduction, deeply influenced Thompson's perspectives on love and resilience amidst hate.

Thompson reflects on the personal impact of his family, particularly his wife, whose unwavering support was crucial throughout his writing journey.

Denise Wills and Eric Neel played vital roles during the editing process, enhancing the manuscript's clarity and focus.

David Black, Thompson's agent, is acknowledged for his steadfast support and profound understanding of Thompson's literary vision.

Devery Anderson's extensive research on Till's timeline significantly influenced Thompson's commitment to preserving the story's integrity.