I had to read this book for school though there is no doubt in my mind that I would have read it any way. What can I say about this book that hasn’t already been said? It is an instant classic and a story that has meaning and provides wisdom for today’s society. ‘To Kill a Mockingbird” is told through the eyes of Scout Finch (a six year old tomboy), her brother Jem and their friend Dill. During a summer of innocence we witness a struggling adult society through their childlike eyes. Scout’s father Atticus has been given the uphill task of representing a black man accused of raping a white woman. Even during this turbulent time Scout, Jem and Dill still manage to get up to mischief trying to spy on the local outcast Boo Radley.
This story deals with many issues including racial tension, family dynamics and the end to the carefree childhood of a little girl. This review does not do justice to the story. There are so many subtleties within the story and the plot that you can read this book numerous times and still uncover hidden treasures. The characters a very human and real, so you can relate. Everyone remembers a carefree, hot summer like the one in the book. Reading this will bring back your own childhood memories as well as experience those of Scout. Even if you don’t like this book you will be able to appreciate it not only for its story but also for its social commentary on a time long gone but not forgotten by many. I highly recommend this book so please if you get the chance read it. Don’t tell anyone I told you this but if you can’t be bothered reading the book at least watch the movie, Gregory Peck is perfect as Atticus Finch.

7 comments
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November 13, 2007 at 10:01 AM
Steve
Great book. I recently came across it while browsing through Poplaski’s 360 Degrees of Reading and remembered how much I enjoyed reading it. I’m currently reading the ‘Good Man of Nanking’, which I found while scanning through Poplaski’s book during my commute.
November 15, 2007 at 11:54 AM
Ole
I really liked the movie. I should read the book. Emphasis on “should”.
Ole
March 4, 2008 at 2:30 AM
misslionheart
I robbed this from Earthpals bookshelf! Will be reading it soon…
July 2, 2008 at 8:13 AM
Jeff
This book is one of my all-time favorites! I enjoyed your review as well as looking around your blog. Very well done. Great list of books as well…I’ve been meaning to do something similar and perhaps it’s time I do so. Hope you’re enjoying Crime and Punishment. It’s on my shelf to read later. I did enjoy Fathers & Sons by Ivan Turgenev last winter and recommend it as well.
August 13, 2008 at 2:22 AM
earthpal
Great book. A classic. Covers the racism issue with sensitivity and intelligence.
June 24, 2009 at 2:18 AM
Minh
This book is excellent but very confusing and plus there are too many characters to remember
November 22, 2009 at 5:58 AM
SULAIMAN P.M
To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee
I have purchased the book from seconds book store 10 years back.
A year back I purchased the DVD and saw the movie for 5 times .
The DVD is a collectors edition with special commentary.
After seeing the movie I started reading the book.
A fantastic book and a fantastic movie. I have never see such a clean hollywood movie in my life except some war movies like Guns of Navarone.
We can see the movie as many times without getting bored.
Sulaiman P.M