Title: To Kill a Mockingbird
Author: Harper Lee
Reading Recommendation: This is a book absolutely everyone should read–and savor.
My Reflection: This is at least my eighth time reading Mockingbird. It was by far my favorite book to teach; actually, it is my very favorite book. Ever. And I enjoyed this reading as much as all of the others.
I love the tone and style of the book. Every passage is full of distinct and vivid descriptions. Lee does an excellent job of letting us see this complex issue of racism through the eyes of an innocent child. I love the simple childhood scenes when the kids are obsessed with the neighborhood phantom, Boo Radley. And I love the way Boo Radley and Tom Robinson (the center of the racism plot) plot lines are woven together, literally, and symbolically.
I love the characters. Impetuous, tomboy Scout. Big brother Jem. Quirky Dill. The Boo Radley of the neighborhood legends. Cantankerous Mrs. Dubose. Wise Miss Maudie. But mostly, noble Atticus. Atticus may be my favorite character in all of literature–I only hope and pray that I can raise my children, and live my own life, with such integrity and wisdom.
I realize I have probably overused the word “love,” but I can’t help it. I truly do love this novel more than any other.
